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| How to adopt retired Greyhound racing dogs 2022 |
There are many points of controversy around Greyhound racing, from the way the dogs are bred and treated to the live bait that is sometimes used to lure them around the track. But perhaps the biggest source of debate is what happens to the dogs after their racing days are over. That question has intensified with news of track closures in Florida. In the state, which is currently home to 11 of the nation's 17 active greyhound racing tracks, thousands of homeless greyhounds will be looking for housing once the ban takes effect.
The history of what happens to retired or injured Greyhounds is a terrible one. Before the widespread involvement of humane groups, many Greyhounds were simply put down when they were no longer profitable on the racetrack. Others were sold to laboratories for experimentation.
There are no verifiable statistics today on how many non-racing Greyhounds are adopted compared to those facing less humane fates. But the tide has certainly turned in favor of rescue, and several organizations are working to help as many Greyhounds as possible find their way off the track and into a family home. If you're interested in adding one of these smart and sweet dogs to your family, read on for what you need to know when adopting a retired Greyhound.
What are retired Greyhounds?
There are certainly misconceptions about what retired Greyhounds look like. Many assume that they have uncontrollable amounts of energy or are aggressive. There is also an assumption that Greyhounds are no longer young and lively animals at the end of their racing days.
But fortunately, this is all wrong. Greyhounds are incredibly adaptable dogs that adapt well to household life and make fantastic family pets. Greyhounds are bred for speed (in fact, these boring, dull dogs are the fastest breed of canid in the world with the ability to reach speeds of up to 43 mph), but that doesn't mean The adopted Greyhound will be cruising around your house all day. They are notorious couch potatoes that take a good nap with their humans and run around the backyard.
For the most part, Greyhounds are known for their social personality as well as their companionship, grace, and gentleness. They do well in apartments and do not require exercise more than other dogs of the same size. Note, however, that retired Greyhounds should not be allowed to roam in unfenced areas, as their prey is still strong and they can be difficult to control once pursued.
Where (and how) should a retired greyhound be adopted?
If all of this sounds like a Greyhound is right for you, there are many organizations you can contact to adopt one. These include national organizations such as:
- Grey2K USA Worldwide
- Adoption of Heartland Greyhound
- Greyhound Pets of America
For a list of Greyhound adoption organizations by state, take a look in the National Greyhound Association adoption site.
The adoption process varies by organization. But unlike adopting retired TSA dogs or retired police dogs, there are many adoptable Greyhounds and you probably won't face a years-long waiting list.
To adopt a retired Greyhound, do further research to find out which organization you would like to adopt from. Then follow the process outlined on the adoption page. In most cases, you'll be able to browse the available dogs just like other rescue groups, and you'll be responsible for meeting some important requirements (these vary by organization, but usually include access to a veterinarian with greyhound experience). Rescue fees also vary but are generally comparable to what you would pay for other dog adoptions.
Expand your family with a rescued Greyhound
Retired Greyhounds have so much to offer their humans and require little in return from love, cuddles, and a cozy coat to keep them warm during the winter months. With so many needing homes right now and in the near future, you have the opportunity to make a big impact not only on the dog you adopt but for the breed as a whole.