The greyhound is an ancient breed of dog and can be traced back to Biblical times in Egypt, Persia and the Middle East. It is one of the purest breeds and for centuries greyhounds were bred to hunt by sight and by outrunning their prey. They were originally brought to America by western farmers to stem crop devastation by jack rabbits and other pests.

Neighborly competition among farmers was the forerunner of modern pari—mutuel racing. The greyhound is the fastest breed of dog, achieving speeds in excess of forty miles per hour over short distances. As racing expanded, people lost sight of the value of the greyhound’s outstanding qualities as loving companions.

Today, the greyhound is bred for one purpose only . . - to be a racing greyhound and make money for its owner through a successful racing career. The dog racing business in the United States is a money only consideration business. The average greyhound will spend its first year with its siblings and then start several months of “track” training. By a year and a half, it should be ready to race. Its “prime” will last until perhaps age three.

Please look at these statistics:

• Only 60% of greyhound puppies ever get a chance to race.
• Of that number, less than 40% will survive two years.
• An estimated 40,000 greyhounds are put to death each year simply because they are not fast enough or are past their prime

Look at who and what a greyhound really is:

• A greyhound is a magnificent breed of dog, simply beautiful in its graceful conformation and regal bearing.

Today’s “track” greyhound is the following:

• Highly intelligent. Very gentle and non—aggressive.
• Makes the very best of pets.
• Very appreciative of a new, non—abusive home.
• Affectionate and friendly by nature.
• Very quiet (rarely barks). Good—natured with children and other pets.
• Makes the perfect companion.

A greyhound is not for you if:

• You don’t want to be loved.
• You want a “watch” dog. Greyhounds will only watch!
• You don’t want a dog who adores you.
• You don’t want a clean, quiet animal in your life

The NATIONAL GREYHOUND ADOPTION PROGRAM has been in existence since 1989. Since that time, it has found homes for over 4700 greyhounds which would have otherwise been put to death. I personally have five of those dogs, first of which I adopted in January of 1991. I can tell you that I would never again be without a greyhound in my home.

I have had many dogs over the years . . . all of whom I have loved dearly. But — until I got to know a greyhound, I didn’t know what canine love could be. Tiger and Cisco are my “babies” you are meeting here. They are the largest and smallest of the breed. They are my pride and joy — precious family additions who ask for nothing more than an occasional hug and perhaps a ride in my truck once in a while. In exchange for that, they promise not to chase the nineteen cats and fifteen various fowl they are forced to live with.

PLEASE . . . if you are considering adopting a new dog, think about the greyhounds. It will be a decision you will never regret . . . and I know you will fall in love with them as I have. Please feel free to email me to discuss the ins and outs of greyhound adoption at director@wildliferescue-pa.com.

The adoption process was started by a wonderful human being named David Wolf who organized the National Greyhound Adoption Program and he can be reached at (215) 331—7918. With enough education of the public and enough awareness of what fantastic pets greyhounds make, we may be able to put a dent into the horrific lives and early deaths for which these dogs are destined and offer them the loving homes of which they are so deserving.