Tell me what you think about my web site. I welcome all of your comments and suggestions. Also any greyhound stories. If you have any questions about homing greyhounds let us know, we'll either post an answer on the website or email you back.
Emails send to Sally
Hi Pat
Hope you're re-homing is going well. Ours is definitely picked up lately and I only have one pony left to find a home for at the moment!
Just thought I'd let you know how little sweetheart is getting on. The swelling on her shoulder has gone down and she is great on three legs at the moment! We only walk her to take her out for a wee etc. and, as I believe is true of most greyhounds,, she is a bit of a couch potato! She has a big duvet bed in the flat where she sleeps at night with Carla, our live in groom, a bed in my head groom's office (adjacent to mine) AND big bed in my office too! Spoilt eh? She loves to doze while I work at my desk and she also has the TV on which seems to settle her if I have to pop outside for a minute or two.
Yesterday (under my supervision!) she dozed in the office with all the three cats in their respective baskets also dozing the day away. She totally ignores them and, if anything, is a little nervous of Salem, our eldest cat who takes no nonsense from canines!
She's back at the vets in a couple of weeks for check up x-rays but I'm really pleased with her progress so far.
I have discovered Kiz loves having her belly ticked and rubbed, adores being cuddled and is a real little girly dog. I have two foster checks to do in Cornwall in September and usually stay there for a long weekend - guess who's coming with me this year??? She's a real "mummy's" girl, although she loves all the grooms too.
Kiz also gets on brilliantly with Darcey - who is currently having one to one dog training. Of course, at the moment, they are only allowed together for a short while on leads as he is so playful that we don't want him to hurt her shoulder by accident.
I've attached a couple of photos of Kizzy before she hurt her shoulder. The last one is of the little madam playing in a stagnant pond with Darcey (Well she's ladylike SOMETIMES!)
Thank you again for trusting me for caring for this beautiful, beautiful girl. I'm totally smitten!
Don't forget you are welcome anytime at all to come and see her.
Kind regards.
Sue
Allery
EHPPS
Registered
Charity No: 297893 -
Photo link
9/7/08
Hi Pat
Thought we'd drop you a line with some photo's of Peaches, we've renamed her 'Star' and she's settling in really well, her and Shadow are like best mates although he is obviously boss. She has mastered the stairs and sleeps at our feet every night.
Keep up the good work with your gorgeous dogs
Regards Roz,
Dave & Lauren Cunningham
7/7/2008
Hello Pat,
I wanted to just catch up and let you know how Sparkie is doing.
From the pic you will see that there is still a lot of life in the old
dog. He will have a little sprint if he feels like it but he is slowing
down a bit and likes nothing more than snoozing in the sunshine.
Nell is 3 years old now and Sparkie is her best doggy friend and very
gentle and patient with her. Although it was a sad way that we came to
adopt Sparkie we are all very fond of him and he has become part of our
family. Blue did not get the chance to have a long rest with us but
Sparkie thanks him very much for paving the way!
He is being spoilt in his old age, he is walked usually twice a day,
gets a tummy rub and ear scratch most days and even puts up with having
his (very few now) teeth cleaned. He is happy with his new bed and
blanket as he shredded the last one in disgust as it was not comfy.
His favourite treat is ham and he has been known to steal sandwiches
from carelessly unattended plates but he is a dear and we love him.
He is sitting at my feet now gently farting and burping after his
dinner. Just as well that my husband has better manners!
Kind regards to all at Greyhound Homer
Tanya, Rob, Phoebe, Calum & Nell
19/6/2008
Picture in Photo Gallery
Paws crossed we haven’t had any more territory marking since last we spoke, despite the upheaval of decorators, new carpets etc. to confuse a dog. Has settled down to a good routine waking at 06.11 without fail every morning. I get so much more achieved at the weekends with an extra 3 hours awake! He is pretty reliable on recall so is allowed off the lead in enclosed areas, but tends to come back of his own accord any way. Has developed an ability to spot squirrels in trees, is no trouble with other dogs and people being very happy to make new friends, cats may be a problem for him though. He is learning to fetch, he is about three quarters of the way there , he chases a ball, picks it up, but only brings it halfway back before he drops it and runs back without it! The Dog show is on the calendar, but can’t guarantee we will make it as I will have to get someone to cover my teaching on Saturday morning to get there. You will notice the difference as he has gained a little weight and his coat is growing back steadily, but his tail still looks a mess. Wait till next year when he will be best in Show!
We have also discovered that Beau will leap into the car boot for a marrowbone snack, but not otherwise! His stamina is building up steadily, and this weekend he and I will be ready to start jogging now I have recovered from the Marathon, half a mile in less than his normal walk should be enough to start with for both of us.
Peter
Sadly last May my father died followed three days later by our lovely little dog Twiggy. She was twelve years old and had been suffering from kidney failure for about six months. My mother and I were devastated, half the family had gone and the bungalow was just so empty.
Since I was seven years old we always had at least one dog in the household and I could not imagine the rest of my life without one. My mother was adamant; we could not have a dog in our present circumstances. I am a very badly disabled wheelchair user and she is ninety years old, virtually housebound with a serious heart condition. So I spoke to our vet who has known us for many years. He advised that, providing I could find a dog walker, he would have no hesitation in recommending us to have another dog and he felt an older whippet would be ideal.
The dog walker was found relatively quickly but a rescue whippet was not easy to come by. Everyone I spoke to started saying “Have you thought about a retired greyhound?” “Greyhound” said I “They are huge and must need a great deal of walking.” The some friends brought round a greyhound they had recently given a home to (Flossy, you will have read about her on this website). She was very gentle, just the right height for me to stroke from my wheelchair and apparently slept most of the time and did not need a lot of walking.
They gave me the Ipswich Greyhoundhomer telephone number and I spoke to Kevin who duly arrived on Friday evening last October to do a house visit. He was happy with our home situation, the enclosed garden and my walking arrangements but was worried that a greyhound might knock my mother over and for some reason felt something smaller might be better for us. I was sorry but understood his concerns and began to think my mother was right and I would have to forget the idea of another dog.
Three days later on Monday morning Kevin phoned me. He had been reconsidering his decision and there was an extremely quiet, gentle four year old dog at the Ockendon kennels needing a home and would we like to try him for a few weeks. I would have to decide quickly because he could collect him the next day but after that he would not be able to get there for some weeks! I gave the go ahead, much to my mother’s horror, who said he would be my dog and my responsibility.
Tuesday afternoon Kevin arrived with a rather timid, sad looking Trevor (now Barney). He had a lot of sores on his nose from being muzzled and a dull black coat. Considering the dramatic change of life these retired greyhound’s experience I think he settled in very well. From the beginning Barney has been the sweetest natured dog anyone could wish for but obviously we did have some “teething problems” which were made more difficult by my mother’s and my disabilities. During the first few months I did wonder if I had done the right thing, he seemed a little sad, was it unfair to have a dog in our circumstances? Initially he did not want to go out for walks but our walker has been magnificent with him and from the second day he knew our bungalow and wherever she took him he always led her back home.
Six months on what a difference, the same lovely gentle nature but now a happy dog who, although he does sleep a lot, when he is awake runs around the bungalow tail wagging. Our walker comes twice a day and he goes mad when he sees her. He loves going out and socializes with lots of dogs, in particular a very pretty whippet bitch that lives across the road from us; they often go on walks’ together.
Only one thing has not turned out as planned, he is not my dog but my mothers! Wherever she goes he follows. When she goes to bed at night he goes too and sleeps in her bedroom. In addition to the bed in her room, he has one in the lounge, next to her chair and one in my bedroom –only used occasionally!
My thanks go to everyone who has made this new and extremely precious addition to our family possible. Kevin and Sally, who were willing to give us a chance and who have been very supportive throughout. Our helpful vet who makes house visits so we can be fully involved in Barney’s condition and treatments. Our wonderful dog walker who comes twice a day rain or shine and all our carers who help look after him.
Barney had enriched my mothers and my life beyond belief and I trust and hope that he thinks we have done the same for him.
Judith Wood April 2008.
Photo's on Barney are in the gallery.
Hi Pat,
I'm sure you'll be snowed under with pictures today (pun intended!) but here are ours. I've included 4 photos and a short video of Sweepy doing circles - he is a funny dog!
They are both doing really well and get on great with each other. Sweepy has really good recall and we have lots of space to walk them both off their leads. Sweepy is almost unrecognisable as the nervous dog he was at first. Rosy will play with other dogs a little but much prefers the company of people.
I hope you are all doing well & the dogs are happy.
Take care,
Stuart & Andrea Voaden
6/4/2008 - Photo's on Photo page.
Hello Pat and Mary,
30/3/2008
Hi Pat,
Just to let you that Lottie (lakhill flame) has settled in really well & is now one of the family. She is really good with the cats & is fascinated by the hamsters. Her favourite game is emptying the logs out of the log basket and putting them in her bed. She loves playing in the garden with her new toys. We will send some photos soon.
Regards
Julie, Mark, Lucy & Sophie Ryde
25/3/2008
Hi Pat,
Just a quick line to let you know that Tenna and Twink seem to be settling in really well. They have already come to terms with our birds and chinchilla (Tenna seems to have taken it upon himself to tell Twink off if she goes near the cage), and made themselves at home on the sofa’s (I can only assume that for some reason these are deemed much more comfortable than the dog beds).
They do have minor disagreements occasionally, and the Rabbit is still quite a source of excitement, but things have so far gone better than we might have hoped.
We will update you again soon with some photos (once I’ve un-earthed our PC from the pile of junk currently in front of it).
Best regards
Simon, Tracy & Nathan Abbotson
Sally / Kevin
16/3/2008 - See photo's on the Photo's Page
Just wanted to give you an update on our lovely greyhound Georgie. He's been with us now for 18 months and we couldn't imagine life without him now!
He's always eager to please, has learnt to 'sit' (goes down on his front legs with bottom in the air!) and waits/stays. He loves meeting other dogs when he's out for walks with his 'sister' Lizzie the parsons russell and loves to run off the lead.
Thank you again Pat and Mary for introducing us to this wonderfully natured beautiful pet.
I have attached a recent picture of him and Lizzie sneaking a snooze on the sofa!
16/2/2008 - Picture on the photo's page.
Hi Sally,
23/1/2008
Hi Kevin & Sally
Just a line to wish you both a peaceful Christmas and a happy, healthy
and successful New Year.
Thank you very much for your card and newsletter. How exciting to make
the front page!
Flossy went to France for the first time 3 weeks ago. She absolutely
loved it. She adores the car, so the 9-hour journey was a real treat.
She settled into the house straight away and claimed the sofa nearest to
the woodburner. She loved racing around the garden, which is quite a
bit bigger than the Felixstowe garden she is used to. Watching the cows
through the hedge was a favourite pastime, but she couldn't quite make
out what these strange creatures were! She has made friends with the
local French vet who has to give her flea, tick and worm treatment and
stamp and sign her passport in the approriate places. He was fascinated
by her and thought she was a beautiful dog. Greyhounds are very rare in
France and he had never come across one before, so was very interested
and asked lots of questions. Coming home through Eurotunnel Pet Control
was very easy, much to our relief. We are going back again after
Christmas for a week and looking forward to taking her again. She is
definitely a country girl and loves the peace and quiet - noises
really bother her so rural France suits her very well.
2007 was a very good year for us and will always be remembered as the
year we became greyhound addicts and found our beautiful girl. She is
loved very much and makes us laugh all the time at the cute and
crazy things she does. We can't imagine how we managed without her.
Keep up the wonderful work and all the best with homing at least another
200 in 2008 !
Very best wishes
Murray & Elizabeth Branton
21/12/2007
15.12.07
Hello Pat,
Just thought I would send you a note to let you know how our two dogs
are getting on. As you know, Winnie ( Jimwontpay ) has been with us for
15 months and we couldn't have asked for a better dog. We are often over
at my parents house and Winnie thoroughly enjoys tearing round the
garden with their two retired greyhounds, Tigger ( Isatigger ) and
Starsky ( Star Bright ), but always sulks when we return home. We
thought long and hard and decided to get Winnie a new companion. So as
you know Mum and I came yesterday with Winnie, Tigger and Starsky. We
took Hollylodge Rebel out in the paddock with them and he mixed with
them and they all seemed happy with each other, so he came home with us.
Apart from Winnie being a bit possessive over the bed, they have been
brilliant together. I know it is very early days, but Ollie as he is now
called acts like he has been with us for longer than just a day, and so
far there have been no accidents. Our six children absolutely love him,
and he along with Winnie will be very spoilt this Christmas.
Thank you very much for all the advise and help in choosing two very
beautiful and loving dogs.
Happy Christmas to you all at Greyhound Homer.
Kind regards,
Clare, Mike, Jessica, Matthew, Daniel & Betty Ager,and our two foster
babies.
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Hi Pat We thought we'd send you some more photos of Sweepy and Rosy as Sweepy has really come out of his shell now - he is such a darling little dog. We took them on holiday to Wales with us and as there was lliterally miles of sandy beaches and no-one around we were able to let him off his lead - and boy did he enjoy it! The pair of them were racing around! At home, he is so much more confident and happy now - he plays with toys as well as with Rosy and us! He races up and down the stairs 4 at a time and now sleeps on the sofa rather than behind it! He gets a bit nervous though when one of our cats sits on the sofa too!!! At night, he always comes upstairs and sleeps by our bed. He is always very excited to see us when we have been out and his tail whips round like a helicopter! He loves dinner time best and bounces up and down to try and see what's in his bowl. It is so nice to get to know him and see him learning to love and trust us. Hope you like the photos - please put one on your website if you can! Thank you for two lovely dogs! Best wishes to you all, Andrea and Stuart Voaden 21/11/2007
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Hi Pat!
Just a quick hello to
give you an update on Sweepy. He's settling in
really well and we both adore him. We're taking
things very slowly with him and making sure we don't
fuss him too much - he's so darned cute though! Take care, Stuart & Andrea
Jodie 11/10/2007 Hi Sally
Just to let you know what a wonderful day we had in
Nottingham yesterday. Couldn't believe our eyes when we
arrived - overwhelmed by so many greyhounds in one place.
Just for a bit of fun we entered Flossy for 3 categories and
she came home with a rosette for each one! She was 3rd for
"bitch aged 12 months to 2 years", 4th (out of 71 dogs) for
"best visitor", and 3rd for "prettiest bitch". How amazing
is that? I think she actually enjoyed it toward the end of
the day, but was very nervous when we arrived - so many
people, which is not her favourite thing at all. Very nice
lady in the queue behind us who told us about something
called "Rescue Spray", a herbal remedy for people and pets
which you spray on the gums as often as required. It was
recommended by her vet for firework night etc. She gave
Flossy a shot and it made loads of difference - really
calmed her down. Will definitely look in Boots/Tesco
for some. I think I might be tempted to have a shot of it
too !!
I found her a raincoat on one of the RGT stands, so that was
a bonus too.
Best wishes to you both.
Elizabeth
For anyone who doesn't know Flossy, she was Kathy's Gem in her former life and was a rosette winner at the Great Greyhound Gathering, Nottingham. She was homed by Greyhoundhomer back in April 2007. She now lives by the sea with her new family including three cats. Hi We love the web site. We adopted He's a treasure nick name Red about 4 and half months ago and he certainly lives up to his name. He is a fantastic dog . You have a great kennels and do a brilliant job re-homing all these beautiful animals. Its great to see what's going on, we use the web site regularly to keep in touch but this is the first time we have made contact. Well many thanks for all your help and keep up the good work. From The Samson family26/8/2007
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Hi Sally & Kevin. Just letting you know that Bobby's really doing well and we have had no more trouble. He is a wonderful dog and completely different to the one we picked up! I am pleased we kept him and probably panicked. All the children love him and Austin has got his confidence back with him and handles him well. Ashley is not scared of him but remains cautious of other dogs which is probably a good thing. Bobby goes to the kennels tomorrow while we go away, I know he will be fine but I am sure he will miss us. Thanks for your help and to pat too for her advice. Amanda & family. 26/7/2007
On Saturday 21st July we adopted our first retired racing greyhound. We got "Sussy" from Elaine at the Bishop's Stortford kennels. I would like to thank Elaine and her husband for helping us choose the right dog for us. We are so happy with the new addition to our family. She is a beautiful creature. "Sussy" is very quiet (we haven't heard a single bark or growl) and she is so well behaved. I wish we had got into adopting years ago and I will be recommending it to friends! Lee Ellaway 26/7/2007
Dear Sally and Kevin, Just a little note to tell you how Domino is getting on. He's turned into a great big softy, who lets the girls boss him around unmercilessly, especially Hazel (the 3 year old). She loves throwing his squeaky bone for him, which goes and collects and brings back for her, well sort of. She can even take it out of his mouth. He will anything for a cuddle and sulks when thrown off the sofa so the humans can sit on it. He stands with his head on someone's lap demanding a fuss. Alan and myself are completely unable to move rooms without him following. He gets quite beside himself if one of us is upstairs and one is downstairs. It is lovely though if I go for a lie down and he follows to sleep on his bed next to the bed. He is the terror of the neighbouring cats though. I think a message has been put out by them all. Every time he goes for one I think of that movie cats and dogs (if you've seen it.) You said when we got him that you've never met a chewing greyhound.....well you have now. He's getting better, but he has destroyed one of my cushions, the middle bit and when he first arrived one or two teddy bears needed emergency surgery. Now he likes throwing them around, mainly to annoy the girls I think. (Doggy version of getting his own back.) No-one mentioned the mad 5 minutes everyday either as he runs at full pelt around the house. All the rugs in the house end up in a ball!! He loves the swing ball as well. You may very well see him on "you've been framed" hanging off a tennis ball attached to a bit of string! All in all he's ended up a well loved member of the Fairs household and as mad as the rest of us! love from Vicki, Alan, Frances. Georgie, Hazel-Ann and not forgetting Domino 9/7/07
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Dear Pat, Sorry we haven't been in touch, but Anna is doing very well, she has put on weight and is looking very healthy. We have also got another dog her name is Cara, she is a staff and is 12 weeks old. They both get on very well together and play all the time. Anna has only just started to come out of her shell, now she fetches the ball and loves frizbies. She's a great family dog and is very obedient . We (me and my daughter Sophie) just want too thank you for giving us an opportunity too have her as she is a wonderful dog and is loved very much. We also wanted too know how her brother is getting on we have been visiting the website regularly but we cant seem to recognise him! We hope to see you soon. Kim and Sophie Whitehead 9/7/07 |
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Dear Pat, Just a quick e-mail to let you know how Boglane Gift is getting on. She is now called Cindy. All the children put names into a hat and that is what got pulled out. Cindy is settling in brilliantly. She has had no accidents indoors and is fantastic with the children. My husband Ian is getting a lot of exercise. He is taking Cindy out four times a day for about twenty minutes a time and they both seem exhausted when they get home. The first night she didn't want to be left alone and Ian ended up sleeping downstairs with her. They had a settee each!!!!! Last night we left a radio on and a night light and when we went downstairs this morning she was still where we had left her asleep the night before. It has only been three days but she is already a part of the family and we couldn't have asked for a more perfect dog. We are so glad that we took her home. She had a shower last night as the bathroom is being refitted. I ended up having to get in the shower with her to give her a good wash. I dont think she really liked it but didn't put up a fuss. She let the children brush her and then went straight back to her spot on the settee. Will be in touch again with some photos for you and thanks again. Nikki & Family. 23/6/2007
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Dear Pat and Mary, Just wanted to write a note
to let you know how Connie (Confident Fort) is doing. At night time Connie and our other dog Lucas (a lab x ) sleep in our bedroom with us. Connie got very upset at night time so we decided to let them up with us. Its nice though because we get to have a lie in at the weekends, as they don't get up till we do! Lovely! Connie is a beautiful lady. She is gentle and loving and we are so pleased to have her. All our friends tell us how lovely she is. Thank you for all your support when we were having trouble with the house training. Your advice and encouragement were most appreciated and very helpful. We are thinking of entering Connie in the greyhound show at Stifford. She is still a bit nervous sometimes and we don't know how she will react to the amount of people. Will give it a go! Now we have had a greyhound, we would definitely have another one day, and we encourage our friends to adopt one too. Hope to see you at Stifford, so you can see our beautiful
lady.
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Dear Sally
We have had Spud (racing name Run Dee
Ohgee) for 7 weeks now and he has settled in really well.
Thank you so much for letting us have him and a big thank
you to Elaine at the Bishop Stortford kennels who has helped
us so much with advice. At first he was really unsure of
how to get up and down a flight of stairs but now there is
no stopping him. He is such a softie and has discovered a
new game of chasing my 2 year old daughter Sophie around the
garden and nudging her gently when he catches her and then
waits for her to chase him around. He likes nothing better
than lots of cuddles from all of us particularly Sophie and
will sit with her on the floor while she shows him her books
and toys.
My son Tom decided at the weekend to give
him a bath as he got very muddy when we took him for a
walk, all four of us crammed into the bathroom and got very
wet but he seemed to enjoy it especially when the shower
attachment was used to wet him as he was trying to drink the
water that came out of it.
Once I have worked out how to download
the photos we have taken of Spud I will sent you some - most
of them are of Spud asleep as it is the only time they can
be taken because if you try when he is awake he trys to eat
the camera and all you get is close ups of his nose and
mouth.
Once again thank you so much for letting
us have him.
Sarah, Nigel, Tom and Sophie
1/6/2007
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Hi there my name is Madey, was known at the race
track as Gloomey Day, been at home now for five months. Loving life again, learning to be a dog, my owners think I am very mad that's why they call me Madey. My house mate is a nine year old Jack Russell called Toby. We have a love hate thing going on as he is all ways barking. 15/5/2007
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Hi Mary and Pat
Thought I would
give you a two week progress report. Things are going well.
Daisy and Tommy quickly got the hang of stairs (Daisy a bit
slower, I had to carry her down a couple of times before it
clicked). we have had a couple of accidents with them weeing
on the carpet but not too bad. they love the garden, Daisy
especially. She is constantly on alert for squirrels and
guards her territory keenly.
As Anne said to
you on the phone, they tend to stick to us like shadows, me
particularly, but that is easing slightly. They relax on the
sofa with the children and us in the evening and don't jump
up every time Anne or I leave the room.
Mornings they
wake up at 5-30. we have got them to lie in till about 6-30
when we let them out (they join us on the bed and quickly
have grown to like that). Daisy whimpers a bit but I think
that, like a toddler, once it is light she is up and wanting
to do things (check for squirrels). Food wise things are
fine.
We bathed them
last Saturday so they have now lost that kennel smell. we
have some lovely photos which I will send on to you when I
upload them to the computer.
All in all I
can't believe we have only had them for two weeks as they
have quickly become part of the family.
Will let you
know how things are going.
Thanks, Keith
9/5/2007
Dear Sally Kyle the photo's are in the Photo Galley
Dear Pat and Mary Well, we've had Lou for three months now - how the time has flown. I'm happy to say that she's settled very well. She's the fourth in our series of rescue dogs and is the most contented of the lot. At the moment she's lying upside-down on her duvet with all four feet in the air looking as comfortable as can be. Blue is on his duvet in much the same position! Though she started off very quiet we've since seen Lou's personality really come out - she's very cheeky and a real character. She has taught Blue to bark and to defend the house. No-one can teach them anything about relaxation! I think he's benefited from having a more lively dog to play with - they're quite a pack now; she's obviously enjoying all the luxuries that a house can provide. We've enrolled both in the dog school at Billericay and are taking them to the Greyhound obedience classes every other Saturday. It's a bit of a trek from where we live but I think it's good to take them to a class with other greyhounds. They're as good as gold in the class - if only they were that obedient in the park! We virtually pass by your door to get to class - we must pop in to see you one day (though we wouldn't want to distract you from your vital re-homing work). If we do pop in I must not leave with another dog - Lou and Blue are enough of a distraction as it is - I could watch them all day! So, a happy start for Lou - long may it continue. Regards Sue 23/3/2007 |
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I have a couple of photo's of Nipper who came home with us in November last year. He is a gorgeous soppy dog that the whole family love - he loves to have hugs! When we are out for walks he gets no end of attention, and for a non chaser he certainly likes to give the rabbits and pheasants a run for their money!
Anja Schmalfuss
March 2007
White Hurdler -Reggie
Just a short note to let you know how Reggie is getting on. I apologise for not having written earlier as I'm sure you've been wondering how he is.
Firstly, I thought you said he wouldn't chase!!!! Did you try ducks? He has certainly decided that ducks are worth chasing as we have a pet one at home (in a run thankfully) and both he and Blondie are determined they are going to have him for dinner one day. I have to put him away in his night hut before I let them out otherwise they worry the life out of the poor thing. I'm hoping the novelty will wear off eventually but I don't think it will. Not to worry just gives me a bit more organising to do.
He has settled in very well now. He proved to be a little difficult to house train but we're finally there. Being a recently castrated dog he had been determined to scent mark anything he possibly could - including some kindling my husband brought in! With regard to the dog flap, we initially had to take out the plastic flap bit which obviously just left a rather large drafty hole, which to poor Reggie was very scary too, and he had a very peculiar way of using it. He used to put his front legs through and then bunny hop the back end through - very funny to watch - but has now got the hang of it. We have finally convinced him that the dogflap won't bite him if he pushes it with his nose and therefore finally managed to put the dog flap back togehter and have a warm house again. He really is a very timid/reserved dog and never pushes himself forward for cuddles etc. but we make sure he never misses out. He did at first like to growl at Blondie if he was eating or she got too close to him when he was in his bed or playing with his toy(s) whereupon we let him know it's not acceptable behaviour. He is now much better and is getting better at ignoring her and we haven't heard a growl for about 3 weeks now. I think its just because he's afraid she'll steal his possessions from him.
Two rather sweet things he does is to 1) steal the flannel from the edge of the bath and put it in his bed- never chews it, just likes it in his bed and 2) he loves taking my slippers and puts them in his bed with him - so far he hasn't damaged anything though he obviously just wants to have our things close to him.
He now knows that if we pat his bed and say "bed" we mean that he should lie down on it (doesn't always do it of course). He is just starting to respond to his name and will come when called occasionally - a reward is always given of course. In the garden that's a different story and more training is required as he will "cock a deaf 'n' " and we have to go fetch him, so it will be a while before he is allowed off lead on walks (and to be honest if at all as they have a large enough garden to chase about in when off lead). Reggie has earned himself the nickname of "Pooh" as he is SOOO laid back and being a big square dog it just seems to suit him. Blondie. the bitch we re-homed at the same time, on the other hand has earned herself the name of "Tigger" as on her first sight of a deer she literally turned herself inside out trying to get at it, leaping in the air and bouncing on her back legs with her front legs in the air. The pair of them are like chalk and cheese as she is very bold and pushy.
Whilst writing I am taking the opportunity of returning the collar and lead which came with him (he only wore it about 4 times). As we have purchased another new collar and lead for him, we thought you would appreciate the return of set which came with him so that you could use them again for another dog going home - it's not much but hopefully will go a little way towards saving you some money.
I'm afraid to say that they are not at all spoilt. They have both been micro-chipped, just in case. They only have a bed each in the hall and also a bed each in the lounge and they each have a Denta Stix when I leave for work in the morning. I like to give a treat as I'm leaving as that way dogs actually look forward to you going out. Well it worked for our last two as they would actually bounce around trying to get rid of you as quickly as possible so hopefully that will also be the case for Reggie and Blondie and I do think it's starting to happen because as soon as my coat goes on they are ready and waiting by the 'treat cupboard'. Of course they also get other healthy treats when they've been good etc. too.
I will let you have some pictures of them in their new home when my husband Colin has had chance to download them to our computer. I will of course try and keep you updated on their antics.
Yours sincerely
Carol Abrehart.
March 2007
27/2/2007
27/2/2007
I dont mind if you put it on the forum or what have you.
Thanks, Laura x
21/2/2007
Good luck to all my fellow Greyhounds hope they all find loving homes. xxxxxxx
24/12/2006
Vinnie and I are thinking of taking on a fellow greyhound in the New Year. Vinnie has had a fab year and has now managed to grow his collection of cuddly toys to 20!! god know where they will all sleep if he gets any more from Santa! We enjoyed a holiday in Ireland in September where he spent most of the day running into the waves on the beach. He is a real super boy who has captured the hearts of many. We took part in Sport relief run a mile which was great fun.
We look forward to any suggestions
Luv Annette and Vinnie(countrywide Mean) x
21/12/2006
Thank you all for re-homing Baby Mustang for us, she seems very happy.
I would like to wish you all a Merry Xmas and a very Happy New Year.
Keep up all your good work in 2007.
Loads of thanks to you all
Helen & Stan xx
20/12/2006
23/11/06
We have good fun with Ginger always learning, always getting to know what she likes {not much so far food wise}. Whywe did not have a greyhound before I will never know, and thanks to Pat for helping us so much .
We will be going to Rainham on 02/12 /06 to seePat again.
Paul
Hornchurch 7/11/06
Theo has settled in remarkably well with Moxie and our 4 cats and a tortoise. he was initally scared at going up the stairs but he now has mastered that and is fully at home now. We would like to thank your Team and particularly Pat for all the help and advice in obtaining Theo as a non chaser who is getting used to having cats around.
Best wishes
Nancy & David
Southend 7/11/06
Would just like to thank you for your helpful advice since we brought Hard Rock, Billy home. He has settled really well and is very happy and content. We are seriously considering having a friend for Billy so we may be visiting you again soon. Once again thanks so much.
Debbie Hooker.
5/11/06
We have now had Socks for 4 months and he has settled in really well, he is a lovely natured dog and so easy to look after, when people meet him for the first time they are amazed how calm and gentle he is. My husband has done a big turn around with him, he was dead against me having a greyhound but I insisted, now he talks to him, plays with him, walks him and buys him pigs ears and Socks just loves him.
Socks has made such a big difference to our lives we feel very privileged to have him. I can honestly say I love every minute of every day I spend with him.
June Skippings
4/11/06
Jay has really settled in well, that dog certainly loves his cuddles!!! He's started to use the sofa (his and ours) as a second/third bed and loves nothing more than snuggling up with his Mum for a cuddle and stroke..... He's also eating a lot better and we have had a go at letting him off lead with my sisters dogs in a very remote spot that we sometimes walk in (with a muzzle on just in case!). He was really good and stuck with the girls for the whole walk. He's a super dog, really suited to our family. No messes in the house, no crying at night and at weekends doesn't seem to mind that his first walk isn't till about 9.30. I think he chose us really but thanks again for your help in finding him.
Jac
22/10/06
Here are a few photo's of Chippie and Sophie, as you can see he has really taken over our lifes. Sophie, my lab, is a different dog, now she has a new lease of life. My garden as you can see from the photo is worse for wear, them two have just destroyed it, but for all the happiness and love we receive in return they are worth it.
I cannot believe it is a year since we got Chippie, it seems like yesterday since we came to view him( I must say its the best thing we have ever done).
Anyway just a quick update, write to you soon.
Love and best wishes
Angie + Family, Chip, Sophie and all the other animals.
12/10/06
Dear Pat and Mary
Just to let you know all is going really well with Reilly - Sid (our black dog) has given up moaning at him and almost accepts that he is staying!!
I spoke to your husband Pat about Reilly going nutty at other dogs - and it took one day of very firm 'no's' and the about half a gallon of water sprayed at him and he is now the perfect dog!! Even walking with yorkie's etc (still with muzzle) but just quick sniff and then walking on with them!
Just got to sort out the very occasional wee in the house and that's it - perfect dog !!! Well almost - perfect dog would bring me a cup of tea in bed!!
Thanks once again and hope that all went brilliantly with the Christening and Wedding !!
Many thanks
Best Wishes
Jane and Alan Smith
11/9/06
Dear Pat,
We brought Wright Ellie home on Saturday (we are now calling her Viva)
and she's already settling in really well. She's getting on brilliantly
with her new 'brother' Midas - no fights at all, they're happy to share
a bed and seem to enjoy each other's company.
She hasn't weed in our house once! Whereas Midas cocked his leg on
everything when we first brought him home! Viva seems to know
instinctively that she has to go outside.
She's a lovely friendly, affectionate and easy-going girl, I think
she's going to fit in perfectly with our lifestyle.
The only problem she had was with the stairs - she seemed very wary
of them at first and didn't want to go up on her own. However, with one
of us standing behind her and the other placing her paws on the steps,
she soon learnt what to do, and this morning she went up on her own for
the first time.
She's great on the lead, she sleeps through the night, we have left
her and Midas alone for a couple of hours and they've been absolutely
fine - and both greeted us with tail wags and nuzzles on our return!
All in all, we're really happy with her and I'm sure she will
become a much-loved member of our family. So thanks to you for helping
us choose her, and also to her former trainer/ owner. She's a brilliant
dog and definitely the right choice for us.
All the best,
Mel, Iesha, Midas and Viva.
24/8/06
Nicola, Felixstowe
19/8/06
I just thought I'd drop you a line to let you know how we are getting on with Mo (Mamma Jo).
She settled in really well although was very nervous of things like the ironing board. She was unable to use the stairs. But she was house trained very quickly without any accidents (except on first going to work with me and having an accident on my office carpet!).
We have had a few little problems due mainly to us being too careful. She got a grass cut on her foot when racing around the garden - we took her to the vet who must have thought we mad! As she has only got front teeth we have had fun finding food that would not upset her tummy but didn't require a lot of chewing.
Everyone loves her and today whilst going down the stairs from my office (taking Mo for her lunchtime walk), a lady was coming up the stairs with her lunch and had a rather lot of things. However, she put everything down and proceeded to give Mo a good stroke.
Whilst she will chase cats and squirrels, she can be let off the lead in the park and never runs too far from us. She always comes back and really enjoys her walks. Though I have taken her to obedience classes, the lady is a greyhound lover and doesn't expect too much of her (sitting especially). She does suffer from selective hearing!
She particularly like to pick up socks, gloves, hats and creep back to her bed with them! She doesn't chew then but seems to want to collect things.
After 6 months she is now confident in most all situations, has been on holiday with us to Cornwall where was able to run in the fields and go to the beach.
I will send some photo's once I get round to finishing off decorating my study!
Best regards,
Paul
11/8/06
Just to let you know Georgie is settling in really well with his new family. He's met his 'cousins' today which he was really excited about. He was a bit quiet and very nervous the first couple of days but he's really coming out of his shell now. We have had lots of laughs with him. He's once conquered the stairs but not willing to repeat it!
Anyway, I've attached some pictures. More to follow shortly. Emily received her picture today of Tigger, thank you.
10/8/06
Photo's on the photo's page.
This is my e-mail address so you can keep us updated and vice versa. Remus has been such a good boy since we've taken him home, he was a bit of a pain in the car and wouldn't lay down but simply stood with his back legs on the back seat and his front through the centre over the gearstick! Ha!
He has only done his business in the garden, had his bath, his flee/tick stuff and eaten all his dinner. He has been round my mums and got on fine with her two dogs racing round the garden (she has a very large garden) at high speeds! His pads have bled a little after but it didn't seem to bother him. My mum put some antiseptic (bonjela I think or something like that) and they seem fine. Maybe they are not used to it and need toughening up a bit? It wasn't his whole foot just the heal bit? He has been fine through the night, I think he was totally exhausted and just slept.
All in all, for his first day he's been amazing and touch wood he will only get better as he continues to settle in.
Adam and Hayley.
8/8/06
Hi Sally and everyone,
Thought I
would drop you a line and let you know how Vinnie
is getting on. We have had a very busy last few months and he is really
proving to be a super-star dog!! We went off to the seaside last
month( the joys of air-conditioning in cars
).He had a wonderful paddle and enjoyed chasing the waves – me in tow!!
Then we stopped at a café where the lady gave him his own plate of
sausages cut up –lovely.
Collegues at my work place took
part in the Sports Relief run a mile in Birmingham… and
Vinnie and I entered
He had his own racing number and was admired by all, A lovely family
came to chat and told us they were thinking of taking on a fellow grey
and they took your details – I hope they get in touch.
He also was an official coarse steward at a horse event a
few weeks back …he had a whale of a time and was even issued with his
own official tabard (photo attached). Every time the whistle blew he
quickly learned a horse was approaching and stood at the ready!! Luckily
we were stewarding the water jump and river
crossing so there was water to play in in-between work and lots of
children and pats.
It is now nice to see him racing around our fields as he has
established what his name is and obediently coming back when called…. He
really is a lovely boy
Annette and Vinnie
25/7/06
Long time since I last emailed you, glad to see the new re-homing is going so well, I am always looking at the website to keep up to date. Will you tell Pat that ugly dog we adopted from her last year won 5th. prize in best rescued greyhound at a fun dog show last Sunday in aid of greyhound compassion!! Annette Crosby was one of the judges, she tried hard not to be biased not easy being a greyhound owner herself. It was just a bit of fun and Magic really enjoyed it, he is doing great and would like you to know he has nearly knocked his new owners into shape. We are taking him on holiday soon to Norfolk, lots of beaches etc. Had to buy a roof box for all his gear to go in! Our regards to you all maybe we can make it to one of your events
In the future.
Janet & Graham.
10/7/06
Hi Sally and Kevin
Just to let you know Kilteen have settled in really well, he gets on really well with Jasper and the kids love him, I have got one photo for you, my camera have broken so I have to get another one ,I made them a St Georges flag coat to keep them cool and to get into the football mood, I will send the photo to you it was taken at Bramford church yard, well I best go, thought I just let you know how Kilteen is. He is lovely, take care from
Bea and Mark, Kilteen's mummy and daddy xxx
25/6/06
Hello
Thought I would drop you a line with a photo of Countrywide Mean ( Vinnie).He has been an absolute star – I think before too long he will be responsible for finding homes for more Greys in the area!!
He has been to his first Horsey event and was impeccably behaved and got loads of pats from passers by and he loved playing in the water jump!!
Any events we would love to come along to.
Good luck in your wonderful work
Annette and Vinnie
22/5/06
I would like to thank Pat and all her help mates in homing my dog Sad face.I have seen a photo of her in her new home and she looks really happy.
I would like to wish every one good luck for your new web site.
Helen
9/4/06I would like to give all my support to Sally and Kevin I think they do a wonderful job with homing greyhounds and think they have been badly treated by the Harlow track owner. Wwe have a wonderful dog called Cassie whom we absolutely adore and it is thanks to them that we have her so give them all your support.
Wendy Sturmey
27/3/06
Hi hope all is well with you & Kevin.
Just thought we would let you know that Floppy (Dromana Lomber) has really settled in well & become very much loved in the village!! He is now let off the lead for a few minutes on his walk & does not stray far from us. We are attempting training, getting him to return when called. He loves walking with other dogs & when I am walking with friends he comes off the lead & stays with his friend for that walk!!
6/2/2006
Hello and a very Happy Christmas,
I was so pleased to have your lovely card and address. I wanted to let you know what a great dog Posh is. She settled straight away and everybody loves her to bits, she’s so gentle and affectionate and I could not wish for a better dog. She has made us all so happy especially me. No trouble at all with feeding her, she eats literally everything she is given and a lot more that she hasn’t been given eg (as well as her own meals) my dinners- pinches sandwiches, apples off the trees, blackberries, sticks of celery! Marigolds, bulbs nasturtiums sweets out of my pockets, digs up potatoes carrots, takes up most of my bed, my chair, I have to sit on her bean bag, Oh yes, the latest since lighting the fire is would you believe coal!! I could go on but you might think I'm grumbling and I am not, she is forgiven everything because she doesn’t touch the post, or chew slippers or touch any of the toys, not even the fluffy ones and above all is so jolly sweet tempered. With all she eats she remains as thin as could be and I call her macaroni legs. T
Thank
you for keeping in touch and I’m so glad to be able to tell you what a
big success this has been 10/10.
All the best for the New Year and I will send a photo when the sun comes
out again.
Very sincerely Mrs Holloway, owner of Posh (Posh Kim)20/12/2005
Here are some photo’s of Star at home. He is settling in very well. As you can see he loves a juicy bone. He is used to the cats now, and they can all sit and sleep in the same room together. He loves his walks, especially on the beach and he loves his food. We hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I enclose a £20 donation for Harlow Retired Greyhound Trust and hope that all the dogs in the kennels will find caring homes soon.
Best wishes for 2006
From Carol, Daniel and Star (I'm a Superstar) 20/12/2005
9/12/2005
Dear Dick & Pat,
Hope you like the enclosed photos. We are getting on really well with Magic and now after four weeks we feel he is responding to us and is understanding what is required of him which makes him more secure and happy with his new home and life. Each time we take him out for a walk somebody will stop us and admire him, they always want to know all about him and his history, we have never known a dog to inspire such interest before and of course Magic just laps up all the attention and holds his head up very proud. Yesterday my sister visited us for the day and brought her two collie dogs, we all had a lovely day as the dogs got on so well and enjoyed the company.
We are so pleased with Magic he is such an endearing gentle soul with so much love to give to everyone he meets. Yes he is very different from our German Shepherds but slowly and surely he has wormed his way into our hearts as only a dog can do. Graham wakes up smiling in the morning because Magic is there nose to nose! On the surface Magic appears to be a skinny delicate creature but as you both know underneath there is a strong, powerful athlete which is the true Greyhound and we just love that contrast.
You are both doing a great job endeavouring to find these lovely creatures a home and in our small way we are spreading the word on their behalf. Magic sends you his love and thanks for finding him a home, we all hope to see you soon at one of the get togethers, until then.
Our very best wishes
Janet & Graham Tack 20/11/05
Hi Pat
Thanks for your e
mail. I had been meaning to write for ages, but always something
crops up, so great to hear from you at work where I can sometimes
catch up with correspondence !
Nelson is fine, he seems to have settled in really well now , he is
king of the settee, and apart from the never ending problem of
having to hide ALL food, he doesn't cause any problems in the house.
He is really well behaved as he is on his own for three days a week,
and my neighbour says she never hears him ! I think he sleeps all
day. He has learned about toys and loves the soft chewy ones with
squeakers, and he will catch a tennis ball.
We take him for long walks most days up to Richmond park, or
Wormwood scrubs and he runs around chasing squirrels etc, He is now
really well socialised with other dogs and if we meet other
greyhounds they will race in an imaginary circle which is really fun
to watch. He is very good at coming when called, and in the woods he
just runs back and forth as we walk, never going too far away. He
even went swimming before the weather got colder ! He saw some
retrievers playing in the ponds and after a bit, just joined in and
had a great time. He will also retrieve a stick from the pond which
amazed us.
Everyone adores him and he is a great ambassador for retired
greyhounds, he will go shopping along the high street with us and we
get stopped all the time by people asking about him .
He is the most gentle ,affectionate dog and we are so glad we took
the plunge. In fact if we often wish we could have another one, and
I'm sure in my retirement I will end up with a few !!!
He saw the Vet last week, just as a routine and all was well , He
does seem to suffer from diahorrea, but the Vet said some do, and
its just one of those things, do you have any tips?
I will try to get some photos off to you, But I hardly ever get near
the computer at home!
Hope all is well with you, we were amazed at the numbers of
greyhound homed this year , well done.
Thank You again for all your help, and for introducing us to the
wonderful world of retired greyhounds, Nelson is such a part of our
lives now, and has brought so much fun and affection to our family,
Very best wishes,
Karen
Dear Sally and Pat
Just thought we'd write in to let you know how Pineview Whizz, our 6-year-old boy who is now called Billy Whizz, is getting on. A big, huge thank you to Pat for her infinite patience, and always being willing to listen and give great advice - Pat, you are a star! We had as much to learn as Billy did, and we couldn't have done it without her.
The first night we brought our boy home was, erm, trying, to say the least. After a long day of panting and pacing and a wee on the floor (not his fault - we should have let him out into the garden from the kitchen, rather than from the kitchen into the dining room), we had a terrible first night - he cried like a squeaky wheel, and at one point started to howl. At 4am, I just couldn't take it anymore, despite being told by numerous people not to go to him, as it would create a rod for our own backs. So I went downstairs and slept on the sofa, and he finally settled and went to sleep within five minutes of my arrival. I rang Pat in a sleep-deprived, emotional state the next morning, and she assured me that it was unlikely he'd give us a second night of all that racket - and she was absolutely right. Not a peep out of Billy on night two, and he slept in his new bed quietly.
A couple days later, we left him on his own for a few hours. The neighbors said he cried, but after a few weeks, he soon realized that we always come back, and that it wasn't so bad, being able to sleep on his bed, or on the sitting room rug in the sun, and our neighbors assure us there isn't a peep out of him anymore. Plus, he gets a peanut buttery Kong or a pig's ear just before we go, so I think he sometimes looks forward to our departure now! That saying, there's nothing like being greeted after a day at work by an ecstatic dog with a tail going like a propeller - you feel like you're getting a hero's welcome, and all you did was pop to the supermarket!
Billy, being a kennel dog through and through, needed some intensive work on 'mine' and 'yours' on the food front - he quickly learned that it was not okay to put his paws on the kitchen counter; nor was it okay to steal a piece of salmon off our 5-year-old's plate. But he's a fast learner, and nothing some basic 'mine' and 'yours' training with treats, as well as the scolding sound 'ahh ahh' didn't solve - within two weeks, he didn't give our food another glance.
He absolutely loves his two walks a day, and, as Dick rightly pointed out, he would pull on the lead initially until he settled into his walk.
We've worked with him on this by simply refusing to walk when he pulls, and he hardly ever pulls anymore (that is, unless he's desperate to wee on a tree, and fair play to him).
He enjoys laying about in the garden, and even runs a couple of laps every now and then, which is an amazing sight to see - what a beautiful creature he is. Some poor cat made the mistake of wandering into a bush in our garden, and popped out of the bush and ran, just after we let the dog out (we didn't see the cat). A dog and cat chase ensued, and the cat's saving grace was that Billy ran smack into the shed, thus allowing the cat to escape up the fence. He's fast, but a bit clumsy. Guess that cat won't be returning anytime soon. (In defense of poor Billy, we regularly walk past cats on the street, and he doesn't bat an eye; the problem was, this one was running away!) Billy has been to doggie school - five Saturdays, and it's improved his manners - and our knowledge of how to work with the new member of our family - immensely. He will now come, sit, lay down, and wait upon command (well, most of the time, and a bit slower than other breeds - he'll only sit in places that he's certain he's not going to slide around). When we try to get him to go outside for a wee late at night before bed, and we call him, he, being sprawled out on his bed, just lifts his head and looks at us like we're completely mad. Sometimes we win this battle of wills, sometimes we don't.
He is an extremely affectionate dog who loves a pat and a cuddle, and to have his velvety neck rubbed. His personality description on the HRGT website was, 'he just wants to be your friend', and that was spot on.
Billy is a pleaser, and a bit of a sensitive flower, and he just wants to know he's doing the right thing.
It wasn't a breeze settling in, but you know what? It was completely worth it, and he's a member of our family that we really love, and we would fully recommend a greyhound as a brilliant family pet. Our daughter loves him, and said, 'He's made our family happier.' She's absolutely right. (I find myself entertaining the idea of a girlfriend for Billy ... uh oh, I've got the greyhound fever ...)
Michelle, Sam and Georgina Patient 6/11/05
Dear Pat
Just to say I saw Chippie on the Harlow Family Page (Chippie said it’s nice to be famous).
Chippie is doing great and even Sophie seems to like him better now, mind you Chippie is so cheeky and copies everything Sophie does, if Sophie drinks so does he. It even gone as far as