How to Adopt a Retired Greyhound

Retired racing greyhounds, known as "40-mph couch potatoes," make excellent pets. Thousands of these wonderful dogs complete their racing careers between ages 3 to 5 and may face euthanasia if they are not adopted. Clean, quiet and exceptionally loving, a retired racer makes a perfect pet.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• A Dog Carriers
• A Dog Collars
• A Dog Dishes
• A Dog Leashes
• Dog Beds
• Dog Food
• Dog Shampoo
• Dog Toys
• Dog Treats
• Muzzles
• Pet Doors

1. Contact Greyhound Pets of America at [phone], or another adoption organization.

2. Ask for the location of a foster facility or someone who has adopted a retired racer and arrange a visit to see a greyhound "up close and personal."

3. Learn from your family's interaction with the dogs when you visit. Some dogs may be shy around children. Some children may not be comfortable around larger greyhounds.

4. Remember a dog is a new family member and brings its own special needs. Greyhounds, for example, need a low-protein diet and a special anesthetic if surgery is ever required.

5. Ask the adoption coordinator for an application. You can complete it immediately or schedule an interview with an adoption coordinator. People in greyhound rescue will want to know about your house and yard, and whether you have a fence. They'll want to know your "pet history" and about any other current pets. They'll want to know if everyone in the family is eager to adopt a retired racer.

6. Be frank with the foster agency about your home, your lifestyle and any other pets. If you travel extensively or if you have numerous obligations outside the home, you cannot be adequate company to a greyhound nor can the dog to you.

7. Prepare your house and purchase any necessary supplies like a crate or muzzle.

8. Be ready to pay a processing fee of $100 to $200 when adopting your new greyhound companion.

Tips & Warnings

• Greyhounds are shy and sensitive, but they are also inquisitive and love people.

• Introduce your new greyhound to other pets slowly.

• Greyhounds, used to being kenneled with many other dogs, may suffer separation anxiety. They often find a crate comforting.

• Greyhounds sometimes need a muzzle. They have been raised in a pack and exhibit pack behavior by nipping when they get excited or anxious.

• Keep greyhounds leashed when not confined to a fenced area. They have been taught to run when off-leash and few can break that habit.

• Because of the relative length of their back and legs, some greyhounds cannot sit.

• Greyhounds have thin skin and minimal fur - protect them from extreme weather.