Greyhounds Are Pussycats Who Need Rescue
By Teresa Ambord
If ever there was a misunderstood animal, it is the greyhound. Because of their racing background and their size, people hesitate to adopt them, assuming that they need acres and acres of running space. Not true. What is true is that there are far too many greyhounds in need of loving families, and too few people opening their hearts and homes.
If you’d like to rescue a terrific animal that might otherwise suffer an untimely end, you should know the facts.
The Truth About Greyhounds
Greyhounds vary in size from about 50 to 85 pounds, and have a nearly endless variety of colors. They are lean, clean, graceful, and muscular.
What makes Greyhounds so clean?
- They have almost no hair, so shedding is minimal
- There is very little oil in their skin, as a result, very little doggy smell
- Because of their lack of hair and smell, Greyhounds often make great pets for people with allergies.
Even though large, Greyhounds have a unique ability to curl up in small places like cats. What they like best is often a nice, soft bed and a long nap. They are good-natured and gentle, and they make great apartment or condo pets, and wonderful companions. They tend not to bark much, and if they do, it’s usually to tell you something, rather than barking for the fun of barking.
They enjoy exercise like any dog. A good long walk two or three times a week will usually do. Just make sure it is in an enclosed area. If you take them out of the enclosed area, keep them on a leash. They are “sight hounds” and they will run if they see something interesting.
They were trained to sprint and can go from a dead stop to speeds over 40 mph in three strides. You probably won’t be able to catch them, but take heart. They get distracted easily and will usually stop to sniff the pavement or something else of interest.
Around Children
Just as with any dog, an adult should supervise when children are around. But greyhounds are gentle, sensitive animals who are generally good with kids. If play becomes too rough, the greyhound tends to walk away rather than become aggressive.
What About Other Pets?
Greyhounds usually live in harmony with cats, but the introduction should be made slowly. Ask your adoption agency for specific tips. Some agencies, like the Greyhounds Unlimited (listed below) has foster homes where dogs can be cat-tested, before an adoption is made. As for other dogs, greyhounds generally don’t recognize that they are the same species. Greys may be curious, but that’s about it.
Greyhound Owners
The greatest fans of Greyhounds are those who own them. They’ll tell you that their Greys sometimes sneak naps on the couch, with all four feet straight up in the air. Greyhounds are full of personality, they adore their owners, and they are big loyal pussycats who just want a soft bed and an owner with a loving heart.
