STOP...BEFORE YOU ADOPT!
Before sending in your application, please STOP and take a moment to seriously consider what you are about to do. Going Home Greyhounds does not encourage impulsive decisions to adopt and wants you to realize that a dog is not a "trial run" item. Greyhounds are a sensitive breed and need treated accordingly. They get attached to people quickly (especially if you do not have other pets) and should be considered a family member, not a passing conversation piece. Don't feel you are doing the dog a favor by giving it a home. There are fates WORSE than death for any dog, including a life of isolation, neglect, or abuse.
All breeds differ in personality, but none have had the previous lifestyle of a retired racing dog. Greyhounds have been bred to chase WITHOUT question or the need for human direction. Under no circumstances can your greyhound be trusted to stay in your yard without a leash if it is not completely fenced. A blowing plastic bag, running squirrel, or the neighbor's cat seen across the street can be a fatal discovery. Considering they can reach their full speed (42-45 mph) within 2-3 strides is why they can never be put on any type of run. Greyhounds have a very low percentage of body fat, which makes them susceptible to extreme weather changes (hot as well as cold), joint problems if not given thick enough bedding, and superficial injuries when playing or running.
The top #1 reason to adopt: For total COMPANIONSHIP!
Three things to carefully consider:
- You are making a 10-year commitment (including daily sacrifices).
- Are you willing to work through a transitional adjustment period that may last a few months or longer?
- Financial aspect (vet care, feeding expenses, accessories, etc.)
Ten reasons NOT to adopt:
- Because you feel "sorry" for the breed.
- If your grass and carpet are more important to you than the dog (you will have an accident at some point and a running greyhound can take divots out of your lawn).
- If you work or are gone long hours and can not come home in a reasonable amount of time to let a dog out.
- Because it's the "popular" thing to do and you like the way they look.
- If you are looking for a watchdog.
- If you believe it is acceptable for this breed to live outside.
- Because your kids are pestering you for a pet and your neighbor's greyhound seems "calm".
- For your son to have a wrestling partner.
- If all family members are not in agreement to adopt and willing to take an active part with the dog's care.
- To give as a Christmas gift. This is why GHG does not hold organized adoptions from mid-December to mid-January.
Our screening process has been designed to combine book knowledge and personal experiences. The greyhound is a wonderful breed, but not right for everyone. Researching the breed and making an effort to take time to get acquainted personally with these dogs at our Meet and Greets will help you make a wise decision about adoption.
If you are interested in adopting a Greyhound, then:
Click here to complete the adoption application online.
Click here to print out the application (PDF format, for users with Acrobat)