RETIRED RACERS MAKE GREAT FAMILY COMPANIONS:
 Families across the nation have discovered the joy of bringing retired racing greyhounds into their homes as companions. These intelligent, calm, and graceful creatures are gentle with children, eager to please, and very affectionate. They thrive on love, attention and human companionship. If you are looking for a pet that can return all the love you can give it, adopt a retired racer. |
SOME GREYHOUND HISTORY:
 Greyhounds are one of the oldest pure breeds known to man. In fact, an ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic bears a striking resemblance to the modern greyhound. Some believe that the word greyhound is derived from the Old English words "grei," meaning dog, and "hundr," meaning hunter. Others believe that "greyhound" originated from "gaze hounds," meaning to hunt by sight rather than smell. Originally bred as hunting companions, greyhounds have long been held in high esteem. English law from the 11th to the 14th century decreed that only noblemen could own or hunt with greyhounds. The Arabs so admired the greyhound that it was the only dog permitted to share their tents and ride atop their camels, and only the birth of a son outranked the birth of a greyhound. |
SOME FACTS ABOUT GREYHOUNDS:
Retired racers are usually between two and five years old. With proper care, the greyhound enjoys a life expectancy of twelve to fourteen years. Greyhounds are house pets. Greyhounds are "kennel trained." Although greyhounds are racers by nature, they do not require a lot of exercise, but they do appreciate regular walks and an occasional romp outdoors. Because greyhounds have been bred to scan the horizon and run after anything that moves and because retired greyhounds have no knowledge of hazards such as traffic, barbed wire, or wild animals, they do need to be exercised on a leash unless they are in an entirely enclosed area.
While racing, greyhounds are on a special diet, but when they retire, greyhounds do very well on four to six cups of kibble (dry dog food) per day. Because they are used to socializing with other greyhounds in the racing kennel, greyhounds do well with other dogs. Cats, however, are usually unknown to the greyhound. Extra time and patience may be needed to help the two become acquainted. While racing greyhounds are initially inexperienced in many aspects of family life, they are smart and learn quickly and will master household challenges in no time at all. |
ADOPTING A RETIRED RACER:
 Greyhounds are a very special breed. They are "people dogs" destined for "dog people." For this reason, the adoptive families are carefully selected. People interested in adoption must fill out a screening questionnaire and participate in a personal interview. Our goal is simple: to place good dogs in responsible, loving homes. Greyhounds placed as pets will be spayed or neutered, have a heartworm test, and have all vaccinations updated. The adopting family must pay a small fee to help cover these costs. |
A BIG SUCCESS:
Since opening day, there has been a great deal of interest in the adoption program, with over 1,700 greyhounds being placed in loving homes. Families, singles and retired persons have all found that their adopted greyhounds have become wonderful family members.
One of the highlights every year is when the adopted greyhounds return with their new families to greet old friends and make new ones. Many of the greyhounds dress for the occasion. It is hard to tell who enjoys themselves more, the greyhounds, the families, or the adoption staff! We always look forward to the next year's reunion, and we hope to continue placing many more greyhounds in homes during the coming years. |
MAKE A DECISION THAT COULD CHANGE YOUR LIFE:
 Visit with us in the adoption office located at the entrance to Gulf Greyhound Park and meet a retired racer. Please consider seriously the adoption of a greyhound, as your new pet will require a degree of commitment and responsibility. But if you're ready for a loving addition to your family, a retired racer is the perfect companion! |
Gulf Greyhound Park Adoption Reunion Parade - November 2007
Greyhounds below are available for adoption to loving homes!
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