Greyhounds are wonderful animal athletes. As they race and perform through their racing careers, they normally work until they are between 1.5 and 4 years old. Throughout this time, they become accustomed to being walked and lead on a leash, so upon retirement from their profesional lives, they make excellent pets!
As a former athlete, they are smart, quiet, calm, clean, gentle, and all around good-natured and happy to adapt to a new home life. They respond well to positive attention and reinforcement and so they are a pleasure to train and work with for the new families they become a part of.
They love affection and while they do need exercise, they do not need as much space to run as people might think. Inside the home, they prefer to curl up in a corner on a soft rug. They are gentle creatures and very well behaved inside a house and around people.
Greyhounds spend most of their life with other dogs, trainers, and handlers, so they are very sociable breed and get along well with others. Their temperament makes them an wonderful breed to be near children. Their intelligence and dedication make them an excellent companion. And since they are well mannered, they are well behaved around company and in public.
There is certainly a local Greyhound Pets of America chapter near you. So think about adopting a former Greyhound athlete. For more information, check out the Greyhound Pets of America Tucson Chapter. Various clubs have different requirements and fees, but each will welcome you to come visit and find out more about whether a Greyhound might be right for you!
You can also help by volunteering your time. All local clubs need volunteers to help with funding, vet appointments, and even just shopping for doggie supplies. Of course, monetary donations are also welcome, but your time and love is needed most!
