Over the weekend Dan and I went to Petco to pick up food in bulk for our beasts. This is usually a monthly trip since 3 cats and a Gilly can go through some serious food. I always end up buying more then I plan to since I can't walk by the toy section without picking something up, so it's probably a good thing I don't go more often.
As Dan and I were heading in, a woman was on her way out walking a beautiful tan greyhound(pictured above). As they passed I noticed the dog only had three legs. For those who don't know me... I love all animals...but I am the first one in line to adopt the odd animal out, the runt, the ones that nobody else would want. I turned to Dan with my usual "Awwww" that is reserved for any animal within eyesight as he ushered me into the store.
Much to my excitement when we entered I immediately saw that it was a rescue day! Off to the right of the store was a table and fenced area with about 5 dogs and people milling around. Dan tried to steer me away (if not for him we would have adopted every animal under the sun by now) but he was unsuccessful. I headed over under the pretense of wanting to donate money (which I did) but also to see the dogs and learn about the cause. The rescue group turned out to be Greyt Expectations Greyhound Rescue a non-profit organization that helps find retired racing greyhounds homes.
Some of the dogs there, including the one we had seen, had lost limbs due to breaks they sustained while racing that didn't heal correctly. They got around though, and appeared to be happy dogs unfazed by their condition. I spoke briefly with one of the volunteers who was fostering Ripley, the dog we had seen. He said that Ripley did great with other dogs, cats, and had even mastered stairs (although they would prefer placement in a home without). And surprisingly I learned that greyhounds are actually big couch potatoes... a perfect match for me and Gilly!
Unfortunately we left Petco with only our pet food and a brochure on Greyt Expectations. I am still trying to convince Dan that Gilly would love to have a brother, but so far no luck. However, they do have many lovable dogs up for adoption and anyone looking to add a dog to their family should definitely check them out. Their website provides information on the breed, tips, and other helpful information.
There are tons of homeless animals out there so even if a greyhound isn't for you I encourage everyone to always adopt through a local animal shelter or rescue group. When you buy from pet stores and breeders you take away a chance at a home for a shelter animal and possibly it's life.
Aww... how great. I hope some of those dogs found good homes that day. I don't plan to get a dog until the kids are older but I do plan to adopt from a shelter or the humane society. I think it is great to give animals a home who have gone without.
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