There was a very festive feel at the kennels today - chocolates galore for the kennel-hands and volunteers, and lots of treats for the dogs.
Many of the dogs were in impish moods, with kennel-clown Josh giving me a slobbery dog-kiss (URRRGH) on the nose when I was least expecting it. I wouldn't have minded, but I hadn't even been walking him. He's such a cheeky so-and-so these days.
Little Topsy was as sweet as ever, and demanded several hugs as we went round the usual circuit through the paddocks. Then at the end of the walk she decided she needed a big cuddle before she went back to her kennel.
I'm sure I looked a little odd, sat down, with Topsy's front paws on my lap and her chin resting on my head.
I am now going to take a few days off, and will probably not post again until the New Year.
No such luck for the kennel hands and helpers at the rehoming kennels - there's still dogs to be fed and walks to be had - so they'll be in as normal on Christmas day and Boxing day. I'm sure lots of volunteers will visit as well. I really hope one and all will have a very Merry Christmas.
Wednesday 24 December 2008
Monday 22 December 2008
The other top dog spot is filled
I think my search for favourite dogs is complete - for the time being.
I've decided that I'm going to try and walk Joe and Topsy every time I go to the kennels. They are a lovely pair and really nice to walk together.
I've got a soft spot for Joe, because he's just such a scare-dy cat (or dog, if I was being totally accurate).
Topsy is full of life and really cheeky. However, the most endearing thing about her is the way she greets you.
Some of the dogs jump up and put their paws on your shoulders out of sheer exuberance when they first come out of their kennels. If you're not expecting it, it can knock you backwards. You quickly get to know the very exuberant dogs and you just learn to BRACE yourself.
Topsy is different. She comes out of her kennels quite quietly, fixes you with her gaze, and then, gently, hops up onto her back legs, and carefully places her front paws on you.
There she stays looking lovingly into your eyes until you remind her that a walk would be lovely and - nice as the cuddle is - we really are not going to get very far like this.
I've decided that I'm going to try and walk Joe and Topsy every time I go to the kennels. They are a lovely pair and really nice to walk together.
I've got a soft spot for Joe, because he's just such a scare-dy cat (or dog, if I was being totally accurate).
Topsy is full of life and really cheeky. However, the most endearing thing about her is the way she greets you.
Some of the dogs jump up and put their paws on your shoulders out of sheer exuberance when they first come out of their kennels. If you're not expecting it, it can knock you backwards. You quickly get to know the very exuberant dogs and you just learn to BRACE yourself.
Topsy is different. She comes out of her kennels quite quietly, fixes you with her gaze, and then, gently, hops up onto her back legs, and carefully places her front paws on you.
There she stays looking lovingly into your eyes until you remind her that a walk would be lovely and - nice as the cuddle is - we really are not going to get very far like this.
Friday 19 December 2008
Shawn's new girlfriend
Shawn has a new girlfriend. Pretty was rehomed several weeks ago, and now a new gal has moved into Shawn's kennel.
I don't think it's going to last. Kelly is an absolutely stunning blonde bombshell. She's confident and gorgeous, ditzy and sweet. She'll be rehomed within weeks.
Kelly is just really lovely and will temporarily fill one of my top girl spots. (I like walking Shawn with his partner anyhow). She - hopefully - will be such a great greyhound ambassador.
She's so happy to go and say hello to everyone. She was quite keen to give the mechanics in the garage that is close to the kennels a hand when I walked her. (Most dogs are a bit unsure or scared of the garage). As she left, all the mechanics had a massive grin on their faces - yes she'd worked her charms within a few seconds.
I don't think it's going to last. Kelly is an absolutely stunning blonde bombshell. She's confident and gorgeous, ditzy and sweet. She'll be rehomed within weeks.
Kelly is just really lovely and will temporarily fill one of my top girl spots. (I like walking Shawn with his partner anyhow). She - hopefully - will be such a great greyhound ambassador.
She's so happy to go and say hello to everyone. She was quite keen to give the mechanics in the garage that is close to the kennels a hand when I walked her. (Most dogs are a bit unsure or scared of the garage). As she left, all the mechanics had a massive grin on their faces - yes she'd worked her charms within a few seconds.
Wednesday 17 December 2008
Shawn's a really good boy (thank goodness)
Dogs from the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels are always walked on the lead.
This is the case for a few reasons - some of the dogs have never been "formally" walked before, and they need to learn how to settle on a lead. Some of the dogs are nervous and would bolt if not on the lead, at least until they get to know you.
Others would shoot off into the distance at the first sight of something to chase. Finally some of the male dogs don't get on, and you need to be able to control them if they start to argue with one another.
I sometimes have nightmares about dropping a lead, or not picking up a lead properly, but thankfully I've had no problems... until today that is.
Last walk of the day was Shawn and his lovely new girlfriend (I am going to tell you all about her in another post - watch this space). She was very sprightly out of the kennels, however I grabbed the leads, and was out of the kennel gates and walking up the lane - Shawn happily trotting by my side - when I looked down, and to my horror, saw that his lead was loosely draped over his girlfriend's lead. I almost fainted!
Thank goodness for lovely Shawn being such a nice boy to walk, as I tightly wrapped BOTH leads round my arm, he looked up at me and continued trotting happily by my side muttering "You know me, I wasn't going anywhere, me".
This is the case for a few reasons - some of the dogs have never been "formally" walked before, and they need to learn how to settle on a lead. Some of the dogs are nervous and would bolt if not on the lead, at least until they get to know you.
Others would shoot off into the distance at the first sight of something to chase. Finally some of the male dogs don't get on, and you need to be able to control them if they start to argue with one another.
I sometimes have nightmares about dropping a lead, or not picking up a lead properly, but thankfully I've had no problems... until today that is.
Last walk of the day was Shawn and his lovely new girlfriend (I am going to tell you all about her in another post - watch this space). She was very sprightly out of the kennels, however I grabbed the leads, and was out of the kennel gates and walking up the lane - Shawn happily trotting by my side - when I looked down, and to my horror, saw that his lead was loosely draped over his girlfriend's lead. I almost fainted!
Thank goodness for lovely Shawn being such a nice boy to walk, as I tightly wrapped BOTH leads round my arm, he looked up at me and continued trotting happily by my side muttering "You know me, I wasn't going anywhere, me".
Monday 15 December 2008
Cat testing... by mistake
There was a bit of cat testing by accident at the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels today.
I was out with the first dog of the day - a shy black boy called Joe, who I hadn't walked before - and lo and behold, sitting on a woodstack, in the middle of the small field was a tortoise-shell cat. Either a very foolish, or a kamikaze, tortoise-shell cat.
I approached the woodstack with Joe, fully expecting the cat to rush off. As Joe approached he stared, the cat looked haughty, then Joe jumped out of his skin... and... hid behind my legs.
The cat continued to look haughtily at us, and Joe shook as we walked past the woodstack. He had obviously decided that the cat was a completely terrifying creature.
The next dog I took out was Joe's girlfriend, Topsy. Amazingly the cat was still in the small field. Not for long though. Topsy took one look at the cat, and decided to chase. I luckily had her on a short lead, so the cat made her escape into the undergrowth.
The next two walks were feline-free - unfortunately so with Nicky, because I'd love to see how he reacts. (If he was well-behaved around the cat the husband may allow me to foster Nicky for a few days).
Last walk of the day was daft-old Shawn. I saw the cat darting along the path a few yards ahead of us, tail in the air. Not sure Shawn noticed though - as Mr Dopey-draws didn't react at all.
I was out with the first dog of the day - a shy black boy called Joe, who I hadn't walked before - and lo and behold, sitting on a woodstack, in the middle of the small field was a tortoise-shell cat. Either a very foolish, or a kamikaze, tortoise-shell cat.
I approached the woodstack with Joe, fully expecting the cat to rush off. As Joe approached he stared, the cat looked haughty, then Joe jumped out of his skin... and... hid behind my legs.
The cat continued to look haughtily at us, and Joe shook as we walked past the woodstack. He had obviously decided that the cat was a completely terrifying creature.
The next dog I took out was Joe's girlfriend, Topsy. Amazingly the cat was still in the small field. Not for long though. Topsy took one look at the cat, and decided to chase. I luckily had her on a short lead, so the cat made her escape into the undergrowth.
The next two walks were feline-free - unfortunately so with Nicky, because I'd love to see how he reacts. (If he was well-behaved around the cat the husband may allow me to foster Nicky for a few days).
Last walk of the day was daft-old Shawn. I saw the cat darting along the path a few yards ahead of us, tail in the air. Not sure Shawn noticed though - as Mr Dopey-draws didn't react at all.
Friday 12 December 2008
Coat mystery solved
The mystery of Emma's strangely coloured thick coat has been solved. I thought that she was a bit of a two-tone girl (chocolate AND blue), and Lita from the Greyhound Awareness League has kindly dropped me an email with an explanation.
Here's the answer:
"I just wanted to reply to your questioning of Emma's chocolate colour fur and the thickness. From my experience greyhounds that are kept in outdoor kennels have what we call 'kennel coats', which is a thickening of the fur (to keep warm).
"When these hounds begin to live indoors in a warm environment, they begin to cast this old coat of fur (which can even come out in tufts and clumps) over a period of a few months.
"In the case of black greyhounds, the kennel coat can be a reddish/brown colour until cast off, and underneath the new fur is black and shiny. It can be an amazing transformation!"
I shall watch Emma with interest and let you know if she begins to shed her coat - I'll be very excited to find out what colour her hair is underneath the thick brown kennel coat. I suspect she'll be blue, but it looks like there's a very good chance she could be another black girl.
Watch this space... that is if she isn't rehomed in the meantime.
Here's the answer:
"I just wanted to reply to your questioning of Emma's chocolate colour fur and the thickness. From my experience greyhounds that are kept in outdoor kennels have what we call 'kennel coats', which is a thickening of the fur (to keep warm).
"When these hounds begin to live indoors in a warm environment, they begin to cast this old coat of fur (which can even come out in tufts and clumps) over a period of a few months.
"In the case of black greyhounds, the kennel coat can be a reddish/brown colour until cast off, and underneath the new fur is black and shiny. It can be an amazing transformation!"
I shall watch Emma with interest and let you know if she begins to shed her coat - I'll be very excited to find out what colour her hair is underneath the thick brown kennel coat. I suspect she'll be blue, but it looks like there's a very good chance she could be another black girl.
Watch this space... that is if she isn't rehomed in the meantime.
Wednesday 10 December 2008
Why GREY hounds?
This is a question that has troubled me for some time. Why are greyhounds called GREY hounds?
Wolfhounds and deerhounds are both named after their original purpose - that is, respectively, they were bred for hunting wolves and deer.
Before I'd spent much time with greyhounds I assumed it was because the hounds were grey. However I've long since learnt that they can be almost any colour under the sun, but very few are grey. And those that look grey in colour are actually officially termed 'blue'.
So where 'greyhound' came from is a bit of a mystery - a quick search on the internet showed that the name has its roots in the mists of time.
The greyhound is an ancient breed, and the common consensus is that the name comes from the Old English word grighund. Hund is the precursor to the modern day hound, and apparently grig has no modern day derivation, but does refer to dogs in old English.
However - as fascinating as the roots of the breed name are - I'd like to propose another reason for breed name. Ever noticed, just like us, how older dogs get white hairs on their chin, and the real OAPs have white faces? Yep, that's why I think they are called greyhounds.
Wolfhounds and deerhounds are both named after their original purpose - that is, respectively, they were bred for hunting wolves and deer.
Before I'd spent much time with greyhounds I assumed it was because the hounds were grey. However I've long since learnt that they can be almost any colour under the sun, but very few are grey. And those that look grey in colour are actually officially termed 'blue'.
So where 'greyhound' came from is a bit of a mystery - a quick search on the internet showed that the name has its roots in the mists of time.
The greyhound is an ancient breed, and the common consensus is that the name comes from the Old English word grighund. Hund is the precursor to the modern day hound, and apparently grig has no modern day derivation, but does refer to dogs in old English.
However - as fascinating as the roots of the breed name are - I'd like to propose another reason for breed name. Ever noticed, just like us, how older dogs get white hairs on their chin, and the real OAPs have white faces? Yep, that's why I think they are called greyhounds.
Monday 8 December 2008
It's official: Dogs have feelings too
Scientists from Vienna have just published research, which confirms something that every dog owner already knows, that dogs have feelings too.
Apparently they are prone to all sorts of emotions including jealousy, envy and pride. Having walked dogs from the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels I'd add joy, love, laughter and mischief to that list too. (Probably all emotions at the same time in the one dog when it comes to Spark).
Fear, as well unfortunately, as we have lovely dogs like Larry who start their lives in the rehoming kennels terrified. However after months of love and kindness in kennels, a nervous dog will start to come out of himself or herself and slowly blossom.
I'm also sure that dogs can become depressed. Take Josh for instance, he's now the clown of the kennels, and a completely different character than the one that first came into the kennels.
One of the most prevailing emotions I get from the dogs at the kennels is love and affection though. There's nothing better than the first time a shy dog greets you - often by putting their front paws on your shoulders - or takes a treat from you after weeks of work trying to make them more secure. Then you really know you've made a difference, and that this hound is well on their way to a new home.
Apparently they are prone to all sorts of emotions including jealousy, envy and pride. Having walked dogs from the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels I'd add joy, love, laughter and mischief to that list too. (Probably all emotions at the same time in the one dog when it comes to Spark).
Fear, as well unfortunately, as we have lovely dogs like Larry who start their lives in the rehoming kennels terrified. However after months of love and kindness in kennels, a nervous dog will start to come out of himself or herself and slowly blossom.
I'm also sure that dogs can become depressed. Take Josh for instance, he's now the clown of the kennels, and a completely different character than the one that first came into the kennels.
One of the most prevailing emotions I get from the dogs at the kennels is love and affection though. There's nothing better than the first time a shy dog greets you - often by putting their front paws on your shoulders - or takes a treat from you after weeks of work trying to make them more secure. Then you really know you've made a difference, and that this hound is well on their way to a new home.
Friday 5 December 2008
Top girl search begins
I wrote last week about how I needed to find some new favourites at the local retired greyhound rehoming centre, because my two top dogs had been rehomed.
With Nicky back in kennels until after Christmas, I actually only need to find a new favourite girl, and the search started in earnest today. I didn't get very far because it was FREEZING, with intermittent sleet showers, and instead of doing my usual 5 circuits with 5 different single or pairs of dogs, I only did three.
I did, however, meet the beautiful Emma. She's shy in kennels, but a cheeky little so-and-so - always demanding cuddles and tickles - once you take her out for a walk.
She's the oddest colour I've ever seen on a greyhound. At first you think that she's a blue (grey) and then you get a bit closer and she actually looks quite chocolately. She's also got quite a thick coat.
I've done a quick search and can't find out an equivalent colour on the greyhound websites - so if anyone has any idea on her "official" colour please drop me a line.
Anyhow, I'll definitely take Emma out next time I visit the kennels - however, I've still to decide whether she'll fill the "top girl" spot.
The reason is she is one of those dogs that's quite "keen", with a well developed chase instinct, and one thing I like from my favourites is to be able to daydream that I might be able to take them home with me. We have two cats - and I don't they'd have a very peaceful life with Emma.
With Nicky back in kennels until after Christmas, I actually only need to find a new favourite girl, and the search started in earnest today. I didn't get very far because it was FREEZING, with intermittent sleet showers, and instead of doing my usual 5 circuits with 5 different single or pairs of dogs, I only did three.
I did, however, meet the beautiful Emma. She's shy in kennels, but a cheeky little so-and-so - always demanding cuddles and tickles - once you take her out for a walk.
She's the oddest colour I've ever seen on a greyhound. At first you think that she's a blue (grey) and then you get a bit closer and she actually looks quite chocolately. She's also got quite a thick coat.
I've done a quick search and can't find out an equivalent colour on the greyhound websites - so if anyone has any idea on her "official" colour please drop me a line.
Anyhow, I'll definitely take Emma out next time I visit the kennels - however, I've still to decide whether she'll fill the "top girl" spot.
The reason is she is one of those dogs that's quite "keen", with a well developed chase instinct, and one thing I like from my favourites is to be able to daydream that I might be able to take them home with me. We have two cats - and I don't they'd have a very peaceful life with Emma.
Wednesday 3 December 2008
Friends Reunited
Shock! Horror! I got to the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels today to find that Nicky was back in kennels.
I was relieved to hear that he hadn't misbehaved on his home trail - in fact according to all reports he acted impeccably. However, the family who want to take him have decided that they can't take him until the New Year.
This means that he's back off reserve - in case someone else falls in love with him in the meantime. If not he already has a loving home to go to.
Now, I just have to persuade the husband that we really need to foster this lovely boy over Christmas. I'm sure Nicky would LOVE turkey.
I was relieved to hear that he hadn't misbehaved on his home trail - in fact according to all reports he acted impeccably. However, the family who want to take him have decided that they can't take him until the New Year.
This means that he's back off reserve - in case someone else falls in love with him in the meantime. If not he already has a loving home to go to.
Now, I just have to persuade the husband that we really need to foster this lovely boy over Christmas. I'm sure Nicky would LOVE turkey.
Monday 1 December 2008
For the love of dogs
One of the great things about walking dogs from the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels is that you often get to meet, and chat with, people who are considering rehoming dogs.
I love this as it gives me a chance to enthuse about greyhounds to people who are more than willing to listen and that want to pick your brains. And it's great to support potential rehomers by giving them another perspective on the dogs in the kennels.
What's also interesting is to hear their experiences of other non-greyhound rehoming centres. The tales they've given me make me think that, in my totally biased opinion, our local kennels are brilliant.
There are usually 50-60 dogs in the kennels at any one time. This is a relatively small number and gives the kennel hands, and volunteer walkers, a chance to get to know the personality of many of the dogs. In turn this gives a real insight into the sorts of homes that each dog would be happy in.
What seems to be most appreciated by the potential rehomers is that they also get a chance to walk a number of dogs when they visit.
Brilliant because they can see how wonderful greyhounds are on the lead, how comical they are, and - yes, canny, canny, kennel hands, we know your game - fall hopelessly in love with at least one of the dogs.
I love this as it gives me a chance to enthuse about greyhounds to people who are more than willing to listen and that want to pick your brains. And it's great to support potential rehomers by giving them another perspective on the dogs in the kennels.
What's also interesting is to hear their experiences of other non-greyhound rehoming centres. The tales they've given me make me think that, in my totally biased opinion, our local kennels are brilliant.
There are usually 50-60 dogs in the kennels at any one time. This is a relatively small number and gives the kennel hands, and volunteer walkers, a chance to get to know the personality of many of the dogs. In turn this gives a real insight into the sorts of homes that each dog would be happy in.
What seems to be most appreciated by the potential rehomers is that they also get a chance to walk a number of dogs when they visit.
Brilliant because they can see how wonderful greyhounds are on the lead, how comical they are, and - yes, canny, canny, kennel hands, we know your game - fall hopelessly in love with at least one of the dogs.
Friday 28 November 2008
A bit more about allergies and greyhounds
Quite a few people seem to have come to this blog to find out more about why some people who have dog allergies are not allergic to greyhounds.
There seems to be a lot of myth and misinformation around dog allergies - and the cause of my dog allergy is still a bit of a mystery to me.
I discovered that I wasn't allergic to all dogs several years ago, when - to my initial horror - I found that I had to spend Christmas in a house with a dog that was, at least partly, Irish wolfhound. He was certainly Irish wolfhound in size and had a wiry coat, however, he definitely was a bit of a mix of other breeds. Probably several. And a total loony.
No-one had warned me, I had no asthma inhaler or anti-histamines with me (the anti-histamines don't tend to work for me anyone), and all the pharmacies were closed for the festive season. To add insult to injury the next door neighbour's poodle seemed to spend most of her day lounging around with the Wolfhound. I resigned myself to a miserable Christmas.
The allergies never appeared, and I spent most of the holiday either tickling the Wolfhound, or sitting with the poodle staring mournfully into my face, begging for cuddles.
Since starting to walk greyhounds from the local rehoming kennels it also seems that I'm not allergic to these dogs.
I've recently discovered that greyhounds and poodles have something in common - they both have just a single coat. Most dogs have a undercoat underneath their top-coat, so I think it may be this undercoat that I'm allergic to.
However there seems to be no rhyme or reason to the dogs people are allergic to - a friend's son is OK with golden retrievers. I am not. Wheaten terriers are often named as good dogs for those with allergies. I come in bumps when I touch them.
So, the only advice I can give to those looking for a dog that will not trigger their allergies is spend tons of time with different breeds. And don't forget the anti-histamines.
There seems to be a lot of myth and misinformation around dog allergies - and the cause of my dog allergy is still a bit of a mystery to me.
I discovered that I wasn't allergic to all dogs several years ago, when - to my initial horror - I found that I had to spend Christmas in a house with a dog that was, at least partly, Irish wolfhound. He was certainly Irish wolfhound in size and had a wiry coat, however, he definitely was a bit of a mix of other breeds. Probably several. And a total loony.
No-one had warned me, I had no asthma inhaler or anti-histamines with me (the anti-histamines don't tend to work for me anyone), and all the pharmacies were closed for the festive season. To add insult to injury the next door neighbour's poodle seemed to spend most of her day lounging around with the Wolfhound. I resigned myself to a miserable Christmas.
The allergies never appeared, and I spent most of the holiday either tickling the Wolfhound, or sitting with the poodle staring mournfully into my face, begging for cuddles.
Since starting to walk greyhounds from the local rehoming kennels it also seems that I'm not allergic to these dogs.
I've recently discovered that greyhounds and poodles have something in common - they both have just a single coat. Most dogs have a undercoat underneath their top-coat, so I think it may be this undercoat that I'm allergic to.
However there seems to be no rhyme or reason to the dogs people are allergic to - a friend's son is OK with golden retrievers. I am not. Wheaten terriers are often named as good dogs for those with allergies. I come in bumps when I touch them.
So, the only advice I can give to those looking for a dog that will not trigger their allergies is spend tons of time with different breeds. And don't forget the anti-histamines.
Wednesday 26 November 2008
Parting is such sweet sorrow
My darling boy Nicky is being rehomed. It's brilliant news, but also a little sad.
Our last walk - well unless anything goes 'wrong' and I really hope it doesn't - was today. Tomorrow Nicky will be going to his new home. He has another small dog for company, ideal as he is still quite young and can be nervous at times. I was overjoyed at the rehoming kennels, but now I'm feeling maudlin.
My husband and I did discuss taking Nicky home with us, but for various reasons - not least because I thought he would be better off with another dog - we decided not to take him.
As the months went by I thought that perhaps no-one would take Nicky on board - he's a black boy and they always seem to be last in the rehoming queue - and that perhaps we'd have many more months of walks together.
Anyhow, a home is the best place for him. So, with Pretty rehomed recently too, I have a couple of favourite dog vacancies.
There are plenty of contenders and I'll have hours of fun meeting lots of new dogs, learning all about their unique personalities, and their funny habits.
Our last walk - well unless anything goes 'wrong' and I really hope it doesn't - was today. Tomorrow Nicky will be going to his new home. He has another small dog for company, ideal as he is still quite young and can be nervous at times. I was overjoyed at the rehoming kennels, but now I'm feeling maudlin.
My husband and I did discuss taking Nicky home with us, but for various reasons - not least because I thought he would be better off with another dog - we decided not to take him.
As the months went by I thought that perhaps no-one would take Nicky on board - he's a black boy and they always seem to be last in the rehoming queue - and that perhaps we'd have many more months of walks together.
Anyhow, a home is the best place for him. So, with Pretty rehomed recently too, I have a couple of favourite dog vacancies.
There are plenty of contenders and I'll have hours of fun meeting lots of new dogs, learning all about their unique personalities, and their funny habits.
Monday 24 November 2008
The strange case of the bites in the night time
Considering that there are 50-60 greyhounds in the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels at any one time, the dogs are generally incredibly good natured with one another.
There are some dogs like Mark, currently on home-trial, who will have a growl and bark at some other males. However, these dogs are well-known for their behaviour, and we make sure we don't bring them into the yard when there are male dogs about.
If I meet another dog while out on a walk with one of the growly dogs, I simply keep him on a short lead, make sure we pass walker to walker - so that the dogs are on the far side of one another - and speak gently to him as we pass. It usually works, but if the dog gets worked up, I just calmly walk on with him barking and growling. The other male is soon forgotten.
However, in the past week, there has been a strange spate of dogs biting their kennel-mates at night. Well, when I say a spate, there have been two incidents. It's remarkable, because it's unusual. Both pairs were long term partners, and in both the males were previously bitten by other partners.
One of the dogs involved is my favourite Nicky. He'd been bitten several times previously, but this time the worm turned and he bit his partner Becky.
Poor old Tim - a lovely bay boy - was also bitten by his long-term partner.
Two mysteries - why do these boys always seem to get bitten? One answer could be that the females are often more dominant and these guys are just a bit wimpy. Another answer that a kennel-hand gave, probably only partly tongue in cheek, is that the dogs are just really annoying.
The other mystery is why now, when the dogs have been happily kennelled together for several weeks? One theory is it could be those pesky fireworks, which are still going off around the kennels.
All the dogs have new kennel-mates so hopefully peace will once again reign.
There are some dogs like Mark, currently on home-trial, who will have a growl and bark at some other males. However, these dogs are well-known for their behaviour, and we make sure we don't bring them into the yard when there are male dogs about.
If I meet another dog while out on a walk with one of the growly dogs, I simply keep him on a short lead, make sure we pass walker to walker - so that the dogs are on the far side of one another - and speak gently to him as we pass. It usually works, but if the dog gets worked up, I just calmly walk on with him barking and growling. The other male is soon forgotten.
However, in the past week, there has been a strange spate of dogs biting their kennel-mates at night. Well, when I say a spate, there have been two incidents. It's remarkable, because it's unusual. Both pairs were long term partners, and in both the males were previously bitten by other partners.
One of the dogs involved is my favourite Nicky. He'd been bitten several times previously, but this time the worm turned and he bit his partner Becky.
Poor old Tim - a lovely bay boy - was also bitten by his long-term partner.
Two mysteries - why do these boys always seem to get bitten? One answer could be that the females are often more dominant and these guys are just a bit wimpy. Another answer that a kennel-hand gave, probably only partly tongue in cheek, is that the dogs are just really annoying.
The other mystery is why now, when the dogs have been happily kennelled together for several weeks? One theory is it could be those pesky fireworks, which are still going off around the kennels.
All the dogs have new kennel-mates so hopefully peace will once again reign.
Friday 21 November 2008
The problem with puddles...
The fields at the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels are still a bit of a quagmire, and I was really pleased that I remembered to take my wellies today.
You see, some of the greyhounds are really picky when it comes to wet ground. Yes, while some seem to relish splashing in the puddles and come back from their walks exhilarated and covered in mud, others are prima donnas when and won't get their paws wet.
Nicky doesn't make too much of a fuss and will walk through puddles. However, he does seem to prefer dry ground beneath his feet. In fact he's quite good at finding it.
It's not always apparent which bits are sodden and which give a firm footing - so if I have Nicky with me, I'll send him ahead, and he'll me on the driest path through the fields. What a smart lad!
Just as well really, as his new girlfriend, Tootsy, can't stand puddles. She looks completely mournful if she has to walk through one, and casts you a look of "Oh, do we have to? And where can I get some greyhound wellies," before trudging on, the martyr.
Horace, an elderly brindle boy, doesn't stand for any nonsense at all and just refuses to go on if the ground looks wet.
The worst - and the reason why it's crucial to wear wellies while working with the hounds - are the princesses. These dogs, like little black and white Lucy, are usually female, and will not get their paws wet for anyone.
Unlike Horace, they won't refuse to walk in the field, it's just if there's only enough dry ground for one set of paws or feet, they'll claim it and shove you into the puddles. And, it's amazing how adept at pushing you to one side a greyhound will be.
A single plank through a particularly muddy piece of ground? You'll spot it, you'll think you've stepped out towards it, and then you'll find yourself ankle deep in mud, with a greyhound tiptoeing along said plank.
Outfoxed by a hound? Honestly, I don't know how they do it.
Any tips gratefully received, or should I just carry a cape, Walter Raleigh-style, so that I can lay it across offending puddles?
You see, some of the greyhounds are really picky when it comes to wet ground. Yes, while some seem to relish splashing in the puddles and come back from their walks exhilarated and covered in mud, others are prima donnas when and won't get their paws wet.
Nicky doesn't make too much of a fuss and will walk through puddles. However, he does seem to prefer dry ground beneath his feet. In fact he's quite good at finding it.
It's not always apparent which bits are sodden and which give a firm footing - so if I have Nicky with me, I'll send him ahead, and he'll me on the driest path through the fields. What a smart lad!
Just as well really, as his new girlfriend, Tootsy, can't stand puddles. She looks completely mournful if she has to walk through one, and casts you a look of "Oh, do we have to? And where can I get some greyhound wellies," before trudging on, the martyr.
Horace, an elderly brindle boy, doesn't stand for any nonsense at all and just refuses to go on if the ground looks wet.
The worst - and the reason why it's crucial to wear wellies while working with the hounds - are the princesses. These dogs, like little black and white Lucy, are usually female, and will not get their paws wet for anyone.
Unlike Horace, they won't refuse to walk in the field, it's just if there's only enough dry ground for one set of paws or feet, they'll claim it and shove you into the puddles. And, it's amazing how adept at pushing you to one side a greyhound will be.
A single plank through a particularly muddy piece of ground? You'll spot it, you'll think you've stepped out towards it, and then you'll find yourself ankle deep in mud, with a greyhound tiptoeing along said plank.
Outfoxed by a hound? Honestly, I don't know how they do it.
Any tips gratefully received, or should I just carry a cape, Walter Raleigh-style, so that I can lay it across offending puddles?
Wednesday 19 November 2008
Greyhounds are addictive
There's been another rash of rehomings at the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels with Greg, an eight-year old black and white boy, going on home-trial and two black and white girls - Pretty and Poppy - being signed for today.
It's the two girls that have made me absolutely certain of one thing. Greyhounds ARE addictive. Both are going to homes that have at least one other hound in residence.
And hey presto, after a quick search on the internet, I've found that there's even a term to describe it: chipping. As with potato chips - the US name for crisps - when you've got a greyhound it's almost impossible to stop at one.
I'd long since suspected this was the case, having met many people at the kennels who have 2,3, 4 or even more dogs. They're often nosing around to find another hound to add to their happy gang.
The most embarrassing discussion with a multi-dog owner was when I was discussing the best way to handle two dogs. I'd recently discovered that in most cases it was easiest to hold both leads on the same hand and walk the dogs on the same side as each other.
The kennel hand I was talking with agreed and said that she always walked her dogs like this. She said it meant that she could put one onto the other side of her if one of the dogs was misbehaving. I commented that I'd found this useful as well.
Only later did I discover that she has SIX dogs. Oh dear, I am such an amateur.
It's the two girls that have made me absolutely certain of one thing. Greyhounds ARE addictive. Both are going to homes that have at least one other hound in residence.
And hey presto, after a quick search on the internet, I've found that there's even a term to describe it: chipping. As with potato chips - the US name for crisps - when you've got a greyhound it's almost impossible to stop at one.
I'd long since suspected this was the case, having met many people at the kennels who have 2,3, 4 or even more dogs. They're often nosing around to find another hound to add to their happy gang.
The most embarrassing discussion with a multi-dog owner was when I was discussing the best way to handle two dogs. I'd recently discovered that in most cases it was easiest to hold both leads on the same hand and walk the dogs on the same side as each other.
The kennel hand I was talking with agreed and said that she always walked her dogs like this. She said it meant that she could put one onto the other side of her if one of the dogs was misbehaving. I commented that I'd found this useful as well.
Only later did I discover that she has SIX dogs. Oh dear, I am such an amateur.
Monday 17 November 2008
Mud glorious mud
Today I decided to take my walking boots and not my wellies with me when I went to walk the greyhounds at the local greyhound rehoming kennels.
Big mistake. Silly me thought that, as it had been dry for the last few days, the ground would be relatively firm. I had forgotten that we'd had several days of torrential rain in the past two weeks.
Ooops - part of the field was more like a swamp. There was no way I was getting round it, so I decided to take the dogs around a smaller overgrown field. Larry was the first hound I walked, and after trying to skitter back to the kennels after seeing A BLUE VAN, he settled quite nicely onto the lead and LOVED going around the overgrown field.
I wasn't sure of the path through the undergrowth, and Larry took advantage of this by sniffing every single tussock of grass to be seen. He thought it was all WONDERFUL. It was the same story for all the other dogs I took out - so I've made a mental note to make sure I vary their routes a little bit more in the future.
Big mistake. Silly me thought that, as it had been dry for the last few days, the ground would be relatively firm. I had forgotten that we'd had several days of torrential rain in the past two weeks.
Ooops - part of the field was more like a swamp. There was no way I was getting round it, so I decided to take the dogs around a smaller overgrown field. Larry was the first hound I walked, and after trying to skitter back to the kennels after seeing A BLUE VAN, he settled quite nicely onto the lead and LOVED going around the overgrown field.
I wasn't sure of the path through the undergrowth, and Larry took advantage of this by sniffing every single tussock of grass to be seen. He thought it was all WONDERFUL. It was the same story for all the other dogs I took out - so I've made a mental note to make sure I vary their routes a little bit more in the future.
Friday 14 November 2008
Potential homes for tough-to-place dogs
Well it was all change when I went to the local retired greyhound kennels today - two of the tougher-to-rehome dogs have gone on home trials.
As I've said many times, most greyhounds docile, gentle and quite laid back. (Check out the about greyhounds section on the RGT website).
Most walk on the lead without pulling, and some can live with cats, small dogs, and other small pets. I've seen figures which suggest somewhere between 60-90% of hounds can be trained to live with smaller animals, depending on the rescue home you talk to.
On cats in particular - apparently 1 in 10 have no chase instinct whatsoever (ie they'll either be terrified of your cat, or take no notice), and the other 5-8 in 10 can be trained to live with a cat. Check out this link.
Anyhow that leaves some that cannot be trusted with cats or other small animals at all. Perhaps understandably, people are often reticent to take these dogs on, and they are left in the kennels for months and months.
I've already mentioned Sal who was rehomed last month. Now Jay and Mark - both with strong chase instincts - have gone on home trials.
Jay, a very friendly, brindle boy is apparently doing well in his new home with three other greyhounds. Mark a sweet - but nervous and growly around large dogs - white and brindle went to his new home sporting a natty new box muzzle today.
Good luck to you both boys. I really hope I don't see you again - unless it's at one of the kennel jollies and you're back to visit.
As I've said many times, most greyhounds docile, gentle and quite laid back. (Check out the about greyhounds section on the RGT website).
Most walk on the lead without pulling, and some can live with cats, small dogs, and other small pets. I've seen figures which suggest somewhere between 60-90% of hounds can be trained to live with smaller animals, depending on the rescue home you talk to.
On cats in particular - apparently 1 in 10 have no chase instinct whatsoever (ie they'll either be terrified of your cat, or take no notice), and the other 5-8 in 10 can be trained to live with a cat. Check out this link.
Anyhow that leaves some that cannot be trusted with cats or other small animals at all. Perhaps understandably, people are often reticent to take these dogs on, and they are left in the kennels for months and months.
I've already mentioned Sal who was rehomed last month. Now Jay and Mark - both with strong chase instincts - have gone on home trials.
Jay, a very friendly, brindle boy is apparently doing well in his new home with three other greyhounds. Mark a sweet - but nervous and growly around large dogs - white and brindle went to his new home sporting a natty new box muzzle today.
Good luck to you both boys. I really hope I don't see you again - unless it's at one of the kennel jollies and you're back to visit.
Wednesday 12 November 2008
Boing said Madge
For weeks after starting walking dogs from the local retired greyhound kennels I wondered why prospective adopters were required to have a six foot high fence around their garden.
Greyhounds are usually placid dogs - often described as couch potatoes - and even the biggest of them (the biggest are usually about 30 inches at the shoulder) shouldn't be able to get their snout much higher than 4 foot surely?
Then I met Madge, as I walked into the yard Madge said: "BOING!!!!" and then launched herself several feet into the air. From a standing start. "BOING," said Madge, "BOING, BOING, BOING."
I wondered whether, a bit like Zebedee from the Magic Roundabout, all four paws had been fitted with springs, but no, once she had calmed down, I saw her paws were normal. She's just quite excitable.
Since then Madge has proven she is quite adept at the Harrier jump-jet take off in any circumstance. She's quite a small dog, so if a hedge or bramble bush gets in the way and there could be a rabbit or another dog on the other side - what better way to check than the vertical take-off?
Greyhounds are usually placid dogs - often described as couch potatoes - and even the biggest of them (the biggest are usually about 30 inches at the shoulder) shouldn't be able to get their snout much higher than 4 foot surely?
Then I met Madge, as I walked into the yard Madge said: "BOING!!!!" and then launched herself several feet into the air. From a standing start. "BOING," said Madge, "BOING, BOING, BOING."
I wondered whether, a bit like Zebedee from the Magic Roundabout, all four paws had been fitted with springs, but no, once she had calmed down, I saw her paws were normal. She's just quite excitable.
Since then Madge has proven she is quite adept at the Harrier jump-jet take off in any circumstance. She's quite a small dog, so if a hedge or bramble bush gets in the way and there could be a rabbit or another dog on the other side - what better way to check than the vertical take-off?
Monday 10 November 2008
Greyhounds and allergies
Well it turns out that my suggestion that the Obamas should take on a greyhound wasn't quite so tongue in cheek as I thought.
No, I don't have an inside line to the President-elect's office, but I do know that greyhounds can be good for some people who are allergic to most dogs. In fact it seems to be a bit of an open secret - and I've met many people at the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels who find that greyhounds do not trigger their allergies.
I seem to be one of them - I am dreadfully allergic to most dogs. I don't even have to touch one and I can be wheezing and sneezing within a few minutes of walking into a room that's had a dog in it. If I touch them I come up in inflamed itchy patches on my skin, and if I touch my eyes afterwards they swell up and water. Antihistamines do not do any good.
Not so for greyhounds - after all the time spent cuddling and fussing them over the past few months I am confident they don't trigger my skin allergies.
I don't know whether they make me wheeze and sneeze, because I haven't spent any time with them indoors - however, I do know if I decided I might want to take one on I could take him home with me for a few days to test whether he triggers my allergies.
I'd strongly encourage anyone with allergies to go to their local greyhound kennels and give these dogs a go. They're likely to have their adult coat so you can be sure you won't develop allergies to them as they grow from puppy to dog - as can be the problem with labradoodles and goldendoodles.
Also it gives you the chance of giving a home to a "rescue" dog, with all the advantages of the back-up and support of the retired greyhound kennel team, a knowledge of the dog's character, and the chance to give him or her a second chance in life.
No, I don't have an inside line to the President-elect's office, but I do know that greyhounds can be good for some people who are allergic to most dogs. In fact it seems to be a bit of an open secret - and I've met many people at the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels who find that greyhounds do not trigger their allergies.
I seem to be one of them - I am dreadfully allergic to most dogs. I don't even have to touch one and I can be wheezing and sneezing within a few minutes of walking into a room that's had a dog in it. If I touch them I come up in inflamed itchy patches on my skin, and if I touch my eyes afterwards they swell up and water. Antihistamines do not do any good.
Not so for greyhounds - after all the time spent cuddling and fussing them over the past few months I am confident they don't trigger my skin allergies.
I don't know whether they make me wheeze and sneeze, because I haven't spent any time with them indoors - however, I do know if I decided I might want to take one on I could take him home with me for a few days to test whether he triggers my allergies.
I'd strongly encourage anyone with allergies to go to their local greyhound kennels and give these dogs a go. They're likely to have their adult coat so you can be sure you won't develop allergies to them as they grow from puppy to dog - as can be the problem with labradoodles and goldendoodles.
Also it gives you the chance of giving a home to a "rescue" dog, with all the advantages of the back-up and support of the retired greyhound kennel team, a knowledge of the dog's character, and the chance to give him or her a second chance in life.
Friday 7 November 2008
Table manners
Most of the greyhounds at the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels have impeccable manners when eating dog treats. In fact for many of the dogs, and the volunteer walkers, the best part of the walk is dog treats and cuddles in the yard after a brisk 20-minute spin around the kennel's fields.
Some walkers bring their own treats - sausages, cheese, anything from Bakers, and Schmakos always seem to go down well - and there are a couple of large dog bowls containing an assortment of treats.
Many of the dogs will wait and eat the treat gently out of your hand. When you give them the dog bowl full of treats, they'll root around until they find one that they like, and eat that one, rather than scoffing the whole bowl at once.
There are exceptions and one of them is Josh. Since coming in as a poor sorry skinny thing a couple of weeks ago Josh has come out of himself. He's now one of the happiest, most gregarious, dogs in the kennels - and definitely a larger-than-life character, which is saying something given he's the size of a small cart horse.
He has also lost his appetite and found a donkey's. And he's very cheeky when it comes to treat time, and more than ready to help himself. (Post-walk treat mantra: This is not a buffet).
He disgraced me a couple of weeks ago, when he landed head-first into one of the dog bowls - they had turned into plastic pumpkin buckets in time for halloween - tipped it up and guzzled about a dozen down. He only stopped when I managed to manhandle him away.
That was nothing compared to the trouble one of the other walkers had today. There was a tempting bag of sausages on the table. The walker didn't have a chance, in one swoop, Josh grabbed them with his teeth and PULLED, sending sausages flying all over the floor and causing mayhem amongst all the dogs in the yard.
Pandemonium ensued as volunteers desperately tried to pick up the scattered sausages before they were all hoovered up by an exultant Josh.
Made me think that Josh was wrongly named though - surely he should be Scooby-Doo?
Some walkers bring their own treats - sausages, cheese, anything from Bakers, and Schmakos always seem to go down well - and there are a couple of large dog bowls containing an assortment of treats.
Many of the dogs will wait and eat the treat gently out of your hand. When you give them the dog bowl full of treats, they'll root around until they find one that they like, and eat that one, rather than scoffing the whole bowl at once.
There are exceptions and one of them is Josh. Since coming in as a poor sorry skinny thing a couple of weeks ago Josh has come out of himself. He's now one of the happiest, most gregarious, dogs in the kennels - and definitely a larger-than-life character, which is saying something given he's the size of a small cart horse.
He has also lost his appetite and found a donkey's. And he's very cheeky when it comes to treat time, and more than ready to help himself. (Post-walk treat mantra: This is not a buffet).
He disgraced me a couple of weeks ago, when he landed head-first into one of the dog bowls - they had turned into plastic pumpkin buckets in time for halloween - tipped it up and guzzled about a dozen down. He only stopped when I managed to manhandle him away.
That was nothing compared to the trouble one of the other walkers had today. There was a tempting bag of sausages on the table. The walker didn't have a chance, in one swoop, Josh grabbed them with his teeth and PULLED, sending sausages flying all over the floor and causing mayhem amongst all the dogs in the yard.
Pandemonium ensued as volunteers desperately tried to pick up the scattered sausages before they were all hoovered up by an exultant Josh.
Made me think that Josh was wrongly named though - surely he should be Scooby-Doo?
Wednesday 5 November 2008
Hooray Obama!
Not that this blog is for political comment at all - but I am so thrilled that Obama has won the US Presidential election.
And.... the Obamas are going to get a new puppy for the Whitehouse - any of the US greyhound rehoming places able to convince them to take on a hound?
And.... the Obamas are going to get a new puppy for the Whitehouse - any of the US greyhound rehoming places able to convince them to take on a hound?
Tuesday 4 November 2008
Rehoming procedures part 2
I've already said how brilliant the local retired greyhound kennel's rehoming procedures are. What I didn't mention was they are not necessarily so good for a volunteer walker with favourite dogs. The first three dogs I asked for this morning were either out for a daytrip (Nicky and his kennelmate Becky were living it up at the park), and Pretty was being pampered on a sleepover.
Poor old Shawn was feeling very sorry for himself, because he was without his kennelmate, so we went for an extra long walk. When we got back to the kennels we found, to his delight, that one of the other volunteers had cooked up some sausages.
Sausages are the only treat that Shawn will eat and he wolfed them down with gusto. He then had plenty of cuddles, but I couldn't help feeling sorry for him as he was led back to his kennel by himself. Hopefully Pretty will be back to keep him company some time later today.
Poor old Shawn was feeling very sorry for himself, because he was without his kennelmate, so we went for an extra long walk. When we got back to the kennels we found, to his delight, that one of the other volunteers had cooked up some sausages.
Sausages are the only treat that Shawn will eat and he wolfed them down with gusto. He then had plenty of cuddles, but I couldn't help feeling sorry for him as he was led back to his kennel by himself. Hopefully Pretty will be back to keep him company some time later today.
Sunday 2 November 2008
Remember, remember the 5th of November
Like many dogs, some greyhounds are scared of loud noises. On a walk a sudden crash can send a dog like Larry bowling for the safety of the kennels. Others, like Nicky, will tug at the lead, with their ears back and tail between their hind legs until you speak softly to them, and they continue on their way.
So just a reminder to keep your pets safe around Bonfire Night. People have started letting off fireworks around here already - so we like to ensure that the cats are in, with the cat flap locked, before it gets dark.
The Retired Greyhound Trust gives some good advice on what to do during the firework season, and I'm sure it extends to all dogs, not just greyhounds. The main thrust is that you should take the dog for their final walk before it gets dark, draw the curtains at dusk, and turn the radio or television on.
The RGT also says that your dog will look for your response to strange sounds - so try not to jump - let your dog go to where they feel safe, and don't pamper them (they'll react more).
So just a reminder to keep your pets safe around Bonfire Night. People have started letting off fireworks around here already - so we like to ensure that the cats are in, with the cat flap locked, before it gets dark.
The Retired Greyhound Trust gives some good advice on what to do during the firework season, and I'm sure it extends to all dogs, not just greyhounds. The main thrust is that you should take the dog for their final walk before it gets dark, draw the curtains at dusk, and turn the radio or television on.
The RGT also says that your dog will look for your response to strange sounds - so try not to jump - let your dog go to where they feel safe, and don't pamper them (they'll react more).
Thursday 30 October 2008
Spark's new fella
I'm always learning something new about greyhounds when I visit the local retired greyhound rehoming kennels. And I guess as a novice I can be forgiven the occasional (or not so occasional) stupid question.
The latest hound to make me look daft was Spark's new fella, a wee little dog called Pete. Yes - the fantastic news is that Mikey's home trial went well. He's now been signed for and is living in a new home.
That meant there was a spare berth in Spark's cabin, and Pete was the dog that filled it. He's a dear little black boy with a white flash on his nose, and when I saw him in the paddock he ran straight over to me, looked cute, and whimpered for dog treats. As a bit of a soft-touch (how do they all know?) I fed him a couple of treats, and then decided I had to take this mischievous pair out for a walk.
Pete's a charmer and started giving me doe eyes every two minutes as we walked. He even seemed to be a bit of a calming influence on Spark. However, I couldn't help noticing that his trainer or owner had done something really quite odd to his coat.
It looked like his back legs and tummy had been shaved - I could understand it if he was a bitch (spaying?), but in a male dog? Perhaps some way of streamlining the dog when racing?
So, when I got back to the kennels, I quizzed one of the kennel hands. "Why on earth has he been shaved?"
I got back an incredulous look. Then laughter.
Apparently Pete is suffering from something that affects a lot of dogs on the track - I looked it up when I came home and found it was called Bald Thigh Syndrome - it could be stress related and the good news is it often clears up once the dog stops racing.
Not always though, and the kennel hand told me that one of her dogs gets this every year around about bonfire night - not surprised, all those loud bangs make me jump too.
The latest hound to make me look daft was Spark's new fella, a wee little dog called Pete. Yes - the fantastic news is that Mikey's home trial went well. He's now been signed for and is living in a new home.
That meant there was a spare berth in Spark's cabin, and Pete was the dog that filled it. He's a dear little black boy with a white flash on his nose, and when I saw him in the paddock he ran straight over to me, looked cute, and whimpered for dog treats. As a bit of a soft-touch (how do they all know?) I fed him a couple of treats, and then decided I had to take this mischievous pair out for a walk.
Pete's a charmer and started giving me doe eyes every two minutes as we walked. He even seemed to be a bit of a calming influence on Spark. However, I couldn't help noticing that his trainer or owner had done something really quite odd to his coat.
It looked like his back legs and tummy had been shaved - I could understand it if he was a bitch (spaying?), but in a male dog? Perhaps some way of streamlining the dog when racing?
So, when I got back to the kennels, I quizzed one of the kennel hands. "Why on earth has he been shaved?"
I got back an incredulous look. Then laughter.
Apparently Pete is suffering from something that affects a lot of dogs on the track - I looked it up when I came home and found it was called Bald Thigh Syndrome - it could be stress related and the good news is it often clears up once the dog stops racing.
Not always though, and the kennel hand told me that one of her dogs gets this every year around about bonfire night - not surprised, all those loud bangs make me jump too.
Tuesday 28 October 2008
School holiday doggy mania
It was the first really cold morning of the autumn this morning, and as I walked to the local branch of the retired greyhound kennels there was still a thick frost on some rooves and cars. The day was gloriously sunny though, so there was no need to wrap the dogs up in warm coats.
It's also half-term for most schoolchildren at the moment - always a manic time to walk the dogs. Sure enough there were several families, with children ranging in age from 6 or 7 to teenagers, walking the dogs.
Insurance stipulations say that no-one under the age of 16 is allowed to walk the dogs by themselves. However the kennels have found a brilliant way around this. An adult is given the "main" lead, and then all the kids in the party have a lead which they can attach to the main lead.
This is great because it means everyone gets to walk the dog together, but the dog, and all the children, stay absolutely safe - a greyhound can accelerate from 0-40mph in just a few steps, so it's best to have more than one hand on the lead.
On this subject, when you walk a greyhound you have to hold the lead in a special way - with the loop at the top in the palm of your hand, and then the lead looped again around your forearm. The dogs can take you by suprise if they "bolt" and this ensures they don't pull the lead straight out of your hands.
It's also half-term for most schoolchildren at the moment - always a manic time to walk the dogs. Sure enough there were several families, with children ranging in age from 6 or 7 to teenagers, walking the dogs.
Insurance stipulations say that no-one under the age of 16 is allowed to walk the dogs by themselves. However the kennels have found a brilliant way around this. An adult is given the "main" lead, and then all the kids in the party have a lead which they can attach to the main lead.
This is great because it means everyone gets to walk the dog together, but the dog, and all the children, stay absolutely safe - a greyhound can accelerate from 0-40mph in just a few steps, so it's best to have more than one hand on the lead.
On this subject, when you walk a greyhound you have to hold the lead in a special way - with the loop at the top in the palm of your hand, and then the lead looped again around your forearm. The dogs can take you by suprise if they "bolt" and this ensures they don't pull the lead straight out of your hands.
Monday 27 October 2008
Greyhound Racing Programme
There was just a nod to rehoming in the programme on greyhound racing on Radio 4 this morning.
It did give an insight into the lives of the trainers, owners and bookies though. The programme is available on the listen again webpage on the BBC. (It's choice of the day at the moment, or look for "Lives in a Landscape" in the alphabetical listings. It should be available for a week).
It's well worth listening to if you want a flavour of greyhound racing without actually visiting the stadium.
I do think it's a bit of a shame that Alan Dein didn't spend a few minutes talking about one of the rehoming charities such as the Retired Greyhound Trust. There are two branches specifically dedicated to rehoming Walthamstow hounds - and I think the programme should have asked what happened to the hounds once the stadium had closed. Sure, he followed one of the trainers to Sittingbourne stadium, but not all of the dogs are racing elsewhere.
It did give an insight into the lives of the trainers, owners and bookies though. The programme is available on the listen again webpage on the BBC. (It's choice of the day at the moment, or look for "Lives in a Landscape" in the alphabetical listings. It should be available for a week).
It's well worth listening to if you want a flavour of greyhound racing without actually visiting the stadium.
I do think it's a bit of a shame that Alan Dein didn't spend a few minutes talking about one of the rehoming charities such as the Retired Greyhound Trust. There are two branches specifically dedicated to rehoming Walthamstow hounds - and I think the programme should have asked what happened to the hounds once the stadium had closed. Sure, he followed one of the trainers to Sittingbourne stadium, but not all of the dogs are racing elsewhere.
Thursday 23 October 2008
Greyhound Racing Programme Radio 4
There will be a programme about the closure of Walthamstow greyhound racing stadium on Radio 4 this Monday 27 October at 11am.
Listen along - or I'll blog about it afterwards. I'm hoping they'll mention something about greyhound rescue and rehoming.
Listen along - or I'll blog about it afterwards. I'm hoping they'll mention something about greyhound rescue and rehoming.
Wednesday 22 October 2008
NEWSFLASH: Dogs are good for you
Quick news update. The Dogs Trust says that owning or interacting with dogs is good for your health.
I can certainly corroborate that. I've often gone to walk the dogs at our local greyhound rehoming centre in a foul mood. I could be worrying about where the next commission or next piece of work will come from, have been rained on on the way to the kennels, or just got out of the wrong side of the bed.
On the way to the station I'll be muttering to myself: "Oh, I really can't be bothered to do this today."
Five seconds after picking up Nicky, or another dog, for the first walk of the day - or even before, because one of the hounds is doing something daft in the paddock - all my worries are forgotten and I'm gently chatting nonesense to my canine companion.
Plus all that walking keeps your fitness up. You can take any number of dogs out that you like or a walk, I tend to go for 5 walks with either a single dog or a pair, meaning I get nearly three hours of fresh air, and around two hours of walking.
I can certainly corroborate that. I've often gone to walk the dogs at our local greyhound rehoming centre in a foul mood. I could be worrying about where the next commission or next piece of work will come from, have been rained on on the way to the kennels, or just got out of the wrong side of the bed.
On the way to the station I'll be muttering to myself: "Oh, I really can't be bothered to do this today."
Five seconds after picking up Nicky, or another dog, for the first walk of the day - or even before, because one of the hounds is doing something daft in the paddock - all my worries are forgotten and I'm gently chatting nonesense to my canine companion.
Plus all that walking keeps your fitness up. You can take any number of dogs out that you like or a walk, I tend to go for 5 walks with either a single dog or a pair, meaning I get nearly three hours of fresh air, and around two hours of walking.
Tuesday 21 October 2008
Mikey goes for a sleepover
The rehoming procedures at our local Retired Greyhound Kennels are absolutely brilliant. Prospective owners have plenty of opportunity to spend time with the homeless hounds, there are homechecks to ensure the dog will be safe and happy, and the whole family - kids, canines and all - can come down to find their perfect greyhound.
Once you think you know which dog you want to adopt you can take them home to see how they fit into your household - before signing the rehoming paperwork.
Mikey, Spark's kennelmate, is on a sleepover. He's a young black lad who has been in the kennels for 3 or 4 months. When he first came in he was flittery on a lead, and we wondered whether he had ever been walked. This whole business of being taken out for 20 minutes by a human companion seemed rather foreign to him.
What a difference a few weeks of love and regular walks can make. I couldn't believe my eyes last week when I saw Mikey behaving perfectly on the lead, while being walked with a sweet little Jack Russell bitch. A few days later the Jack Russell's owner came to pick Mikey up and take him home for a few days. No news yet - so here's hoping that this is another match made in heaven.
Once you think you know which dog you want to adopt you can take them home to see how they fit into your household - before signing the rehoming paperwork.
Mikey, Spark's kennelmate, is on a sleepover. He's a young black lad who has been in the kennels for 3 or 4 months. When he first came in he was flittery on a lead, and we wondered whether he had ever been walked. This whole business of being taken out for 20 minutes by a human companion seemed rather foreign to him.
What a difference a few weeks of love and regular walks can make. I couldn't believe my eyes last week when I saw Mikey behaving perfectly on the lead, while being walked with a sweet little Jack Russell bitch. A few days later the Jack Russell's owner came to pick Mikey up and take him home for a few days. No news yet - so here's hoping that this is another match made in heaven.
Sunday 19 October 2008
Spark sees the fox
Last walk of the day was Spark, a black bundle of energy, who exploded out of her kennel, legs aquiver, straining on her lead, proclaiming: "Let me at 'em!"
Spark's kennel mate is on a home trail, so sadly for her (but thankfully for the rest of us), she lacked someone to cause trouble with. That didn't stop her though, and as I was dragged out of the front door of the local Retired Greyhound Trust home one of the kennel hands thoughtfully yelled: "If she sees anything that isn't another greyhound, just remember to hold on tight."
Yep, Spark is one of THOSE greyhounds. Like other sighthounds, greyhounds have been bred to chase something that is small and moving. This doesn't mean that they all do, and some take no notice as rabbits and squirrels cross your path. Most of the others won't take chase especially if you firmly tell them "no!"
However there are a few special exceptions, and Spark is one of them, who get wildly excited if they see something - anything - that isn't another greyhound.
As I struggled to close the gate, with Spark pulling frantically, I heard someone say: "I'm not sure who's taking who for a walk." Gate closed, the dog rushed to the side of the lane and sighed in relief - all that panic was because of a full bladder.
Suitably relieved, Spark settled down nicely onto the lead. Ten minutes in I was congratulating myself on how well the walk was going. The dog was behaving impeccably, trotting gently by my side and occasionally demanding a tickle. Must be that naughty kennel mate that causes all the trouble.
Then we saw the fox. Spark went rigid and then she pulled. Ready for this, I had her on an extremely short lead, she wasn't going anywhere.
"No," in a quiet but strict voice, "No. Good girl." After a few seconds I started to try to move her on. Spark wasn't having any of it - dog and fox were now staring at one another in a mexican stand-off.
"C'mon girl," finally she seemed to hear me, and she started to move still staring fixedly at the fox. After a bit of a wrestle I got her behind a hedge and she relaxed slightly, still glancing behind her.
A few yards on the fox was almost forgotten, so I gave her a cuddle and told her she was a good girl.
On the way home Spark had a spring in her step. "Ah, these walks are wonderful," she beamed. "I like to keep the volunteers on their toes."
Spark's kennel mate is on a home trail, so sadly for her (but thankfully for the rest of us), she lacked someone to cause trouble with. That didn't stop her though, and as I was dragged out of the front door of the local Retired Greyhound Trust home one of the kennel hands thoughtfully yelled: "If she sees anything that isn't another greyhound, just remember to hold on tight."
Yep, Spark is one of THOSE greyhounds. Like other sighthounds, greyhounds have been bred to chase something that is small and moving. This doesn't mean that they all do, and some take no notice as rabbits and squirrels cross your path. Most of the others won't take chase especially if you firmly tell them "no!"
However there are a few special exceptions, and Spark is one of them, who get wildly excited if they see something - anything - that isn't another greyhound.
As I struggled to close the gate, with Spark pulling frantically, I heard someone say: "I'm not sure who's taking who for a walk." Gate closed, the dog rushed to the side of the lane and sighed in relief - all that panic was because of a full bladder.
Suitably relieved, Spark settled down nicely onto the lead. Ten minutes in I was congratulating myself on how well the walk was going. The dog was behaving impeccably, trotting gently by my side and occasionally demanding a tickle. Must be that naughty kennel mate that causes all the trouble.
Then we saw the fox. Spark went rigid and then she pulled. Ready for this, I had her on an extremely short lead, she wasn't going anywhere.
"No," in a quiet but strict voice, "No. Good girl." After a few seconds I started to try to move her on. Spark wasn't having any of it - dog and fox were now staring at one another in a mexican stand-off.
"C'mon girl," finally she seemed to hear me, and she started to move still staring fixedly at the fox. After a bit of a wrestle I got her behind a hedge and she relaxed slightly, still glancing behind her.
A few yards on the fox was almost forgotten, so I gave her a cuddle and told her she was a good girl.
On the way home Spark had a spring in her step. "Ah, these walks are wonderful," she beamed. "I like to keep the volunteers on their toes."
Friday 17 October 2008
Larry the stockbroker
If Larry was human I'm sure he'd be a stockbroker. If not a stockbroker he'd at least be an investor in the FTSE - he reacts in the same way the stock markets are reacting at the moment.
Larry is a stunning brindle boy. Brindles are tan and brown with tiger stripes, and most are rehomed in the blink of an eye. Larry's been in the local greyhound rehoming kennels for about 6 months because he's a bit of a silly billy.
When you first meet him, he's nervous, he's skittery, and will jump at his shadow. Or a leaf. And if he hears a male voice his legs will spin round and he'll drag you back to the kennels - and safety.
After a few walks, he's a different dog. "Me, scared? No, must have been another brindle," and he trots off confidently, happily leading the way. You think to yourself: "Brilliant, a breakthrough, he's really come out of himself."
Then something happens, you haven't walked him for a few weeks, or he sees A WHITE VAN, and the nervous jittery boy is back, plunging and lunging back to the safety of the kennels. (See I told you he was a stockbroker).
"Poor Larry," laments one of the walkers. "He's so nervous he'll never find a home." And yet, with the kennel hands, with his regular walkers, he's a completely different loving boy.
Go on, when you go to choose your hound, give one of the shy ones a go.
Larry is a stunning brindle boy. Brindles are tan and brown with tiger stripes, and most are rehomed in the blink of an eye. Larry's been in the local greyhound rehoming kennels for about 6 months because he's a bit of a silly billy.
When you first meet him, he's nervous, he's skittery, and will jump at his shadow. Or a leaf. And if he hears a male voice his legs will spin round and he'll drag you back to the kennels - and safety.
After a few walks, he's a different dog. "Me, scared? No, must have been another brindle," and he trots off confidently, happily leading the way. You think to yourself: "Brilliant, a breakthrough, he's really come out of himself."
Then something happens, you haven't walked him for a few weeks, or he sees A WHITE VAN, and the nervous jittery boy is back, plunging and lunging back to the safety of the kennels. (See I told you he was a stockbroker).
"Poor Larry," laments one of the walkers. "He's so nervous he'll never find a home." And yet, with the kennel hands, with his regular walkers, he's a completely different loving boy.
Go on, when you go to choose your hound, give one of the shy ones a go.
Wednesday 15 October 2008
Josh finds heaven on earth
Josh is a big beautiful black and white retired racing hound, and he came into the kennels in a bit of a state. He had sore paws and a sore nose, was skinny, and had yellow urine stains on his coat. Poor boy.
I've been walking greyhounds from the local Retired Greyhound Trust kennels for about 6 months now. When Josh was given to me the kennel hand said: "We don't know much about him, he only came in two days ago." It turns out Josh probably had no bedding to sleep on - just a wooden bench - and also may have been kept muzzled all day, every day.
You're never sure what you are going to get when you walk a new greyhound for the first time. Some are so terrified they don't want to leave the kennels. Others seem to have never been walked before and are not sure what to do, either looking at you for reassurance every two seconds, or skittering and flittering from side to side, sniffing every glorious new smell. Some pull like steam-trains, others never relax, constantly scanning for something to chase. Most though are a delight, and happily trot by your side, with the occasional adoring glance - from both walker and dog - as you chat to them.
Josh was one of the latter, a true delight, the relaxing walk punctuated from time to time by a big head resting on my arm and demanding tickles. By the time I'd got him half way round his walk I had already fallen in love. (It has to be noted that this is not an unusual occurence).
Once back at the kennels Josh's sore paws and nose had to be seen to - after dog treats. "Yum," said Josh in between mouthfuls. Then he was given lots of tickles and cudddles, to which he gave a couple of whimpers in delight. After a wash Josh's sore paws and nose were slathered in Sudocreme, and he was led back to his kennel seemingly walking on air.
One of kennel hands laughed and said: "He thinks he's gone to heaven." Just wait until he gets a home.
I've been walking greyhounds from the local Retired Greyhound Trust kennels for about 6 months now. When Josh was given to me the kennel hand said: "We don't know much about him, he only came in two days ago." It turns out Josh probably had no bedding to sleep on - just a wooden bench - and also may have been kept muzzled all day, every day.
You're never sure what you are going to get when you walk a new greyhound for the first time. Some are so terrified they don't want to leave the kennels. Others seem to have never been walked before and are not sure what to do, either looking at you for reassurance every two seconds, or skittering and flittering from side to side, sniffing every glorious new smell. Some pull like steam-trains, others never relax, constantly scanning for something to chase. Most though are a delight, and happily trot by your side, with the occasional adoring glance - from both walker and dog - as you chat to them.
Josh was one of the latter, a true delight, the relaxing walk punctuated from time to time by a big head resting on my arm and demanding tickles. By the time I'd got him half way round his walk I had already fallen in love. (It has to be noted that this is not an unusual occurence).
Once back at the kennels Josh's sore paws and nose had to be seen to - after dog treats. "Yum," said Josh in between mouthfuls. Then he was given lots of tickles and cudddles, to which he gave a couple of whimpers in delight. After a wash Josh's sore paws and nose were slathered in Sudocreme, and he was led back to his kennel seemingly walking on air.
One of kennel hands laughed and said: "He thinks he's gone to heaven." Just wait until he gets a home.
Friday 10 October 2008
Wonderful news: Sal gets a new home
Wonderful news! Sal, one of the long-term residents at the local retired greyhound kennels, has found a new home. She is a beautiful, friendly, blue girl, who loves tickles, cuddles and walks.
Sal, however, knows her own mind, she's very powerful, and has a very keen chase instinct.
Greyhounds are sighthounds and they have been trained to chase something that is small, furry and runs. However, different greyhounds show different levels of "interest" in small animals. Some have no interest at all, others, like Sal, will chase - and if allowed catch - anything and everything and will be very actively alert on their walks.
This meant Sal needed very experienced owners, who wouldn't mind keeping her muzzled and on the lead when she was out.
Happily, after nearly two years in kennels, Sal has just found some loving owners who will do her justice and give her a wonderful new home. Sal will be their third greyhound and, I think, more than just a little bit spoilt. Lovely girl.
Sal, however, knows her own mind, she's very powerful, and has a very keen chase instinct.
Greyhounds are sighthounds and they have been trained to chase something that is small, furry and runs. However, different greyhounds show different levels of "interest" in small animals. Some have no interest at all, others, like Sal, will chase - and if allowed catch - anything and everything and will be very actively alert on their walks.
This meant Sal needed very experienced owners, who wouldn't mind keeping her muzzled and on the lead when she was out.
Happily, after nearly two years in kennels, Sal has just found some loving owners who will do her justice and give her a wonderful new home. Sal will be their third greyhound and, I think, more than just a little bit spoilt. Lovely girl.
Wednesday 8 October 2008
Nicky goes to the park
Nicky is my current favourite. He's a darling little black boy and not much more than a puppy.
The local retired greyhound kennels have several paddock areas where dogs can spend some time outdoors when they are not being walked. One of the areas faces the tables the walkers sit at when they are waiting for their dogs.
The first time I saw Nicky he was wagging his tail so vigourously that he was shaking the mesh fence between us. I knew I would have to walk him on my next visit.
Two months later and Nicky is always the first dog I take out for a walk. He helps me unpack my rucksack when we get back and usefully points out the dog treats by sticking his nose inside. Obviously I would have forgotten all about them if he hadn't shown them to me.
However, we have just had the best treat ever. My husband had promised that we could take Nicky to the park. Not sure who was must excited - me or the dog - as this was the first time I had walked greyhounds away from the kennels.
The dog looked a little unsure when we asked him to get into the car, but soon got the idea and jumped in unaided. Nicky was so thrilled on the drive to the park, and stood with his head firmly stuck between the two front seats taking everything in. (Mental note: dog guard would be useful if we do this often).
Just a tiny hiccough when we got to the park - Nicky tried to follow me out of the front door. I rushed round to the back of the car, and he quickly realised it would be much easier to get out of the boot door.
Near the kennels Nicky sniffs for England, sometimes taking over thirty minutes to do what should be a fifteen minute walk, and I was rather worried that we wouldn't get very far with him at the park. Imagine all those wonderful new smells.
I was happily suprised. I've never seen Nicky so interested and alert. Absolutely everything was exciting. He drank in everything - obviously never imagining that such an interesting world existed outside the kennels.
He was so well behaved and happily trotted to heel - well apart from when something particularly interesting caught his attention. He skipped at squirrels, he gawped at the big lake, and he was just a little bit scared of the ducks and other dogs.
Our lovely boy didn't even complain when we got a bit lost and took him on a longer walk than we expected. Although about 10 minutes before the end of our nearly four-mile walk his head went down because he was "just sooooo tired". A quick cuddle and he assured me he'd march on. We were soon back at the car, and to show us that he now knew exactly what to do, he leapt into the back of the car, and lay down - happy and exhausted.
The local retired greyhound kennels have several paddock areas where dogs can spend some time outdoors when they are not being walked. One of the areas faces the tables the walkers sit at when they are waiting for their dogs.
The first time I saw Nicky he was wagging his tail so vigourously that he was shaking the mesh fence between us. I knew I would have to walk him on my next visit.
Two months later and Nicky is always the first dog I take out for a walk. He helps me unpack my rucksack when we get back and usefully points out the dog treats by sticking his nose inside. Obviously I would have forgotten all about them if he hadn't shown them to me.
However, we have just had the best treat ever. My husband had promised that we could take Nicky to the park. Not sure who was must excited - me or the dog - as this was the first time I had walked greyhounds away from the kennels.
The dog looked a little unsure when we asked him to get into the car, but soon got the idea and jumped in unaided. Nicky was so thrilled on the drive to the park, and stood with his head firmly stuck between the two front seats taking everything in. (Mental note: dog guard would be useful if we do this often).
Just a tiny hiccough when we got to the park - Nicky tried to follow me out of the front door. I rushed round to the back of the car, and he quickly realised it would be much easier to get out of the boot door.
Near the kennels Nicky sniffs for England, sometimes taking over thirty minutes to do what should be a fifteen minute walk, and I was rather worried that we wouldn't get very far with him at the park. Imagine all those wonderful new smells.
I was happily suprised. I've never seen Nicky so interested and alert. Absolutely everything was exciting. He drank in everything - obviously never imagining that such an interesting world existed outside the kennels.
He was so well behaved and happily trotted to heel - well apart from when something particularly interesting caught his attention. He skipped at squirrels, he gawped at the big lake, and he was just a little bit scared of the ducks and other dogs.
Our lovely boy didn't even complain when we got a bit lost and took him on a longer walk than we expected. Although about 10 minutes before the end of our nearly four-mile walk his head went down because he was "just sooooo tired". A quick cuddle and he assured me he'd march on. We were soon back at the car, and to show us that he now knew exactly what to do, he leapt into the back of the car, and lay down - happy and exhausted.
Wednesday 1 October 2008
Shawn gets a girlfriend
Dogs at the local retired greyhound kennels are usually kennelled in boy and girl pairs. However the boys are often on their lonesome, because girls are often rehomed more quickly. This seems to be because people think that females will be easier to handle. Not always the case, but that's another story. (Let's just say if anyone asked me what type of greyhound to adopt I'd say - GET A BLACK BOY - the "pretty" dogs and the females seem to go first, so there are some super black boys waiting for homes.)
Anyhow Shawn is a gentle black and white boy who had been in kennels for a few weeks. I had taken quite a shine to him, and we were just about to go for our constitutional, when one of the kennel hands shouted: "Hang-on will you take out two?"
I agreed, and myself and Shawn were introduced to Pretty, a petite black and white girl who had arrived from Ireland the day before. After the prerequisite sniffing and doggy introductions I was asked to take them for a walk and "see how they get on together".
These two lovely dogs seemed to be made for one another. They were soon walking side by side, with Shawn towering above Pretty, because she is such a tiny little thing. Several Kodak moments later (one particularly sticks in the mind - with Shawn putting his head protectively over Pretty's back) we all get back to the kennels, with me able to happily report that they've got on very well - and that Shawn need no longer be lonely.
Anyhow Shawn is a gentle black and white boy who had been in kennels for a few weeks. I had taken quite a shine to him, and we were just about to go for our constitutional, when one of the kennel hands shouted: "Hang-on will you take out two?"
I agreed, and myself and Shawn were introduced to Pretty, a petite black and white girl who had arrived from Ireland the day before. After the prerequisite sniffing and doggy introductions I was asked to take them for a walk and "see how they get on together".
These two lovely dogs seemed to be made for one another. They were soon walking side by side, with Shawn towering above Pretty, because she is such a tiny little thing. Several Kodak moments later (one particularly sticks in the mind - with Shawn putting his head protectively over Pretty's back) we all get back to the kennels, with me able to happily report that they've got on very well - and that Shawn need no longer be lonely.
Dog tails
Hoorah! I've worked out how to create links to each of the dogs that I've written about.
Click on a name to hear that hound's tale.
*When I first started writing this blog I changed the greyhounds names. However - with the blessing of the folks at my local kennels - I started using real names at the start of 2009.
I've put the real names of just those dogs that are still to be rehomed (as of mid April 2009) on this list.
Click on a name to hear that hound's tale.
- Angie (black girl - rehomed)
- Ava (white and blue - on trial)
- Becker (black boy)
- Becky (black girl - rehomed)
- Chas (white and tan boy - rehomed)
- Dumbo (white and tan boy)
- Emma (blue girl - on trial)
- Flo (black girl)
- Frank (black and white boy)
- Jay (white and brindle boy - rehomed)
- Joe (black boy - rehomed)
- Josh (white and black by - rehomed)
- Kelly (tan girl - rehomed)
- Kenny (black and white boy)
- Mark (white and brindle boy - rehomed)
- Mikey (black boy - rehomed)
- Missy (brown and brindle girl)
- Nicky (Nero*: black boy)
- Nobby (blue boy - rehomed)
- Ollie (blue boy - reserved)
- Pete (black boy - rehomed)
- Poppy (white and black girl - rehomed)
- Pretty (black-and-white girl - rehomed)
- Sal (blue girl - rehomed)
- Shawn (Clyde*: white and black boy)
- Spark (Star*: black girl)
- Topsy (black girl - rehomed)
- William (white and brindle boy - on trial)
*When I first started writing this blog I changed the greyhounds names. However - with the blessing of the folks at my local kennels - I started using real names at the start of 2009.
I've put the real names of just those dogs that are still to be rehomed (as of mid April 2009) on this list.
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