Q&A about Greyhounds
Do Greyhounds need a lot of exercise?
In retirement, their exercise needs are the same as any other dog. A Greyhound must NEVER be off leash when outdoors, unless within a completely fenced-in area. They can run up to 42 mph.
Can Greyhounds live outdoors?
Absolutely NOT! Greyhounds have a thin coat and the lack of body fat makes them extremely sensitive to heat and cold. Greyhounds enjoy the company of their families and wish to be close by.
Are they housebroken?
No, but they are crate trained. With the proper use of a crate in your home, they can usually be housebroken in a few days. Some individual dogs may take longer but with patience and positive reinforcement, the training should go smoothly.
Are they good with children?
Greyhounds are gentle, friendly animals, but are also large, very muscular adult dogs. Our dogs are ex-racers and have been involved in the business of racing. Playing and interacting with children may seem strange at first. They are used to being only with other Greyhounds. They may be rough and accidentally knock over and injure a young child. While they learn to play, they will generally do so for only short periods of time.
Although the perception of the Greyhounds is that they are “hyper,” the truth is that they are actually “couch potatoes.” As racers, they had been accustomed to spending most of the day in the relative safety of their crates. They slept, ate and received treats in their crates. Small children cannot be expected to understand that the dog’s “space’ needs to be respected when the dog goes to lie down or is sleeping, eating or enjoying a toy or treat.
This is true with any adult dog that you would bring into your home. As with any animal, interaction with children should always occur only under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. It has been our experience that the ex-racer does better with older children who are able to enjoy the dog and still understand its need for space and quiet time. Therefore, we generally do not adopt to families with children under the age of seven. In addition, if you are considering having children in the near future, it might be wise to consider another breed more suited to small children.
Do Greyhounds make good pets?
Every Greyhound that has been raised with love and affection, especially early in life, will make a wonderful, loving, devoted pet. Greyhounds soon become attached to their new owners, thrive on pleasing them, and never tire of being petted. Many people who have adopted a Greyhound say they are the best pets. Please remember that there is no such thing as the “perfect” dog, and Greyhounds are no exception. They are dogs and are capable of doing “doggie” things. They are however, sensitive and highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train with positive reinforcement. Negative training should never be used since it only produces harmful results.
How much does it cost to adopt?
The basic donation is $275 which includes spaying or neutering, teeth cleaning, all inoculations, heartworm test, a microchip, a new safety collar with matching leash and ID tags.
How do I adopt?
Complete the online application (click here); or you may call (941) 379-FAST and leave your complete name and address. An information packet will be mailed to you.
I can’t adopt now. How else can I help?
At any given time we may have 25 or more Greyhounds in our care awaiting adoption. Some of these dogs have special needs and may spend months in our care. We rely solely on donations and volunteer support to care for these dogs. You may consider being a sponsor, a volunteer in some capacity or even fostering.
What else does the Racing Dog Rescue Project do?
Often, area businesses and community organizations invite us to come and speak at their functions regarding our program.
We also visit nursing homes and other facilities that care for the physically, mentally and emotionally challenged. Therapy Greyhounds do not mind the attention and studies show that just petting a dog often has a very positive and calming effect on people.
