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So You're Thinking Of Adopting A Greyhound!
A Greyhound's Point of View
From the time I am a pup, to going off to school, I eat and play with other greyhounds. When I begin my career in racing, I move into a crate in a large complex. No one is allowed in my crate but me and while I am in there, no one can touch me without warning. I sleep on shredded paper, I have never been touched while I am sleeping. They even feed me in my little one room apartment, such as it is. I eat when I am fed and no one tells me not to eat something within my reach. I am not asked if I have to "go outside." I have a name, but no one seems to use it. I am placed in a large area and I then find out what I am supposed to do. I am on a routine, and I like that. I am always in a fenced area so I know of no danger. I can run without any obstacles in my way and I know the fence protects me. I play with my pack because I am a pack animal. The only humans I see are the "waiter" and the "restroom attendants." I get so excited when they come that I put my feet on them, jump and romp for attention. Do I know better?....Surely you jest!
No one comes and goes in the kennel without my knowledge. There are no surprises, no strange noises, no children, no other breed of dogs. There are no stairs or glass doors to run through. The only thing I look forward to is being taken out of my crate for a race. Will I win? I have no control over my life, my heart or my soul. I must win or my fate is uncertain.
The fleas and ticks bite me and my so-called is apartment is rough on my tender skin. The shredded paper is not soft and warm but I am lucky to have it. Sometimes I don't feel like racing but I still must perform for the crowd. After all, they have a $2.00 bet on me. If they only knew that losing one more time could seal my fate - DEATH! Some of my pals are injured on the track and I never see them again. I know I have parasites in my body for I never seem to gain weight. My teeth need cleaning but no one seems to care.
I hear there are adoption groups for dogs like me and maybe I will be lucky and they will pick me. Will they refuse me because of my color or my sex? What can I do to please them?
If I am adopted, I hope the person will be patient with me because I have never had any control over my short life. I have never been asked to do anything for myself. I hope they will come to think of me as a member of the family and give me a life-long commitment of love and care....
A Very Hopeful Greyhound
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