Kennel News - Hall Green Retired Greyhound Trust

National News
Major Fundraising Event
Catch up with PETER
The SPONSORED RACES WEEKEND
LAURIE and his 2012
at Hall Green Stadium will be taking
last quarter summary on
place on FRIDAY 29th & SATURDAY
Rehoming, Promotions
30th MARCH. We are still looking
and Events etc also Peters gives us
for more volunteers for this event so
a little insight of what’s to come for
if you are interested please call Hall
Retired Greyhound Trust in 2013.
Green on 0121 426 4810 Thank You.
HALL
Hall Green is a proud partner of the
Registered Charity Number: 269668
GREEN
Kennel
News
Cheers to
our Volunteers
16pg February 2013
Issue No.003
Volunteers are the heart and soul of Hall Green Retired
wants to give their time, please do get in
Greyhound Trust and we want to shout from the rooftops a
touch; as you can see there are lots of jobs that
huge CHEERS TO ALL OUR VOLUNTEERS for all their hard
need doing.
work over the last 12 months. It is through your participation
and dedication that the Trust finds loving homes for retired
ex-racing greyhounds and continues to survive in a tough
economic climate. Your time, effort and enthusiasm makes
such a difference to the lives of the dogs in our kennels and we
All these acts, both large and small, given freely, are truly
priceless. Adopting one greyhound won’t change the world,
but the world will surely change for that one greyhound, and
with the help of all our volunteers in one way or another, 139
think that’s worth celebrating!
homes were found in 2012 for greyhounds whose racing days
Our volunteers come in all shapes and sizes, ages, and
you all to know how much you are valued and appreciated;
backgrounds. There are so many ways that people help the
without
Trust; dog walking, selling raffle tickets, helping at roadshows,
wouldn’t exist.For your
taking photographs, shaking collecting tins, dressing up in the
time and effort, we thank
Homer suit, doing homechecks, taking part in sponsored race
you, but most of all,
nights, fostering, organising and helping at special events,
those greyhounds curled up
sponsored walks, birthday bashes, washing dogs, tidying
on a doggie duvet next to a warm
up the kennels, baking cakes, contributing to newsletters,
radiator on these
designing posters, doing the endless paperwork, stocktaking,
cold winter nights
ordering and selling merchandise, running the sponsor
thank you, too.
finished at Hall Green stadium (and a few strays, too). We want
you
we
scheme, giving talks to groups, being
committee members…the list goes on,
and on, and on.
Just some of our many Volunteers
It has been hugely encouraging that
there has been so many new faces in
2012 and we know there are few more
joining us in 2013. We hope we have
made everyone feel welcome. The
more the merrier, we say, so if anyone
www.hallgreenrgt.co.uk
simply
Adopting a Shy Greyhound
When I first met Milo, or Christy as he was, he wouldn’t
look at me, his eyes fixed on anything but me apart from the
occasional glance to see what I was up to. What I was up to was
trying to put his lead on so we could go for a walk but he made
it perfectly clear he didn’t want anything to do with me, pushing
himself against the kennel wall. Putting his lead on was not going
to be easy but I managed and off we went to Waseley for the
monthly walk. He didn’t interact with me or anyone else for the
whole walk. He didn’t even take a sausage from the kind lady who
gave them out to all the hounds that day; he pulled back and tried
to get away from anyone who tried to approach.
Looking back at our first meeting I am still surprised that he now
lives with me and even more surprised that not only does he take
As Luke,
a shy dog, was until
recently our longest stayer, (he waited 9
months for a forever home), we decided
to re-print Sarah Parry’s article that
appeared in a previous edition of the
food from me when offered he’ll try to pinch it when it’s not. There
was something about this shy, timid lad that tugged at my heartstrings and I couldn’t get him out of my head. I had decided I
was going to offer a home to a greyhound and was waiting for a
cat friendly one. Something was telling me this beautiful, shy lad
Kennel News a few years ago. Hopefully
would be more worried about the cats than they would be about
it will inspire people to come forward to
him. When the cat testing day arrived my instinct was right; he
offer shy dogs forever homes.
didn’t react to them at all. So in late February of this year he came
to live with me.
For the first two weeks he wouldn’t come into the same room as me spending most of his time hiding under the
kitchen table. He wouldn’t take food from me nor would he eat his meals unless I left the room. I went about my daily
routine as though all was normal and hoped that in time he would get used to me being around. Then one night, while
I was watching TV, I heard him creep into the living room and lie down on his bed, which had gone unused. I can still
remember how touched I was that he had decided that he might, just might, think about trusting me. I sat there, tears
welling up in my eyes, trying to be as still and quiet as I could when every inch of me wanted to go over and cuddle him
but I knew if I did he’d run straight back under the table. So I sat there thrilled that he was actually in the same room
while he slept for a full 30 minutes.
Things quickly got better after that and each day he would take
Some things I have found that help a shy dog gain confidence:
another brave step from taking treats out of my hand to climbing
• Don’t approach them from the front, let them approach you or try and move towards them from the side. This is far less intimidating for them.
up on the sofa and curling up next to me and each one makes
• Stroke them under the chin and the side of the face as a hand looming over their head can be quite overwhelming if you haven’t gained their trust.
of bringing Milo home I decided he would do better if he had a
• Don’t make direct eye contact - this can be very threatening to a shy hound.
there was something about this sweet little girl that made me
me love him more, if that was possible. Within a couple of weeks
friend so when Lola (kennel name Chrissy) came to HG RGT
• Don’t baby them when they are fearful. Instead be very matter of fact to show that everything is fine.
think she was the one. They make an adorable pair and it turned
• Ensure that the lead is secure while out on a walk. Shy dogs can spook easily and may try and back out of his/her collar and run.
case, realising life outside of the kennels was quite different and
• Greyhounds in general and shy ones in particular thrive on routine, it helps their confidence if they know what to expect.
• In the early weeks give them a place of their own to retreat to like a dog crate or a cosy corner.
• Take things slow; he or she will thank you for your patience as their confidence grows.
So, if one day you decide to offer a home to an ex-racer please don’t
over look the one who is cowering at the back of his kennel. If you give
them a chance to shine and take the time and patience to build their
confidence it will be truly a beautiful experience and a privilege when
that day arrives when he or she snuggles up on the sofa with you and
you realise they trust you.-
out that although Lola appeared to be confident this was not the
a little scary. So now I had two shy greyhounds.
They both have had their hurdles to overcome, like wobbly paving
slabs, washing flapping on the line and that strange box in the
corner of the room known as TV. As time goes by they worry
about things less and on a sunny day Milo can often be found
lying on the lawn dozing under the washing, which once terrified
him. Lola is still concerned about the noises she can hear like
children playing and will often hide behind the flower pots. She is
quite a character and joins me on the sofa slowly stretching out
so within 10 minutes she has most of the room.
Sarah Parry
1
www.hallgreenrgt.co.uk
A Sticky Ending
It’s such a great feeling whenever one of our dogs gets reserved and then rehomed.
“It’s the best things about being a volunteer with the Trust,” said one regular dog
walker. But nothing pleases us more than when one of our “sticky dogs” finds that
loving forever home, and none more so than our resident class clown, Benny, who
had been waiting for a home for 6 months.
Benny had proven too bouncy for many who came to view, but when Ian and Kirsty
Wilton visited the kennels just after the New Year holiday, they asked specifically for
a dog who had been in kennels for a long time or who was proving more difficult to
home (we love it when that happens!) and we’re so pleased that Benny has settled
in so well….
We had the pleasure of taking Benny back with us on Saturday and we are
pleased to say that he has settled in really well, particularly fond of the sofa!
No problems at night, nor toileting or his food. He is learning with his walking
and this morning, he has already started walking by our side so it won’t be
long before he has mastered that.
We are both really pleased with the way he has settled in and the joy already
he has given us. He really likes his cuddles and licks as well. He also gets on
with his dog walker (they met yesterday) and he has just got back from his
mid day walk with him now and there were no problems at all...
Many thanks Ian & Kirsty
BIRTHDAY BASH
What do you get a greyhound lover for their birthday?
Why, a greyhound birthday bash, of course. When Diane Merton turned 60 earlier
this year, she decided to celebrate with like-minded greyhound fanatics and
organized a dog show at Waseley Hills Country Park, judged by Meadowcroft’s
very own Ele Rea. Thank you to all the stall holders who turned
out on the day to support Diane and the Trust.
Diane is one of HG RGT’s regular and dedicated volunteers who tirelessly walks
kennel dogs all year round, come rain or shine. Diane has also fostered several
of our hounds and gave our ex-sponsor dog, Suzie, a loving forever home.
Thanks to Diane for organizing a smashing day out, which included several of
our kennel dogs, human and canine supporters and anyone fortunate enough
to be walking their dogs in the Country Park
that day.
The weather was kind until the very end but
it takes more than a little rain to dampen
the spirits of greyhound owners and their
dogs who all enjoyed a birthday sausage
kindly supplied by Beryl Healey (our regular
“sausage lady” at our monthly walk – we
continue to be amazed that Beryl still has all
her fingers!) So next time you’re stuck for a
birthday present for that greyhound lover in
your life, you know what to do…..
2
LORD MAYOR SUPPORTS HG RGT
We were extremely pleased that The Lord
Mayor and the Lady Mayoress of Birmingham,
John and Kath Lines, found time in their busy
schedules to opend HG RGT’s annual dog in
October 2012. As devoted greyhound lovers
themselves, they shared their experiences
before cutting the ribbon to the delight of the
crowd.
“As a greyhound owner myself, Hall Green Retired Greyhound Trust is
a charity I am very happy to support. In November 2007, after losing
my much loved Labrador, my wife suggested that we visit the recently
opened greyhound rehoming kennels near Belbroughton. It proved to
be a Red Letter day for me & one I have never regretted.
We were shown a couple of hounds and then a beautiful fawn bitch
called Rosie aka Treanaree Laura came along & jumped straight into
the back of my vehicle and in space of five seconds I was hooked,
she stole my heart immediately & continues to delight me every day.
She has brought untold pleasure to all the family so easygoing with
my grandchildren, well behaved where ever we go and an ideal
companion.
Mayor Of Birmingham John Lines & Rosie
As a breed greyhounds are known for their placid, lazy nature, which is in complete contrast to their sporting ability, and have become
far more popular as pets in the last few years. This is due to the admirable work performed by dedicated volunteers to promote
ex-racing greyhounds as pets and to find loving and secure permanent homes for the numerous dogs that retire each year.
Many of the Hall Green RGT volunteers have been with the trust for several years continuing with the good work whilst holding down full
time jobs.their obvious enthusiasm & affection for the hounds is heartwarming.
So it is with great pleasure and in appreciation of their commitment that I am here today to support the 2012 Hall Green Retired
Greyhound Dog Show.”
MALE VOICE CHOIR
Many thanks to Lynda Hill for organising another fab night of music with the Cradley Heath Male Voice Choir on November 17th and
Ted Tisdale for enlisting the help of the choir to raise funds for HG RGT. Ted and his wife own one of HG’s ex-racing hounds and are
keen supporters of the Trust.
If you didn’t manage to go, you missed a great night, so watch the website and FB for details for next year’s gig. This is the second time
the Choir has put on the event (hopefully there will be a third?) and it had a lovely, friendly, cosy atmosphere. They raised an impressive
£300 thanks to the Choir putting on this wonderful show. Thanks to everyone that attended, to our volunteers Alison and friend who
worked so hard serving refreshments and those who sold raffle tickets.
To quote one happy customer, “It was a great night, really glad we went. They were so talented and so entertaining….looking forward
to next year’s already.”
3
www.hallgreenrgt.co.uk
(special thanks
to Rose Morgan) October 7th was a lovely sunny day. We all like to have a bit of fun
SHOW
put in so much time in organising the HG RGT annual fun dog show,
NAL D
O
NU
G
“Come rain or shine” the poster said and fortunately for all those dedicated volunteers who
R
HG GT A
ANNUAL Dog Show
with our dogs and HG RGT’s Fun Dog Show emphasizes the word “fun” with classes for both
greyhounds and non-greyhounds.
There were prizes for the fastest recall (where greyhounds can re-live their glory days, or not) for both
hounds and other breeds. Rosettes were won, cakes were eaten, stunning professional photos taken
(by David Yanez), agility course attempted, and ribbons cut by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham (see
re-print of his opening speech elsewhere in this edition) and a good time was had by all…but pictures
are worth a thousand words so enjoy the collage we have put together from the day.
4
National
News
As we approach the end of another successful year for RGT
I wanted to provide you all with a review of some of our
activities and an update on how things have gone in 2012:
Rehoming
2012
has
undoubtedly
challenging
year
for
been
a
rehoming
and we have experienced a slight
slowdown against last year’s figures,
in common with many other charities.
The economy has made things
tough and the Olympics and other
major events this year no doubt
distracted many households from
Pe te r L au ri e
Chief Executive
thinking about a new pet. Of course
the wet summer did not help either,
with many shows and events, such as the CLA Game Fair, completely washed
out or cancelled. But nevertheless, there have been a great many highlights with
many branches having homed more greyhounds to the end of November this year
than in the whole of 2011 and some really encouraging rehoming returns in March,
June and September. In the New Year I will let you know of the final rehoming
figure as soon as we have it but I expect it will be in the region of 3,800.
Of course it is not just about numbers, it is about the quality of the homes found
too and I know that thanks to all your efforts to so carefully match each greyhound
with a suitable home, our return rate is much lower than many other organisations.
And with far fewer greyhounds being bred for racing these days and fewer
Rehoming, such a great feeling.
greyhounds entering and leaving the sport, the percentage enjoying a retirement
in a loving home is probably as high as it has ever been.
Homer
The next edition of Homer will go to print in March. The most
recent edition in August/September incorporated a number of
design and content changes and it would be great to receive any
more feedback and ideas for how we can continue to improve the
newsletter. The promotion of 16 long-stay greyhounds was very
successful, with a number of the greyhounds featured now in loving
homes and this is something we can repeat in the future.
Please send stories, photos and news items, fundraising successes
or questions for the “Veterinary Corner” for the next edition to
[email protected] by mid-February and we
will do our best to include as many as possible.
5
www.hallgreenrgt.co.uk
National News continued...
Promotion and Events
be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yY0yGbuhEDA)
It has been a particularly busy year on the PR and media front. and another highlighting the Trust’s presence at the recent
In April we held a sale of ladies scarves at the Spirit of Summer
Discover Dogs event in London, that includes Samuel’s screen
show at London Olympia, raising funds and securing publicity
debut! (see: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3bf2QMRnNc)
thanks to Twiggy’s involvement with the pre-event publicity.
Incidentally, this year’s Discover Dogs attracted a record crowd
The launch of Racing Post TV that broadcasts live racing on
in the 14 year history of the event and the RGT stands were
Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings has given RGT new
particularly busy throughout the weekend. In addition, the Trust
exposure with the show running an RGT advert at regular
was represented at Crufts, the 50+ Show, the London Pet Show
intervals, a “Greyhound of the Week” feature in the Racing Post
and the London Vet Show, that featured a CPD session for vets
newspaper promoting an individual greyhound in the care of one
on racing and retired greyhound veterinary issues.
of the branches and Amanda and I appeared on the show in
August to talk about the Trust’s work.
The Greyhound Extravaganza in May coincided with one of the
hottest days of the year but it was once again well attended, as
We have also received tremendous support from SKY Sports, who
was the Great Greyhound Gathering in September. My thanks to
have filmed and broadcast several promotional pieces, including
all the volunteers and branches who helped make both events
a great feature on Uri Geller and his love of greyhounds (can
such successes.
In November the Trust attended the British Veterinary Nursing Association Annual Congress in
Telford. Our Chairman, Andrew Higgins, gave the Keynote Address to delegates and the three day
event provided a fantastic opportunity for RGT to meet nurses from across the country and was a
culmination of a year of promotional and fundraising support from the Association. It is definitely an
event we will return to in 2013.
We have put a lot of work into strengthening our online presence
awareness of our work and the suitability of greyhounds as
with new features and functionality added to our website, that
pets and to attract new supporters. We have secured some
has seen the number of unique visitors increase by over 50% in
really good coverage across a range of media, including a
the last two years. A new facility for visitors to locate their nearest
slot on the Alan Titchmarsh show on ITV1 and editorial
branch by simply entering their postcode has proved particularly
in several national papers.
popular. Our social media platforms have been developed and
we have seen rapid growth in the number of followers to our
Twitter (www.twitter.com/rgt_uk) and Facebook pages (www.
facebook.com/rgtrust)
We have refreshed, redesigned and reprinted a number of our
promotional and fundraising leaflets and have introduced new
show and exhibition equipment and graphics to help maximise
impact and strengthen our brand. In September we ran a short
advertising campaign in the Daily Mail and Daily Telegraph to raise
Looking Ahead to 2013, there
is much to look forward to. Dates have now been agreed
with the venues for the Greyhound Extravaganza, that will
celebrate the work of the RGT branches in the East of England
We’re one of only a
handful of charities
to have been
selected to benefit
from the new Pets
At Home VIP Club
(https://vip.petsathome.com/Club.aspx)
From a personal perspective, I am really looking forward to
visiting those branches I am yet to visit and there are several
exciting new initiatives that we will be unveiling in the next
few months.
and will take place at the Animal Health Trust, Newmarket on
Finally, and most importantly, can I thank you and all your
Sunday 26th May and the Great Greyhound Gathering,
volunteer colleagues for everything you have done in
that will return to Nottingham Racecourse on Saturday 21st
2012. Awareness of the work of RGT and the suitability of
September. Before then, the Trust will be well represented at
greyhounds as pets continues to rise and everyone here
Crufts at the NEC from 7-10th March. If you are interested in
in Worcester Park looks forward to working with you in
attending, or helping on the RGT stand, please let me know.
2013 to help many more greyhounds.
GIGGING FOR GREYHOUNDS
Following on from last year’s successful event
Move who, of course, feature Trevor
Trevor Burton and friends gigged for greyhounds
and Bev Bevan. It was a fantastic
at a live music event at Hall Green Stadium on
evening with appearances by the
Thursday 6th September 2012 . Trevor has an ex-
well-known Birmingham musicians.
racing greyhound, Tina, re-homed from the Perry
The concert generated a grand
Barr branch of the RGT and Trevor wanted to help
total £1,500+ which was split 50/50
the two charities that he says are very close to his
between Hall Green.
heart - Daybreaks Kennels and Hall Green Retired
✁
Greyhound Trust.
The banqueting suite at the stadium and the finger
The Second Annual Trevor Burton Charity Night
with their events. A massive thank-you to Trevor Burton, his promotional team Jan and
featured: Suzi and The Backbeats; King Pleasure
John Davis, who organised the whole show, all the backroom backroom and stadium
and The Biscuit Boys; The Trevor Burton Band,
staff. It was a wonderful evening and we truly appreciate your support.
of course, and (naturally if you know a bit about
See you next year?
buffet were kindly donated by the stadium owners who are always happy to help the RGT
Christina Fowler
Trevor’s long and distinguished musical career) The
KENNEL NEWS
If you’d like to receive hard copies of the Kennel News quarterly through the post
over the next 12 months, please return the form, together with a cheque for £12.00, made out to Hall Green RGT, and to
send to: Kennel News, c/o 177 Westridge Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham B13 0EB.
Name:............................................................................................................................................
Date:..............................................
Address:....................................................................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................
Postcode:............................................
Email Address:..........................................................................................................................................................................................
Please share with family, friends,and colleagues or leave in a willing vet’s surgery to spread the word about the work of the Trust
SPOOKTACULA TURNOUT
Mwhahaha…
witches, ghosts and goblins (and one
raffle but let not forget the Sherlocks,
ghostbuster) were out in force at the Waselely Hills for the
Spriggs’, the Thompsons, the Birch
annual HG RGT Halloween Spooktacula on Sunday October
family, Diane Merton, Tracey Parbery, and
28th. This event is fast becoming a regular get-together to
others who created the right atmosphere
celebrate Halloween, greyhound-style and raise a few funds
with their spooky decorations.
for our favourite charity.
led us, ably as ever, on the walk and judged the
Diane Bowen
competitions.
Thanks to everyone who turned came for the walk and
especially to all those humans and canines who added to the
Good fun, good people, and good spirit. The
spirit (geddit?) of the day by coming in fancy dress. (It never
costumes will take some beating next year so get
amazes us how tolerant our breed actually is – parading
your thinking caps on!
around as giant spiders, ghosts, vampires etc.) Pumpkin
carving skills this year were second to none.
Special mention to Clive Parbery (who definetly
needs to enter the next round of the Great
British Bake-off) with spooky Halloween cake to
7
Quiz night
The Quiz Night and Fish and Chip Supper was a great success. Over
50 people attended to test their general knowledge. Fish and Chips ,
followed by mince pies and muffins were consumed and enjoyed and
brain cells challenged and exercised with a fun quiz.
A huge thanks to Ele Rea for organising the evening on behalf of HG
RGT and NMC Midlands. A grand total of £400 was raised to be split
between the two charities. A special thanks to everyone who donated prizes for the
raffle and set up and stayed to help with the tidying up….great team work and a very successful evening and thanks again to everyone
for the generosity. The monies raised for HG RGT is helping improve the beds in the kennels with volunteer, Alison Willis busily sealing
and caulking her heart out to make the beds comfier and fresher.
HAVING A BALL
Advance Notice: This year’s annual Greyhound Ball will be held on Sunday April 21st at
Hall Green Stadium. This is one of our major fundraising events of the year (and a good
excuse to dust off your posh frocks, dickie bows and dancing shoes).
If last year’s ball was anything to go by, make sure you pencil it into
your diaries now – Please watch the website and Facebook pages for
more details or contact Simon Gray on: 0797 4707217.
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
What a wonderful turnout for the Waseley Walk & HGRGT Christmas Bazaar
despite the wintry conditions. Thanks to everyone who came along to support us.
A massive ‘Thank You’ to the dedicated volunteers who worked so hard to ensure
that this event was a success...Arthur & Jenny, Sue & Gary, Alison & Phillippa,
Alison from our kennels, George & Brenda, Jenny Jones, & Tracey & Clive for
photos, and Clive for baking and icing the Christmas cake to raffle, Diane Bowenwalk leader, Beryl the sausage lady & all the great cooks who supplied the cakes.
Your valued support at the Bazaar & during the past year is appreciated by us all.
Special Thanks to David Yanez (Professional Photographer) whose
exceptional photos of the happy re-homed hounds at the Christmas
walk were superb & greatly admired by their loving owners.
An impressive array of greyhounds and canine friends turned up to get some fresh air and
exercise to combat the holiday excesses - 110 dogs in total. We can truthfully say that there
is not much than can match the sight of all those dogs heading up the hill together and
hardly a bark between them. What a great breed with great owners, we have all chosen to
share our lives with. We at HG RGT feel truly blessed by your continuing support.
8
GREYHOUND HEALTH - CORNS
Most greyhound owners will have heard of corns as they commonly occur in greys although other breeds sometimes
get them too. One theory is that greyhounds have a lack of cushioning fatty tissue in their toe pads making them more
susceptible to corns and certainly the condition seems more painful for our chosen breed. Corns often get misdiagnosed
as musco-skeletal problems particularly by vets unfamiliar with greyhounds so do mention it when you talk to the vet.
Paul and Kate Elkin thought it would be useful to our readers to share their experience with their lovely girl Diva.
Over a period of 2-3 weeks, our beautiful 7 ½ year old greyhound, Diva, started to carry one paw when we were out walking. It
seemed to be happening when walking on hard uneven ground particularly pebbly surfaces; she was fine walking on soft grass.
We did the obvious thing and repeatedly checked her paw and pads and couldn’t see a thing; she didn’t flinch, wasn’t licking her paw
or seem in any discomfort. Until, one day she didn’t want to go for her usual walk and was feeling very sorry for herself, she looked
so sad (usual greyhound face) and had lost her spark. This was so out of character so off to the vets we went.
The vet diagnosed a corn. Two days later she went under general
anaesthetic (gulp) for them to dig the corn out of the pad (ouch). Several
redressed bandages and a walking ban for 2 weeks and she was
absolutely fine. A word of warning, Greyhounds are prone to corns
and they cause an immense amount of pain. (Clearly Diva had
been wearing the wrong shoes!).
The vet was unable to give us any advice on how we may be able to
prevent the corn from reappearing but we do mix her walks, some road
walking to keep the nails down and some walks on soft grass. The cost
has been covered by Petplan, thank goodness for pet insurance!
As you can see from the pictures, she’s fine but we thought it was worth
sharing our experiences with you.
Kate and Paul Elkin and the lovely Diva
STICKY DOG - LOLA
SEX: Female
COLOUR: Black
BIRTHDAY: July 2004
At eight years of age, Lola should be in a home curled up on a soft sofa in front of a
toasty fire or warm radiator having spent all her life in kennels.
Lola is young at heart, however and is inquisitive on her walks (well wouldn’t you if
you’ve never seen the big wide world?) so a bit of lead training is in order for little miss
enthusiastic.
A lovely girl, Lola doesn’t really push herself forward when visitors come to call, but
please don’t overlook this little black beauty (ok salt and pepper beauty). She’ll make
a lovely companion dog for the right person to share her retirement with.
9
www.hallgreenrgt.co.uk
PICTURE PERFECT
Some of you may already be aware of David Yanez and the wonderful photographs
he takes of greyhounds through seeing him at the Dog Show in October and the
Christmas Waseley Walk. He took the picture of the Lord Mayor and his grey, Rosie,
doing the fastest recall on the track at he show. David is keen to support the RGT
and we have asked him to come to one of our upcoming coffee mornings (watch
the website and FB for details) to take some pics and give us amateurs a few tips
on photographing our hounds. Anyone who has tried will know that most greys look
anywhere except at the camera!
To view or buy some of the pics that David took at the dog
show check out: http://yan-photography.smugmug.com/
HallGreenDogs/Hall-Green-RGT-Charity-Day
We asked David to let us know a little more about himself:
“ I have been obsessed by the greyhound breed for over 20 years now, recently I lost my retired racer ‘Wollopiton”
who I bought at 16 months old and he passed away after a wonderful life aged 12...it broke my heart.
I absolutely love photographing greyhounds either in action or at a more leisurely retired pace and have all the
time in the world for the wonderful people that recognise this gentle and noble breed.
My passion is my photography and I always aim to get the message across that these wonderful canines are just
the best breed for a happy, stable home and reward their owners in so many ways. I am currently waiting for my latest retired grey to finish his career and come to his forever home with me. I
designed and run many greyhound websites including the re-homing site Castledon Greyhound Rescue who
do such a wonderful job as does all the branches of the RGT.
Photographs tell a thousand words and through this medium I hope to spread the word for the racing greyhound…
it’s an addiction, a passion, a belonging and long may it continue.”
MUSIC FOR MAX
Max Smith (aka Bluetooth) was one special hound who had quite a
Ben teamed up with Eddie Morton to form new act Murphy’s Law
following in the Stourbridge area. Max was owned by local musician
and with other local musicians/friends to provide a fitting tribute
Ben Smith, who after Max died, decided to raise money for Max’s
to Max with their foot stomping, feel good music. Landlady, Trina
kindred spirits still in kennels, by hosting a Max Smith Memorial Gig
Keane, is a real animal lover and she joined in with Murphy’s Law
at Katie Fitzgerald’s Pub in Stourbridge on Friday, November 23rd.
and the audience enjoyed her set. It was refreshing to find a pub that
Ben said that Max was such a character – he had many fans and
allows dogs in – including for Max’s charity night.
used to lie on stage at Ben’s gigs. Max had quite a mischievous
side too, and his life was beautifully captured in a picture book put
together by Ben’s friends and presented to him on the night. A truly
special moment.
One of Max’s best friends, a giant Malamute, stopped by to pay
tribute, and Reg one of HG RGT’s regular ambassador’s was in his
element, making the rounds, leaning on members of the audience
and generally putting his best paw forward to let people know what
excellent pets greyhounds make hopefully encouraging concert
goers to put that little bit more in the bucket. A total of around £350
was raised although the funds are still coming in from the collection
tins left on the bar over the holidays. We’d like to thank Ben so much
for letting us share in the celebration of Max’s life and for putting on
the wonderful night that was a fitting tribute to a special dog and at
the same time thought about about the others greys still in kennels.
10
PAWS FOR THOUGHT (note from the editor)
Patience, grace and dignity – three things that I have learned
components of my heart will be animal and I will become
from my senior greyhounds. Sadly two of them crossed
as generous and loving as they are.”
over Rainbow Bridge in October and December. Ironically
our first and oldest, age 13, is still curled up in his bed
next to the radiator, still enjoying his food and short walks.
I hope, valued readers, you will forgive that this edition of
the kennel news is so long overdue; my attentions have
been elswhere and the two greyhound-sized holes left in
So I’d like to end this piece with an appeal. We have a
number of older dogs in kennels at the moment and a
some more on the waiting list. We have 2 seniors (age 8
or over), Lola and Acer. Please consider adopting an older
dog and give them the chance to be loved as someone’s
our lives have been overwhelming.
pet before they leave us for Rainbow Bridge.
The loss of my two beloved hounds has prompted me to
Lauren Hirst
think about the love of old dogs, their grey muzzles and
funny ways, and how the love of a dog enriches our lives. If
you have the love of an animal for just one day then that is
the best day of your life. I’ve heard it said that until one has
been adopted and loved by a Greyhound, a part of one’s
soul remains asleep. So true.
To celebrate OLDER GREYHOUNDS, we’d
love you to send in you’r photos for our latest
competition - BEST GREY MUZZLE.
We often hear people say they want a young dog or a
puppy because they live longer. Of course the problem
Please send in entries to
with ALL dogs is that they NEVER live long enough. Time
[email protected]
may be short but the love is long. I know in time there will
by the end of march. We’ll publish all entries
another grey to love and I remember the quote, “Every
and announce the winner in the next edition of
time I lose an animal, they take a piece of my heart with
the Kennel News. LOOKING FORWARD TO
them. And every new animal who comes into my life, gifts
SEEING PICS OF ALL YOUR SENIORS!
me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all the
WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE
Despite having to cancel HG RGT’s first ever Coffee Morning that was due to
happen on Sunday January 20th due to inclement weather, we are undeterred
and we’ve rescheduled for Sunday March 17th at 11am.
Join us for a cuppa tea or coffee, some yummy cakes, get your greys
nails trimmed and learn about some basic training techniques from
Meadowcroft’s Ele Rea if you’re having a spot of bother with other
breeds of dogs or pulling on the lead etc. If you’ve ever wondered
what clicker training is all about, Ele plans to do an entertaining demo
you won’t forget.
So come along for a chat with other like-minded greyhound owners,
stock up on some merchandise, and help us plan what you want us to
do on future coffee mornings. In our experience, put together a bunch of
greyhound lovers and there’s never a shortage of interesting and amusing
tales to tell, and things to learn, so come along and join in the fun.
See you there.
11
www.hallgreenrgt.co.uk
AUTUMN SPONSORED RACE NIGHTS
Many thanks to all you wonderful supporters who sponsored
Hall Green Retired Greyhound Trust
a race and/or trap or came along with your gorgeous greys
do appreciate your participation
to join the adopted hounds parade on Friday & Saturday
in
evening of October 26th and 27th at Hall Green Stadium.
it all helps in promoting our
Everyone enjoyed the experience & the sponsored weekend
re-homing
was a huge success financially as it is one of our biggest
raise much needed funds that
fundraisers in the year and critical to our financial viability.
enables us to carry on our work.
these
types
of
events.
objectives
and
HELP
OUR
HOUNDS
We are also very grateful to the kind people who came along to help out by selling raffle tickets & merchandise, to Ele Rea and friends
for entertaining us all with the non-greyhound race (hurdles this time) and the hardy souls who take part in the human foot race. Last
but certainly not least a huge thank you to HG RGT’s chairman Simon Gray who each year takes on the monumental task
of organising this important event.
If you would like to support the next sponsored race nights in March 2103 please contact Simon Gray
on: 0797 4707217. Sponsoring a trap is just £10 (and win a bottle of wine if you trap wins) and £100 to sponsor a
race (you get to name the race and present the trophy). Your Trust needs you - please give Simon a ring.
STUDENTS SUPPORT GREYHOUNDS
Sixth formers from Oldbury Academy chose HG RGT as their charity
samosas to the children around
after hearing about us from their teacher Dave Pittam, who is an
school, and then we started
owner of 2 lovely HG RGT greyhounds, Joey and Holly. So a big thank
taking orders from teachers
you to Mr Pittam and his students. Lord Sugar needs to watch out –
for samosas. Their samosas
these enterprising students are definitely Young Apprentice material
were
– we just loved the samosa idea (do they deliver to Belbroughton?)
their chosen destination. We
Student Makham Sumal (year 13) tells us about their project:
At the start of the new school year every tutor group was given one
hundred pounds to raise as much money as they could for their
chosen charity. After talking with our form members (6DAP), we
chose Hall Green Retired Greyhound Trust.
We then came up with a couple ideas and how to carry them out, our
first idea was a charity raffle. The winning prize was a chocolate tree,
which one of the form member’s parents kindly donated (Lily Mitchell),
and the runner up prizes were selection of boxes chocolates. We then
sold raffle tickets around school to teachers as well as students.
I then entered the Birmingham Half Marathon and was sponsored by
students, teachers and family members, which raised £135 towards
our total. These two ideas stood us in good stead for the rest of our
fundraising.
We then came up with the idea of buying in samosas and selling them
in school, which raised us a large amount of money. Firstly we sold
delivered
weekly,
at
then carried on this idea for
a further 10 weeks, and this
idea was becoming more
popular every week in some
cases selling 130 samosas to
staff alone.
The last fundraising idea that
our form group chose was the charity dog walk at the kennels. The
charity dog walk gave us the chance to look at the kennels and seen
where the money we raised was going to. It also gave us the chance
to take the dogs for a walk and meet some of the volunteers who are
closely involved in the charity.
We have now raised £1000 and look forward to presenting the Trust
with a cheque when they come to visit us in school in January. A few
of us have also been back to the kennels to help walk
the dogs on a Saturday and hope to continue this
when we can (part time jobs permitting).
12
CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO DOG-LINESS
HGRGT Open Day & Greyhound Wash Session at
was lovely for visitors to meet and greet the kennel dogs who
Meadowcroft re-homing Kennels was a sparkling success
just loved all the fuss and attention they got.
with a fabulous turnout...many thanks to all who came along
to view our hounds & support us. Thanks to every one of our
incredible volunteers who turned up to ensure that the event
ran smoothly...your commitment to HGRGT & the greyhounds
Also our appreciation goes to Ron for effortlessly directing
traffic & successfully controlling the parking pitches…not one
mishap occurred although numerous vehicles were entering
is impressive & highly valued by us all.
& leaving the site all day. Last but not least thanks and special
Many thanks also to Ele, Alison, Joanne, Jaime & all who
& organise the event & never wavered in her belief that it would
assisted with the Marathon Greyhound washing stint which
be a great success and worked so closely with Ele ...Well
ran from 9.00am till 6.00pm. Be assured, HGRGT do
done to all the participants...although too many to name, you
appreciate your generosity in helping out during your free
know who you are & we couldn’t have done it without any one
time. Let’s not forget Karen Bayliss & her crew busy all day
of you..What a Team.
serving refreshments & selling the enormous amount of home
baked cakes donated by some very talented cooks. Karen
deserves an Olympic Cheer for remaining at her post pouring
mention to Rose Morgan who had the imagination to suggest
(We were so inspired by the success of this day that we’re
starting up regular coffee mornings with the help of Ele and co
tea for over 6 hours.
and the unstoppable Karen Bayliss). The day raised around
The various stall and stall holders added to the fun and colour
last – eight greyhounds were re-homed as a result of a
of the day and let not forget all those greyhounds who got the
really greyt day!!!
chance to have a good blast around the large paddocks for a
donation. Thanks to all who gave up their time to run a stall. It
an incredible £900 but we’ve saved the best news for
JUST IN: DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND THIS EVENT
WILL BE REPEATED ON Sunday 28th JULY 2013
Deborah Durey writes: “We had a lovely time down there. Treated our 3 greys to a big bone each, a run in the field and a
funny body jacket each. We had tea and cakes and my children won lots of prizes on the tombola! A good time had by all.
Thank you to all who put so much effort into the event!”
Mark Harvey added: “Lacey (formally Lassie) had a nice time back at the ranch. Expected her to fly around the paddock
but she was happy with a canter and a lot of sniffing. My daughter Poppy (4) stroked every dog there, every one. Thank you
and see you again”
Jenny Matthews sent thanks: “It was a great day and lovely for our Gally to run around the paddock with some new friends!
Glad to hear that so many that we saw in the kennels will be going to their forever homes soon”
And Theresa Randall said, “Had a fab afternoon. Bought lots of goodies for my beautiful grey Taci (formerly Freckle) Met
new and old friends. Want to thank Everyone at Hall Green for a wonderful time. So much hard work put into these events.”
13
www.hallgreenrgt.co.uk
Thought for the Day
Events
“If I had a pound for every time my dog made
me smile, I’d be a millionaire” - Anon
SAT 26th JAN - 7:30pm
Raffle Night Hall Green Stadium
THURS 7th MAR till 10th SUNDAY
CRUFTS - NEC
SUN 27th JAN - 10:30 -1pm
WORCESTER WALK, Worcester Woods,
Country Park WR5 2LG
SUN 10th MAR - WASELEY WALK
SUN 10th FEB - 10:30 -1pm
WASELEY WALK, Waseley Hills,
Country Park B45 9AT
SAT 23rd FEB - Stadium Raffle
SUN 24th FEB - WORCESTER WALK
SUN 17th MAR -11-1pm
Coffee Morning at the Kennels
SUN 24th MAR - WORCESTER WALK
FRI 29th MAR - 7:30pm
Stadium Raffle & Sponsored Race Night
SAT 30th MAR - 7:30pm
Stadium Raffle & Sponsored Race Night
Life begins at 40… Kate’s sponsored walk in aid of HG RGT
As the big 40 was fast approaching….. (lets just concentrate on the
to our friends that came to the pub (did your legs ache too?) and to all
charity bit for now) I thought it would be good to do something for our
those kind and generous people who sponsored me…..together we
absolute favourite charity – HG RGT.
raised a fabulous £335.00!!!
I decided on a 10 walk (whilst I still can) finishing at a pub afterwards
See, turning 40 isn’t that bad, so from me and the kennel dogs, a huge
(ok, ok, it’s called good planning; well we’d need food and drink
thank you. We all enjoyed it so much, were going to do it again! Date
afterwards). My lovely husband Paul, planned a 10 mile circular route
for your diary – Sunday 3rd March 2013 meeting at 9.00am at
starting at the Lock Inn, Wolverley taking us around the outskirts of
the Lock Inn Wolverly. Everyone welcome, join us on the walk or
Wolverley, Kinver Edge, Caunsall and Cookley, my home turf where
come for a late lunch at the pub.
I grew up.
We still have the same group of friends, families and colleagues who
So, several emails, text and facebook messages later inviting our
so generously donate to the RGT but it’s difficult to keep asking the
friends to join us on the walk and/or the pub afterwards……no
same people. So in March it will be more of a get together, all we ask
guesses which was going to be the most popular, off we went, Paul
is you make a £5 donation to HG RGT to join us, we might even do a
& me, Karen Rowberry and our friend Peter Baxter who much to our
raffle on the day too. Nearer the time, I will put something on the HG
amusement as we set off muttered ‘I have even got a greyhound’!.
Facebook and website, we will need to know numbers so we can book
Despite heavy rain being forecast, the day itself was beautiful, foggy
a table at the Lock.
but dry. We began, through Wolverley round past Drakelow tunnels
Walk or pub, your choice, I know which one I’ll be choosing!
onto Kinver Edge. At the top of Kinver Edge we stopped for lunch,
you can normally see 5 counties from here it’s a beautiful spot Staffordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Herefordshire and West
Midlands, but because of the fog all we could see was our lunch! The
sun came out for the 2nd leg, it was muddy in places but ok, through
the woods, along the footpaths onto the canal at Cookley and back to
the Lock at Wolverly, 12 miles in total (don’t ask, sorry Paul!).
What a fabulous welcome, 14 of our friends had turned up at the pub
which was fabulous. We kicked off our muddy shoes, enjoyed a well
deserved pint (s), had a great natter and a lovely meal together. My
birthday celebrations had started. My thanks to Paul for planning the
route (even if it was 12 miles not 10), to Karen and Peter for joining us,
HG RGT wish to Thank Kate & Paul for their very sucessful
fundraising event celebrating Kate’s Big Day with a
sponsored walk. They raised a total of £340.00.
Kate Elkin
called Long Face, Coopsy (which I really
like) Doggo or Pooper Cooper (for obvious
reasons). I used to be called Cheryle as
my racing name was ‘Rock-It Cheryle’
which is, to be honest, a bit of a mouthful
when trying to get my attention on walks.
I’ve been re-homed for nearly two months
now and I wanted to let everyone know
how happy I am.
My new parents have been brilliant and
very patient - even though I’ve tested them
Roma
Meet Our NEW
SPONSOR DOG
Roma
Roma was found emaciated, mangy, and abandoned in
someone’s garden. A local lady took her in and looked after
her for awhile but then she fractured all her toes in a rabbit’s
hole and was later brought to the Trust. Roma’s front leg turns
outwards like ballerina’s due to previous injuries and she has
arthritis from a previous break. Roma will need major surgery
in the future to live pain free. Hopefully we can make up for
her awful start in life.
regularly! I get taken for lots of nice walks
and get loads of huge hugs and attention
every day. When we go out for walks, I
tend to get a lot of attention from other
people, too. Apparently, I’m a “beautiful
hound” so it’s to be expected.
A Happy Homing
My name is Cooper. Sometimes I get
I settled in very quickly which lulled them
into a false sense of security. This allowed me to unleash
my mischievous side when they least expected it! Even
though I’ve caused lots of trouble, I still get lots of love
in return!
I have a nice big garden that I can explore and practice
my starts in (once a racer, always a racer) as well as
a lovely big blanket made of the finest duck feathers
which I get to make a nest out of and a lovely carpeted
kennel with a huge beanbag which I don’t use because I
prefer to be on my blanket in the living room - preferably
listening to John Suchet on Classic FM. I do enjoy a bit
of Korsakov and Beethoven!
Likes: Having fun, making new friends, lots of fuss
I’m much happier now I have a stable home, although
Dislikes: Being told to take it steady
I am very grateful for the kind people who looked after
Please can you help the Trust look after Roma?
If you’d like to sponsor Roma for yourself or as a
gift for an animal lover, please visit our website:
www.hallgreenrgt.co.uk/sponsor.html
to download a sponsor form. Alternatively phone
us on 0121
426 4810 and a
sponsor form will be sent out
to you by post.
Tel: 0121
426 4810
Web: www.hallgreenrgt.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
me at the kennels. I hope you’re all well and having fun
in my absence. I’ll see you all again from time to time.
Bye for now.
Cooper