Peace on Earth - Greyhound Friends Inc.

photo by Kay Sadighi Birch Hill Farm, Richmond, MA
Peace on Earth
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167 Saddle Hill Road, Hopkinton MA 01748
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BOSTON, MASS
PERMIT NO. 50218
The Home Stretch
G R E Y H O U N D
F R I E N D S
N E W S L E T T E R ,
D E C E M B E R
2 0 0 6
From the Director
Inside
From the Director • 1
Getting to know Tally • 2
Whisper • 3
Tiger - Tigerdog • 4 & 5
Memorable Greyhounds • 6
I was a Greyhound Skeptic • 6
Advertising Greyhounds • 7
Boutique & Catalog • 9
the Mail Bag • 8 & 9
Greyhounds looking for a home • 10
Board of Directors, Wish List • 10
Catalog On-Line
Greyhound Friends’ website www.greyhound.org
has a link to our catalog where you can
shop for dogs and people, or call
508-435-5969 to order.
Vol. 15, No. 1
The Home Stretch is a publication
of Greyhound Friends, Inc.
Address
Phone
Fax
Email
Web site
Editor
167 Saddle Hill Road
Hopkinton MA 01748
508.435.5969
508.435.0547
[email protected]
www.greyhound.org
Bill Meirs
[email protected]
Design
Karen Meirs
Illustration Sheila Butler
Best Wishes!!!
Greyhound Friends has been honored with many wonderful greyhound 'residents'
this year - several tracks in New England closed for the season this Fall - we have
been really busy. The dogs come in - are spayed/neutered, have all their vet work
done, and then are off to new homes. Sometimes when I am driving to do
errands or to a meeting I see our alumni walking down the street with their people
- it is an encouraging experience. We are devoting this newsletter to memorable
dogs - it is hard to select just a few - the ones we include represent the whole cast
of characters who have passed through our adoption kennel over the years. Both
the dogs and the people adopting them are a cast of thousands, and as our friend
Rose Condon says... they all show up.
Most thankfully, Greyhound Friends has been named in several wills this year.
Just as I am pondering, intensely, where the money will come from - word arrives
of a bequest. This in conjunction with kind, on-going donations make our work
possible. By remembering the greyhounds in their wills people are still in a way
living - present - they influence the day to day contingencies of our work.
In addition to memorable dogs Greyhound Friends is blessed with memorable
people, as idiosyncratic as the dogs. When I have time to reflect on the impact
many people have on the progress our organization makes I am pleased and
impressed. Joyce Wasson has been instrumental in helping build lasting
relationships with donors and in creatively editing our newsletter - the means by
which we tell the on-going ‘whats happening now’ Greyhound Friends' story.
Mary Bent volunteered at the adoption kennel every Sunday morning for over
fifteen years, she helped with the dogs and brought me breakfast - faithfully.
Mary's gentle influence on Sunday mornings is a model of long term volunteer
perseverance. Michael McCann has founded a national, beginning to be
international - network of people who help find lost greyhounds. An exercise in
the power of intention if ever there was one. For more information go to
www.greytalk.com, to the Amber Alert section. Barbara Redmond, Melissa Cook
and Jennifer Saker, all stalwart greyhound adopters, have helped to found
Greyhound Adventures. This new organization coordinates walks for greyhounds;
thereby raising the public’s awareness, and creating an on-going social event for
dogs and people. The other main goal of the group is forming posse’s to look for
lost greyhounds. Working with Michael, this group has been valiant in its efforts.
www.greyhoundadventures.org
We have a dynamic new web site thanks to the work of Pat Hall, our board
member whose positive attitude, love of the greyhounds, and attention to detail
are essential and much appreciated.Kathy Mahoney thoughtfully manages to
constructively weave her generosity into the fabric of the organization particularly in the places that most need shoring up. She has a terrific combination
of a good heart and good taste. The staff at Greyhound Friends is a formidable,
energetic group. Kate Brodeur, Rosemarie Grimes, Sandy Jepsen, Lesley Knott,
Annette Robinson, Katrina Schuh, and Karen Smith. Liz Guglietti, and Lynn
O'Neil are incredibly efficient in our small vet surgery. Martha Boiardi and all
our volunteers are so hard working and good with the dogs. Thank you.
Greyhound Friends lost a true friend this year with Bob Carson's passing. When
I think of him I am often reminded of Harry Truman's comment to the effect
that a great deal gets done when no one demands credit. Bob did an enormous
amount for the greyhounds in his productive, quiet, super intelligent way...
and his good works continue.
I wish you a Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! Happy Hanukkah!
Peace on Earth. Good Will to All.
Getting to know Tally
Tally (OHK Talladega) is a spook, a shy boy, a very
special boy. He's a perfect example of how Greyhound
Friends does not give up on it's dogs and allows them
the time needed to find the right home.
Before Tally came to us he spent almost a year in the
adoption kennel at Greyhound Friends. He then
moved on to two loving foster homes over the course
of eight months, and then to a home that, after two
months, did not work out. When he arrived at our
home, it was supposed to be for just a few days while
his foster family was out of town. He never left us.
There was something about this dog that touched us.
At age ten, he’s been with us six years now and has
come miles in that time. We’ve learned so much from
this Greyhound as we’ve helped him overcome or at
least live with, his fears.
When Tally first moved into our home, he was scared,
withdrawn, and distrustful. He wouldn’t come to us,
he wouldn’t let us approach him, never mind touch
him. Tally would flee to his corner in the upstairs
bedroom if strangers arrived, voices were raised, or
unrecognized noises were heard. He was an expert at
backing up, which was how he reacted to people he
feared, even us, approaching him. He wore a harness
whenever we walked anywhere with him so that we
would not be in danger of losing him if he tried to
back up in his fear.
We decided that first and foremost we needed to give
Tally time. Time to observe his new home, time to
get used to us, time to get used to his surroundings
and routines. Having two other Greyhounds helped a
great deal. They gave Tally confidence and showed
him the ropes. For several months we didn’t require
anything of Tally except that he eat at feeding time
and go out into the yard when he needed to go to the
bathroom. We did not want to pressure him in any
way. We wanted him to get to know us in his own
time. This worked well. Over the first few months, he
slowly began to be comfortable with us. We did not
make direct eye contact with him. To get him to
approach us for a treat we would turn our backs to
him and extend a hand behind us. In this manner, he
would approach and sniff us. Slowly, very slowly, we
progressed to facing Tally, but in a sitting position
and encouraging him to come to us. Hesitantly, he
began to come near us, usually when accompanied by
our other Greyhounds – almost like he was hiding
between them. In this way, we were finally able to
touch him. We could feel his trembling as we lightly
laid our hands on him. We always needed to move
slowly – no fast movements or he’d be gone. But
slowly, if something scared him causing him to flee
the room, he began to come back downstairs to us of
his own free will.
2
As Tally gradually began to
accept us, we wanted to work
with him to face situations that
were uncomfortable for him.
We began taking him places
with us in the car (all our
Greyhounds love to ride). At
first he was scared and trembled
during most of the rides, so we
Tally - Now
kept the rides short, but scheduled
them often. If he seemed too anxious, we would go
home and forget about it for a few days, then start
again. We began walking him in quiet, woody paths
near our home. He would walk behind us with his
head down. But gradually he got used to the walks
and we slowly extended the length of the walks. If,
when we started walking we approached groups of
people or kids playing and making lots of noise, we
would gauge the affect on Tally. If he was a little
uneasy but still seemed okay, we would proceed. If it
seemed too much for him to handle that day we’d
simply turn around. The key for us with Tally was
judging his threshold to various situations – how
much he could handle on a particular day. We learned
early on that some days were better than others. We
had to understand that part of him and have patience.
We needed to be able to know when to push him a
bit and when to let him be. All this we learned from
getting to know him and his personality and carefully
watching his body language.
The most wonderful part of loving Tally is watching
his personality emerge. He is still fearful of strangers
and most times will not allow them to approach him.
But he has learned to love and trust my husband and
me. He now comes up behind us and pokes us in the
behind with his nose! He’s found out how much fun
it is to play and throw stuffed animals. Tally now
loves riding with us and he’s the first one to the door
when he hears the car keys or the word "ride". He
loves long walks in peaceful areas and often takes the
lead. He comes freely to us for pats and scratches. He
often lays his head in our laps. This is the Tally we’ve
come to know and appreciate.
These days Tally is much more comfortable with
himself and with us. He’s still changing, he’s still
making progress – small steps at a time. He still has
good days and bad days, but there are far fewer bad
days. He still leaves the room when strangers come to
visit, but he peeks downstairs at them now. Tally will
never be an outgoing, carefree Greyhound but we love
him for the very special boy he is. And he shows his
love for us in his own subtle ways – the most endearing
of which is a wonderful softening of his eyes when he
looks at us.
Pat Hall
volunteer & GHF Board Member
Whisper is a most unusual greyhound. She is a dark
brindle and she has the most amazing eyes. I had
heard many stories about this special greyhound but
had never seen her. She had been living in the woods
behind our Regional Hospital for almost two years.
This is a huge area of more than seven acres and it is
planned to build a large private hospital there in the
near future. Many people had tried to catch Whisper
without success. The Limerick Animal Welfare phone
service logged a huge number of calls about this
unfortunate abandoned greyhound.
Whisper had three litters of puppies in the woods and
each time we only managed to save three or four
when they got big enough to make it down to the
busy hospital car park. However, we never managed
to entice Whisper to follow her puppies. This past
summer the weather was beautiful and we enjoyed
long bright evenings. Whisper was in season again and
we knew her puppies were due at the end of August.
She disappeared for several days and we knew she
would not leave her newborn puppies. Luckily Karen,
one of our Directors, works at the hospital and she
was able to watch out for Whisper and leave food for
her each day. She began to follow her late each
evening with her friend Bridget in an effort to find
where the puppies were hidden.
After persevering for several weeks, they finally found
nine puppies in woods running around by themselves.
They decided
to take the
puppies as
they were
quite strong.
Whisper was
watching
them from a
distance but
again she did
not follow.
They were very
sad at the
thought of
leaving
Whisper
behind but
they were
afraid that the puppies would make their way down
to the car park and risk being run over late in the
evening. The next evening they decided to go back to
the woods with some food and bring two puppies
with them. As soon as Whisper heard them she came
right over and was overjoyed to be reunited with her
babies. She licked them all over and looked around
anxiously for the others.
photo by Gabrielle Mottern
Whisper
Sophie shown here with her uncle Timmy, at her first
Greyhound Friends’ Open House - Spring 2006
Tags...
If your dog was adopted through
Greyhound Friends and does not have a
Greyhound Friends tag, please let us know
and we will send you a new one.
Countless times dogs have been reunited
with their owners because the lost
greyhound had our tag on. It is also
crucially important to have an updated,
legible identification tag of your own on
the dog's collar at all times. Email us at
[email protected] - we will send you a
nice, new, shiny Greyhound Friends tag.
Thank you
Karen and Bridget were able to put a leash around her neck
and she trotted down to the car park with them and was
reunited with her family. Whisper had been such a generous
mother and protected her puppies so well.
Whisper is now happy at Saffron Hill Sanctuary with
Rosemary and awaits her own forever home. All her puppies
have been homed and are doing well. Whisper now plays
with and loves Samson, a young black lurcher about eight
months old. She was rather shy at first but is getting more
relaxed each day. We think Whisper must have been badly
beaten and she was terrified of people and noise. We are all so
glad that Whisper and her puppies will not be out in the cold
trying to survive this winter.
Marion Fitzgibbon
President, Irish SPCA & Limerick Animal Welfare
www.limerickanimalwelfare.com
3
Tiger
"Tiger is the best representative we ever had.
He exemplified all the best qualities of the breed."
Louise sent me this email on August 29th. Earlier
that morning, I had put Tiger to sleep. He had been
unwell most of the summer, and after too many tests
and two surgeries, it was time. We think the ultimate
cause of his decline was lymphoma. He had just turned
eleven. I had Tiger for only two years; however, I still
have trouble believing he is gone. His time with me
seemed both like forever and like the blink of an eye.
Tiger was returned to GHF in July of 2004. He and I
walked in together one Wednesday morning, as his
owner’s brother was bringing him back. Tiger had
lived with Suzan for seven years and she was ill with
an uncertain outcome. Right away, he seemed special
to me. Believe me, I was not looking for another dog.
I already had Dana – a six year old male greyhound,
Chrissy – a spaniel mix, and Angie, a Yorkshire terrier.
However, my first greyhound Pops, had died suddenly
that may, and – as always - there was a huge void.
And also the question: did Pops send Tiger to me? I
brought Tiger home that very day; he spent not even
one night in the kennel. He entered my home and
our lives as if he had always been there. He was as
good as gold.
That weekend, I was attending a family reunion in CT,
and I brought Tiger with me. His behavior was
outstanding - quiet, friendly, calm. He sat like a sphinx
with crossed paws for most of the day, and made
quite an impression. I knew that he was a treasure.
From that time forward, I
brought Tiger most everywhere
with me. At the Framingham
Charter School, I took off his
leash in the auditorium, and
he worked the crowd. The
students were gathered in the
shape of a U. He started down
one side, hit the curve, and
came back the other side,
touching almost all. He clearly
loved people.
Tiger accompanied me to
many schools: Beaver Country
Day, the Meadowbrook School, Shrewsbury High
School with Mary Bent and Geraldine, the pizza dog,
and the Montrose School in Natick. At the Montrose
School Auction, Tiger casually left the room where I
was promoting Greyhound Adoption to socialize.
When I went running after him, I had asked everyone
if they’d seen a greyhound go by. Despite Tiger’s
seventy pounds and long legs, no one had noticed!! In
addition, Tiger attended attended community events.
4
He came with me to a gathering of senior citizens
in Natick. I also brought my Yorkie, Angie - with a
purpose in mind. Angie is an adorable spitfire.
Everyone wanted to hold her. However, after her
squirming and barking, Tiger became the star. As we
were leaving, all agreed that Angie was a lot of work
and that Tiger was a true gentleman.
The MSPCA sponsors a fundraiser every spring. Tiger
was the first greyhound to ever attend. While other
dogs yipped and nipped, Tiger stood by elegantly and
never made a sound. I was filled with pride. I also
brought Tiger with me to a Super Bowl party that my
husband’s fraternity brothers host each year. I wanted
them to meet a greyhound – most of them had not and to observe his dignified behavior. He was a hit
and was declared their mascot. I never dreamed that
he would not be alive to attend the next year’s party.
One unusual benefit which resulted from my adoption
of Tiger is the friendship which has grown between
myself and his other "mother", Suzan. At first, I was
uncertain whether or not to contact her. Would a
reunion be in Tiger’s best interest? However, I decided
that Suzan deserved to know that Tiger was well cared
for and healthy. I made a phone call, and have never
regretted that decision. I even wondered if I should
return Tiger to Suzan. After all, he would be her only
pet and would receive 100% of her attention. In my
home, that attention would be shared by four dogs
and two daughters. However, we mutually decided
that Tiger should remain with me. I had more
experience with the aging process and euthanasia, and
Tiger was already nine.
And so over many months, there were many
visits. I think that all benefited. Suzan and I
also phoned each other regularly so that I
could keep her informed. She eventually
moved to Maui to pursue another phase of
her life. That move would not have been
possible if Tiger had stayed with her. She
would never have left Tiger behind or have
subjected him to such a drastic change.
We still talk regularly by phone and email.
Everything worked out for the best.
And now, as I write this, I realize with
renewed clarity that Tiger is gone – but
never from my memory or my heart. His
ashes were separated, and half went to Suzan in
Hawaii – as well as some fur. I’ll place my half in my
closet along with those of Ariel, CoCo, Pops, and
Chrissy, who died last December. This life brings not
only great loss, but great love. Tiger was an enormous
blessing in my life – a gift I never took for granted. I
will love him forever, and Suzan and I will be forever
connected by Tiger.
Kathy Mahoney
Tigerdog
Every birthday-cake-wish I ever made as a child
involved the future appearance of a pet. The next
morning I would peak out of my bedroom window
into the back yard, actually expecting to see a horse
grazing, or a tail-wagging dog, or a purring feline.
The cold reality was: I was not allowed to have any
pets as a child.The battle cry was always the same “When you have a place of your own, you may have
whatever you want.” So, I waited.
Decades later, I married an angelic man named
Marko. We decided, after purchasing our first home,
that we were ready for a dog... but what kind? We
wanted a dog that stayed relatively clean and wasn't
too noisy, one that was affectionate and could be both
inside and outside, one that would sleep in our room
and travel on day trips with us, one that was sweet to
babies, one big enough to hug. Our vet suggested a
greyhound, so off to Greyhound Friends we went.
We knew almost nothing about greys. We met with
Louise and "tried" some dogs out walking them in
the field. Since there were already 2 cats in our home,
our choices were narrowed. Tiger was one of them,
we had found our boy. He was fresh off the track, a
fast runner under the name of Tiger Tim; he apparently
preferred “to chase butterflies to rabbits” according to
his owner. He was a magnificent red brindle with the
deepest eyes I had ever seen on a dog. We left our
deposit with plans to pick him up in a couple of days.
Like all good dog-parents-to-be, we ran straight to the
pet store to get ready for our new arrival. A huge crate,
raised bowls, food, toys, (stuffed animals), more toys,
collars and leashes, blankets, treats, more toys... you
get the idea. But, most importantly, two books on
Greyhounds. That night, with a night before Christmas
air, I sat up reading the books cover to cover.
I couldn't sleep. I was too excited.
The next morning, when Marko woke up, I was crying.
“What's wrong?” “We can't get Tiger.” “Why not?”
Because he is not like a normal dog... he'll always have
to be on lead, he can't just hang out with us, follow us
around like you wanted him to do, he'll have to wear
coats, and be taught how to live in a house. “Well,”
Marko responded, “Call Greyhound Friends and let
them know”.
Later that morning I called and was told to come by
and pick up our deposit. There was no pressure, no
reprimand. When I arrived, no one was there. Just the
greys. I looked at the outside crates, and as fate would
have it, Tiger was standing in the very last one. I went
over to say goodbye to him, and he looked at me with
those amazing brown eyes, and started licking me...
my fingers, my face. I sat down next to him and
began explaining our decision. He listened politely,
never taking his eyes off me.
When the staff member arrived, she greeted me and told me she had
my deposit. I announced, “I don't want my deposit...l want Tiger!”
And the love affair officially began. Marko and I taught Tiger the
mystery of a mirror, what a window was, stairs, and a bed. Of
course, he wanted ours! We bonded with him more each day, and
our hearts swelled with love and affection towards this gentle, angelic
dog. We were in love!
Tigerdog put us in touch with Nature on our regular walks. No rock
or toad or butterfly went unnoticed. He was so social, if someone
walked, jogged, or drove by, he would stop, watch them, whine to
meet them, and wait until they passed. He never had an accident, or
damaged anything, or gave us a moment of aggravation. He provided
pure, unconditional love... a dog Angel on earth.
He traveled everywhere with us - day trips, quick errands, overnight
trips, and some vacations. His presence was calming and soothing,
and he made many friends of the 2 and 4-legged variety. Tiger slept
next to our bed every night. He arrived in our home in 1997. We
treasured every day with him, and he was woven into the fabric of
our lives. Tigerdog, our cats Naji and Kiki - my birthday wishes had
come true!
And then the unimaginable happened. Suddenly and completely
unexpectedly, Marko died at age 42. The days ahead were surreal. To
have a loss like that, without a hint, sends a shockwave through your
entire being. Tigerdog brought me back to reality. His normal needs
- walks, feedings, grooming, runs, affection... meant that l had to be
present for him. And Tiger was patient and strong for me.
The loss of my husband pushed me into a downward spiral. My
health suffered, and I was admitted to the hospital. It was then that
a relative returned Tiger to Greyhound Friends. When I recovered, I
called GF to make arrangements to get Tiger back. I was told that he
had been adopted immediately, and it was best that I be given no
information. Apparently the Universe was at work, because a couple
of months later I received a call from a Kathy Mahoney. I didn't
know her, and when she told me she had Tiger, all of my feelings
came to the surface. Tiger, his new mother calling me, wanting me
to know how he was. What an amazing act of kindness. Not knowing
the reception she would get, not knowing how much I wanted Tiger
back, not knowing that I had never wanted to lose him; I went into
shock. In the interim, I had traveled to Hawaii and decided to start
a new life and a private practice there in Paradise. Now Tiger had
landed in the home of one of the most giving, loving Greyhound
People in the world. Kathy was willing to let me share him with her
- visiting, calling for progress reports, sharing photos, and keeping
me abreast of health issues.
Tigerdog was in the last chapter of his life, a regal senior, with all of
the grace and elegance he had always possessed. This grand Greyhound
had the amazing benefit of two loving mothers... one who shared
most of his life with him, adolescence into adulthood, and a second
mother, during his senior years. Tigerdog brought me back to Life
after Marko died and he managed to attract the perfect new Mother,
which enabled me to move to Hawaii to help heal others. He also
brought two women together as friends as Kathy and I will always
share an undying love for one very special Greyhound.
So, Tigerdog, until we meet again, run free, baby.
Suzan Proia
5
Memorable Kennel Dogs
River Bosun
River Bosun lived at the adoption kennel in the early
days of Greyhound Friends' stay on the Saddle Hill
Road property. When a car would pull up outside and
he heard the car doors close - even if he had been
sound asleep Bosun would pick up his large Teddy
bear and run out to greet whoever was visiting. His
good will was infectious. People who had reservations
about greyhounds as pets were won over by Bosun's
funny presentation.
He was one of the long stay dogs who found his
niche at the adoption kennel, worked hard at his job,
and was responsible for initiating many adoptions.
Sparky
This photo of Sparky is so sad.She came to us in the
early days when it was more likely than now to have
dogs turned over in awful condition. She was from a
breeding farm that had way too many dogs. Sparky
was a runt and not useful. But she was Sparky...
with typical greyhound resilience she responded
positively to good food, warmth and affection. She
had a great spark of life right in her. I was the saddest
when she died.
Louise Coleman
I Was A Greyhound Skeptic
It's true I was a Greyhound Skeptic, but luckily that's all
behind me now. My wife and I were discussing pets one
evening and she mentioned she would like to get a dog.
We have a small home and I'm thinking a Beagle,
maybe a Miniature Schnauzer would be nice. And then
she finishes with, “I'd like to get a greyhound.” Loving
husband that I am, I said simply, “Sure, Honey.”
In the days that followed I did some research (well,
actually I saw a couple of ads on TV for local tracks)
and started to form an opinion on Greyhounds. First,
they seemed like pretty good-sized dogs. Second, they
appeared to be kind of hyper - all that running and
stuff. And third, they were always muzzled so they must
be vicious. I felt a big, hyper, vicious dog and a
small house was not a good combination. It was about
that time when my wife came in and said Greyhound
Friends was having an open house that weekend and we
should go. I thought of the opinions I had formed,
looked her in the eyes and said emphatically,
“Sure, Honey.”
As we got out of the car and headed towards the kennel
a Greyhound came walking towards us. I put my hand
out so she could sniff it, and she did, and I started to
scratch her behind the ears. It was at this point that my
attitude and, for that matter, my life changed. She
leaned against me and looked up and I was hooked. I
suppose it was a combination of things that got me, but
mostly it was the eyes. How anyone can look into a
Greyhound's eyes and not be mesmerized is beyond me.
We found out later the dog was one of Louise's, and was
kind of an unofficial ambassador. She did her job well.
We left the kennel with Rusty.
Rusty crossed the Rainbow Bridge one cold and snowy
January night a couple of years ago and we decided to
wait until summer to visit Greyhound Friends again. We
lasted two weeks. We had holes in our hearts that could
only be filled by a Greyhound. We were back in
Hopkinton unable to decide between Roy and Abby.
My wife said, “Let's take them both home.” And with a
smile I said, “Sure, Honey.”
Walter Shaughnessy
Greyhound Friends is updating our database. If you have moved or are planning to move
please send us your new address. We want to make sure that if you have adopted a greyhound
from us and your dog is lost and then found, we know how to get your pet back to you.
Since our newsletter goes out at a non-profit rate, it is not forwarded on.
We need a current address in order to have the newsletter reach you.
6
Advertising Greyhounds – Writing the Greyhounds’ Resumes
I’ve always loved dogs. I’ve always enjoyed writing. I
make my living as part of the Information Technology
industry. I found the happy medium of these things
that define me by taking pictures once a month of
freshly arrived dogs at the kennel and writing a brief
synopsis for each of them for the Greyhound Friends
website. It’s my own meager contribution to the
greater cause of the greyhound rescue. There’s a band
of us with scheduled turns who maintain the Available
Dogs page of the website – photographers, holders,
spiel writers and uploaders. The goal is simple –
consider it as an Internet matchmaking effort to reach
out to people in search of pets to love and bring them
together with retired racers in search of loving homes.
We write these dogs’ prologues, and the rest of the
chapters of their books are meant to be written by
different authors – their eventual human parents.
For some of us, the initial acquaintance with our
subjects became permanent relationships. Shy Klem
claimed Barbara, and Dartacan, the gentle galgo, now
owns Denise’s heart. Chick’s picture lasted but a few
days before Pat took her as her own. The picture of
my own personal favorite, Erin (formerly Glenna,
a.k.a. Grainne) has graced our mantle for the last five
and a half years. Three months into my monthly tour
of duty, this scrawny blue girl with a pink nose from
Ireland posed for me. She licked everything in sight –
my camera, my foot, my hand, my husband, and I
was hopelessly smitten. She has happily shared space,
toys and treats since then with Tropicana Troy, my
now eleven-year old lug who started it all for me.
One would think that at some point we would run
out of things to write about these dogs. After all, it’s
like an endless procession of paws in and out of the
waiting station. But lo and behold, the material always presents
itself. There are the feisty ones – the spitfire Titu, (not so) Quiet
Man, the former kennel brat Finn and the loudmouth Matthew.
There are the spooks – the neurotic but lovable twins Sonie and
Winnie, Scottie and Oirsin. There are the physically maimed but
otherwise perfect – Duncan, Warrior, Tim and John. There are no
stories more poignant than the returnees – Boch, Apollo, Donna,
Madison, Nicky and the memorable Fenway. There’s nothing
more inspiring than the survival stories of dogs who defied the
odds – the ghost Barney, his now sister Cavan, the durable
Connor and the resilient Jessie.
I will admit to a tinge of cheap thrill in archiving the dogs’ pages,
specially the long-tenured ones because that meant that they have
finally gone home. Once in a while I wonder about where they are
now, especially the ones who came dangerously close to coming
home with me. During festivities such as the Open House, I look
forward to the reward of glimpses into their now pampered lives.
On other occasions, accidental encounters provide pleasant insights.
Such was the case a few months ago when I stumbled into a casual
conversation with a lady tugging an Italian greyhound in a pet
store. She also happened to have two other full-sized hounds at
home. Three greyhound topics deep, I learned of twelve-year-old
Crystal’s happy fate.
The website in some ways has served as the kennel’s chronicle. The
turnover of the faces on this page reflects to a certain degree how
well Greyhound Friends does in its mantra to provide these
magnificent dogs their chances for decent lives outside the track.
Its volatility echoes the impact of publicized events such as track
closings, deadly track ailments and the narrow defeat of racing
ballot on public sentiment. In the regular course of things, the
website just aims to continue to contribute in any small measure
to finding perfect matches made in greyhound heaven. Cupid better
start writing his own resume.
Naty Sayler
long time volunteer and supporter
Greyhound Friends' new director of the kennel
shop & catalog is Dawn Fontaine. She is working
to consolidate the progress both operations have
made over the last few years and is adding new
merchandise on a regular basis to improve the
offerings to both hounds and people. Come down
to the kennel shop and check out what’s new!
If you have any suggestions of greyhound
merchandise that you'd like to see at the shop
or in the catalog, please let Dawn know.
photo by John Mottern
Homeward Bound Hounds Boutique & Catalog
email her at: [email protected],
or call the kennel at 508-435-5969
Dawn Fontaine with her son &
first rate helper, Massimo
7
the Mail Bag
Dear Greyhound Friends:
Nine years ago, I adopted from you "Funded Venture",
a 2.5 year old very very shy brindle boy who would
probably would now be listed as a "special dog". I saw
him at an open house, and you requested I return the
next day to meet him because he was so very shy.
He's been called Clove ever since, and slowly over the
years has come out of his shell and is now more easy
going, though still sort of a Caspar Milquetoast. He
also developed the rather un-greyhound like habit of
barking at people (and dogs) walking outside the
house, and really goes at it when the mail comes
through the mail slot in the door.
I had always thought, however, if someone ever tried
to get in, he would run for the bathroom, his favorite
hiding place. Well, he proved me wrong this week.
There had a been a series of break-ins in the adjoining
blocks that were troubling us all and then they struck
my house,busting in the front door in broad daylight.
Clove barked so loudly and fiercely that he not only
scared them off (they never entered past the foyer)
but he got the attention of my neighbor across the
street, who called 911 and with great police response
the burglars were caught down the block -- and they
have been linked to the other break-ins. As my
brother remarked, "Clove Kent turned into Superdog."
He is not only my hero, but the hero of the entire
neighborhood. Of course, he was well rewarded with
turkey and his favorite, pad thai.
Thank you again for uniting me with the most
wonderful friend.
Kind regards,
Catherine E. DuBeau, MD
Associate Professor of Medicine
University of Chicago
Dear Louise,
It is with an extremely heavy, sore and broken heart,
I want to let you know that Dougie is no longer with
us. My wife and I could not allow him to suffer in
severe pain from cancer so had to have him euthanized.
We stayed with him to the very end.
For a little over nine years
Dougie provided our
family with great joy,
love, crazy antics and the
usual just plain greyhound
fun. As is the case with
many greyhounds,
Dougie “chose” me nine
years ago when we “just
came to visit” and help
exercise a few of them.
When he saw us walking
by outside the chain link
fence he climbed up the
fence door and tried to manipulate the latch to either
release himself or tell us to get him out. We thought
this guy was trying to tell us something, so I went
inside and got a leash. Once we got him outside, I
was stooped down along side of him giving him a hug
when he decided to press his head down on my arm
with such force I couldn’t understand how he could
possibly breathe. Then he did a real heavy-duty
greyhound lean to almost a 45 degree angle. Boy,
talk about making a statement! That’s what really
locked in the deal.
Dougie couldn’t have been a better family member.
Whenever possible when we went in the car he would
come with us. He loved his rides, whether a short trip
or a four hour long trek around the country side. We
called him the Ambassadog for greyhounds. He made it
clear to anyone who met him how wonderful greyhounds
would be for a companion. I truly believe he thought
he was a person.
Dougie loved it when my mother-in-law was living
with us. When he saw her go into the kitchen to get
the newspaper, he would rush to get on the couch
before she did. He would be sure to spread himself
out over the entire couch so she would have to sit in a
chair. It was a little game he had with her.
They say time heals all wounds, and I suppose it does.
But Dougie made such a mark on us that I expect it
will take a little longer this time for our pain and
emptiness to go away. Who knows, maybe by then we
will start the cycle all over again. The nine years of joy
certainly outweighs the final pain.
Regards,
Bruce A. Willard
Worcester, MA
8
Dear Greyhound Friends,
Dear Louise:
Starlight passed away peacefully at her home on
January 26, 2006 surrounded by friends and family.
I know you asked me to come up
with a story for the newsletter, and
you’d think that I could. We’ve had
eight Greys over the years, and as
you know, many fosters, but, I just
couldn’t think of anything. Well,
there was the one about Teddy,
when he got away from me - visited
a cemetery during a funeral, and
peed on the grave? Nope, did that
one already.
Before John and I knew her, she was a track dog and
raced in Florida under the name Phlash Princess.
She later came to Mass. and continued to race until
the age of five, when we were lucky enough to adopt
her and bring her home. She was a very happy dog
with lots of energy and an exuberant spirit. Her
favorite thing of all to do was run with her friends,
and run laps in the backyard chasing her squeaky toy.
She also enjoyed meeting people, especially children,
as she always acquired a very gentle demeanor in the
company of them. She loved to ride in the car and
this past spring we took her to enjoy a family vacation
in the Berkshires.
Star was a celebrity!
Twice she was written
up in the Boston
Globe... once in
2002 in an article
promoting a
Greyhound Friends
open house, and
again in 2003
when she became a
registered therapy
dog and participated Starlight and Hersey
in a program where
children would practice their reading skills by reading
to her. Since patience was her strong suit, the children
would not feel discouraged when they mispronounced
a word! In the last year of her life, she decided she'd
like to help more greys like her find homes, so she
participated in several "meet & greets" for Greyhound
Friends. During these, mom would talk to potential
adopters about the breed while Star would turn on
the charm and show them what loving personalities
greyhounds have.
Run free, Starlight... as you did on this earth until
almost the very end. We know that even though your
body has left us, your spirit is as beautiful as always.
Carolyn Zuena
Then I thought, how about the
time Joan was walking Willow in
the dark and together they found
that skunk? No, too sad - the skunk didn’t make it,
and Joan’s still mad about how people stayed away
from her all week. Well then, how about the day when
we decided to adopt Barney - he celebrated by eating a
pin cushion and spent the night in surgery? No way,
that will scare people. They’ll think Greys are crazy
and learn we’re not very bright. How about telling
about the race track that has been developed by the
hounds running in our yard? It even has banked
corners. No, people will worry about their grass and
use that as an excuse not to adopt.
Teddy
Or the time I looked into our back yard to see the
gate open and all four Greys gone? I went charging
out the front door to look for them, only to find them
circling around the car, waiting for a ride. No, that
wouldn’t be good. People will think they’re easy to
catch. Not so. We could tell them about the time we
came home to find the floor of the entire house
covered in hi loft, white fiberfill. Every stuffed animal
we had had been torn to shreds by a new foster. No,
people will think Greys are destructive.
Well, there was the time we came home to find none
of our dogs greeting us at the door. I couldn’t even get
them up to go for a walk. I thought they had carbon
monoxide poisoning or something. That is, until I
found that they’d broken into the food cupboard and
polished off 20lbs of kibble. No, that won’t work
either. People will think Greyhounds are thieves.
Maybe I could write a story about what happened
yesterday - Joan baked an apple pie from scratch and
left it on the counter to cool. We came home to find
it upside down, on the floor, with only the crust
eaten. I guess that wouldn’t be good either. People
will think Greys are counter surfers.
Sorry Louise, I just can’t seem to think of anything to
write about. Nothing ever happens around here, and
Greyhounds are just so quiet and innocent, that they
never give me anything to write about.
Sincerely,
Michael McCann
9
BOARD MEMBERS
Greyhounds looking for a Special Home
Louise Coleman
Executive Director
Pluto is an extremely handsome 3 year old
guy. He has a beautiflly distinctive muted
brindle coat. He loves attention, human
interaction and other dogs. Pluto is a very
strong boy and very energetic. Because of this,
he would do best in a home with older kids
or adults. A fenced yard would definitely be
needed for this boy. He has been working
with a private trainer who can work with his
adopter. Pluto would do best in an active
home or with an experienced dog owner someone who can properly channel this bundle of fun and spunk!
Cyndy Curley
Pat Hall
Secretary
Ann Lange
Kathy Mahoney
Vice President
Veronica Zolina
President& Treasurer
Kennel Wish List
Bandages
Bird Seed/Feed
Blankets & Towels, Comforters
Cleaning Supplies
Carpet & Carpet Cutters we use
Ruben is a lurcher from Ireland who is fawn
boy. He is very sweet and has a reputation for
jumping fences. He is also very smart and
would be a great agility dog, to bring out his
full potential. Ruben has lots of energy - always
ready to go for a romp. He is very friendly and
would be a welcome addition to your family.
We are not absolutely sure on Ruben's age, but
think he is approximately two years old. Ruben
is not good with cats and other small animals.
for lining the dogs’ kennels
Dog Food Quality dry & canned:
Iams, Eukanauba, & Pro Plan especially
Secrets is a 2 year old with a beautiful red
fawn coat. He's a bit tentative at first but a real
sweetie. He has maybelline eyes that just melt
your heart. Secrets is not good with cats and other
small animals. He would make a nice addition to
a loving family.
Laundry Detergent & Bleach
Liquid Dish Soap & Pine Cleaner
Office Supplies copy paper, pens,
large & padded envelopes, tape, etc.
Olive Oil & Rice
Paper Towels
Shampoo flea & tick for dogs
Vet Supplies
Visitors
If you would like to know more about any of our special greyhounds
that need a caring home, please contact the kennel at 508-435-5959.
Greyhound Friends is continuing to build an email database. Please send us yours at: [email protected]
Commemorative Garden Update - Request for Volunteers
Greyhound Friends is looking for a volunteer who is experienced in bricklaying to help us with the start of our
commemorative garden. If you can help us, please contact Pat Hall - [email protected].
We continue to order personally engraved bricks for the commemorative garden. If you'd like to order one of these
very special bricks to honor a beloved greyhound, animal, or person, please be in touch with Pat Hall about this also
- [email protected]. Bricks cost $150 each.
Thank you.
10
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Greyhound Friends to transport, spay/neuter, inoculate, feed, and shelter close to 325
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01748
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508-435-0547
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508-435-5969
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