Transitioning from the Track: Preparing Greyhounds for Pet Life
Greyhounds, celebrated for their elegance and speed, transition seamlessly into affectionate and loyal pets. For many owners, the journey to retirement begins with helping their greyhound adapt from a life of racing to a more relaxed domestic environment. Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) provides a wealth of resources to support owners during this transition, emphasising the importance of a gradual wind-down period and necessary procedures like desexing, as stipulated by the Code of Practice for the Keeping of Racing Greyhounds.
An enthusiast who adopted their first greyhound describes how this experience sparked a passion for assisting retired racers in adapting to pet life and debunking common misconceptions about the breed. Unlike show greyhounds, which are bred for appearance, racing greyhounds are bred for athleticism. In the UK, for instance, these dogs typically live in pairs in racing kennels, following a regimented routine of feeding, grooming, and exercise. This structured environment means that they often lack exposure to everyday household experiences, making their entry into a domestic setting feel quite alien.
Understanding Your Greyhound
Greyhounds exhibit a range of endearing and unique behaviours. Owners may encounter the "greyhound scream of death" (GSOD), a dramatic response to minor injuries caused by their thin skin. Other quirks include 'nitting' (gentle nibbling), 'roaching' (sleeping on their backs with legs in the air), and 'rooing' (a form of howling). Despite their athletic pasts, greyhounds are typically low-energy pets, often referred to as '45 mph couch potatoes' due to their love of lounging.
Behavioural challenges, such as freezing during walks or reacting to other dogs, are common among greyhounds. These behaviours often result from limited socialisation and unfamiliarity with new environments. It is crucial for owners to approach these issues with empathy, understanding that they are typically rooted in fear rather than stubbornness or aggression.
A prevalent misconception is that greyhounds are difficult to train. While they may not have received much training beyond racing, they are quite capable of learning new skills and commands with the right approach. The key is to discover each dog's individual learning style and what motivates them. Many greyhounds excel in activities such as clicker training, agility, and scentwork, dispelling the myth that they are unresponsive or untrainable.
When adopting a greyhound, providing a comfortable environment is essential, especially during training sessions. Soft bedding can help, as greyhounds are sensitive to hard surfaces. GRV's resources, including the Re-homing Guide and Post-Adoption Care Guide, offer valuable advice on preparing greyhounds for their new homes and ensuring a smooth transition.
GRV recommends assessing greyhounds for prey drive before re-homing them to the public, particularly if the dog has a moderate or high prey drive. Proper assessment ensures that the greyhound is matched with owners who can manage its behaviour. Additionally, completing the "Notice of Retirement as a Pet – Transfer to New Owner" form is mandatory when transferring ownership, ensuring all necessary information is communicated.
It is important to note that surrendering a greyhound to a municipal council pound or contracted shelter is prohibited under racing rules and the greyhound Code of Practice. Owners should verify the appropriate facilities in their local area before considering surrender.
Retiring a greyhound and transitioning them into a pet life is a deeply rewarding experience. By following GRV's guidelines, owners can provide these remarkable animals with the care and comfort they deserve, enriching both their lives and the lives of their new families. Whether you are new to greyhounds or an experienced owner, adopting one of these gentle dogs can bring immense joy and fulfilment.