Adopting a Greyhound: Tips from Homeward Bound Greyhound Association

Learn more about our July Pet Partner of the Month and the special work they do to provide forever homes for retired racing Greyhounds.

Homeward Bound Greyhound Association (HBGA) is a volunteer  managed, IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The organization’s mission is:

• to find responsible loving homes for retired racing Greyhounds,
• to educate the public about the desirability of Greyhounds as pets,
• to inform the public of the availability of retired racing Greyhounds for adoption,
• to build a community of individuals with an appreciation of the Greyhound breed, and
• to work toward the continued well-being of racing Greyhounds.

HBGA volunteers work with track personnel in Birmingham, AL to bring these retired racers to the local tri-state area (Cincinnati, OH). Once they arrive, they are placed in foster homes where they learn to navigate things like stairs and shiny floors, are taught that windows are solid even though they are clear, learn to play and are exposed to a life full of exciting and sometimes scary new experiences.

While the  greyhounds are learning about a new kind of everyday life, HBGA volunteers are actively working to find them the most loving, compatible, “forever” homes  possible. This involves attending many “meet and greets” and taking advantage of every opportunity to educate the public about the joys of sharing your life with these gentle companions.

Photo: Marianne Perdemo

One critical  part of educating the public is clearing up the many misconceptions about greyhounds. Below are some greyhound “truths.”

• Greyhounds  do not actually need lots of room to run and exercise. While a fenced yard is best (and more convenient for owners), daily walks and an occasional visit to a dog park are sufficient for most. Greyhounds have been successfully placed in apartments and condominiums.
• Greyhounds  are typically not “high strung.” Most are naturally laid back, well mannered and sensitive. They tend to be compliant with a personality that helps them adapt quickly to a new lifestyle.
• Most  greyhounds do quite well with children who have been taught how to be respectful and gentle with dogs.

These  magnificent animals spend their lives from birth to retirement as the cornerstone of an industry that provides entertainment and employment for many. The generosity of our volunteers, donors and managers of our “meet and greet” locations make it possible to give these “couch potatoes” the retirement they deserve.

To learn more about this amazing breed and how you can help, please visit our website at www.hbgatristate.org. For additional  information, contact Mary Beth DeSalvo at (513) 886-2520.