Greyhounds.
It would be interesting to listen to what people’s responses are at the mention of that word. I’m sure they would include everything from the bus system, to racing, to recovery and adoption….and for those who own them, words like ‘couch potato’, ‘lazy’, ‘sighthound’, ‘loving’, ‘loyal’, and ‘the more the merrier’!
I sell handmade dog-themed items online, and I have had the opportunity to participate in many fundraisers as a result. I get quite a few requests each year for donations. Though I have not personally owned a greyhound, I have become friends with many people who do, and I can say, hands down, that they are truly a different ‘breed’ of dog owner! There is something about these greyhound owners that is so intense and so focused – I really have not found a proper description yet. Perhaps it is because the folks I have interacted with are all rescuers. They have dedicated their time and resources, their homes and hearts to these lanky ‘couch potatoes’ who seem to understand that they have been delivered from their previous lives as racers and are now living in loving laps of luxury. It has been a rare occasion when I meet a greyhound owner who owns just one. Most have a ‘family’ of them!
I was thrilled to come across Freedom Greyhound Rescue (FGR) of Aurora as I searched for a local Portage shelter or rescue for this week’s BOW-WOWs & MEOWs feature. A group of volunteers run this small rescue for retired racing greyhounds. Their website states:
We are a 501c3 organization consisting of a group of dedicated, hard-working volunteers that share a love for greyhounds and a love for our community. Our vision is to help retired racing greyhounds reach their forever homes, taking them from the track, to house, to loving home. We are dedicated to giving back to the community that supports our efforts through education, awareness, and public involvement with our dogs. The welfare of all greyhounds is our primary goal, welcoming all, regardless of where the greyhound was obtained. We are rewarded by our greyhounds with their smiles, kisses and tail wags.
There is currently no physical building where their dogs are housed. They are in loving foster homes. But…
these folks have a vision.
Freedom House
They see an actual house for their ‘greyt’ retirees where they will be able to transition from their former lives of racing. At Freedom House, they will learn about stairs, tile floors, furniture and have the opportunity to run in a large fenced in yard. Here, under the supervision of qualified volunteers, these dogs can learn about what life will be like in their future homes. They will also be able to host fundraising events, picnics, and other greyhound centered activities for greyhounds and their people! If you share a love for these graceful, unique canines, you can make a donation directly toward the funding of this project by clicking HERE and specifying you would like it to be used for Freedom House. Of course, general donations are always welcome too.
Other ways you can help:
- Become a volunteer. Email and ask about an application.
- Like them on Facebook and follow their events. See happy greyhounds, too!
- Attend events! See below what’s happening this weekend!
- Donate items. Check their current list of needs HERE.
- Become a member. Annual Membership includes membership certificate, dog toy or treat for your pup’s enjoyment, and a T-Shirt for you. Find out more HERE.
To get involved, learn more, ask about their vision, find out about adoption –
Email
rescue1.fgr@gmail.com
Call
Peggy at 330-562-0555
Up for Adoption!
Inquire about adoption HERE. Learn about their process of placing these ‘greyt’ hounds which have received excellent vet care prior to leaving FGR. They limit their adoptions to Northeast Ohio, but can direct you to a local rescue if you are outside this region. Click on any picture below and learn more about the greyhounds up for adoption right now.
Lacey
Notshka
Time
Dreamie
Upcoming Events!
In The Woods Charity Dog Walk ***THIS Sunday, April 21*** from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Bark After Dark Wing Night Saturday, April 27 from 7 – 9 p.m.
*This weekly feature will share fun and interesting pet ‘tales’ – everything from helpful tips, funny stories, breed information, great links…really anything having to do with pets. And not just limited to dogs and cats – all pets are included here! Your stories are welcome and encouraged! Special focus will be placed on the local Portage animal shelters and rescues that have pets for adoption, so be sure to check weekly to see who might be eagerly waiting for their FURever home! Send your story or suggestion to patty@geauganews.com with subject title: bow-wow & meow