What is a Senior Greyhound?

A senior is a dog that is 6 years of age or older. Adopting a senior has its definite advantages. Older Greyhounds are usually more calm and laid back than younger dogs. They are used to living in a home, so they tend to be house smart, know the rules and are housebroken. Many times, when we receive an older Greyhound, it is due to them being returned because of changing family conditions such as divorce, death, arrival of a new baby, etc. Although these reasons are valid to the people, the dog is the one that suffers. He/she is returned for no fault of his/her own and is now forced to deal with the transition. Many of these dogs are active and it is hard to tell that they are considered "seniors." Our group has adopted many seniors out and one response that is mentioned is how at first they were concerned about adopting a senior greyhound, but then see that there is so much life left in them they can not believe that they are seniors. The normal life expectancy of a Greyhound is 12 - 14 years.

TEN REASONS TO ADOPT AN OLDER DOG!!
1. Older dogs are housetrained. You won't have to go through the difficult stage(s) of teaching a puppy house manners and mopping up after accidents.

2. Older dogs are not teething puppies, and won't chew your shoes and furniture while growing up.

3. Older dogs can focus well because they've mellowed. Therefore, they learn quickly.

4. Older dogs have learned what "no" means. If they hadn't learned it, they wouldn't have gotten to be "older" dogs.

5. Older dogs settle in easily, because they've learned what it takes to get along with others and become part of a pack.

6. Older dogs are good at giving love, once they get into their new, loving home. They are grateful for the second chance they've been given.

7. What You See Is What You Get: Unlike puppies, older dogs have grown into their shape and personality. Puppies can grow up to be quite different from what they seemed at first.

8. Older dogs are instant companions -- ready for hiking, car trips, and other things you like to do.

9. Older dogs leave you time for yourself, because they don't make the kinds of demands on your time and attention that puppies and young dogs do.

10. Older dogs let you get a good night's sleep because they're accustomed to human schedules and don't generally need nighttime feedings, comforting, or bathroom breaks.

Adapted from Labrador Retriever Rescue's "Top Ten Reasons to Adopt a Rescue"

What is a special need Greyhound?

A special need Greyhound could have a medical condition that might require special medications, special diet, or special care. An example of the medication might be thyroid medication due to an under- or over-active thyroid. Special needs Greyhounds can lead a full, normal life if given the proper medical attention. Many of the families associated with Greyhound Lifesavers have had the privilege of loving one of these beautiful Greyhounds. They would not trade the experience for any amount of money in the world. They deserve to have the same chance as the other Greyhounds. PLEASE consider opening your heart and home to a Senior or Special Needs Greyhound.