Lisa Chelenza knows that not everyone in your family walks on two legs. For helpful tips on taking care of your animal friends, and advice from local veterinary experts, watch Pet Pointers Wednesday and Saturday on YNN. If you have ideas for Pet Pointers segments, email Lisa at petpointers@twcny.rr.com.
Updated 08/20/2011 05:00 AM
Pet Pointers: Misconceptions about Greyhounds
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Greyhounds are sometimes thought of as high-strung and difficult, but that’s not necessarily the case.
The Greyhound is one of the oldest breeds known to man. They were one of the first to be added to the AKC registry and their likeness has even been discovered among the drawings within Egyptian tombs dating back thousands of years.
In modern times, these amazing animals are placed in the dog track racing system, retired after around two years or less and if they are lucky -- adopted out to a loving forever home.
Because of their racing background, some people think Greyhounds will not make good pets. However, most negative myths are just not true.
“Their gentle nature. They’re very loving dogs. They’re very low maintenance dogs. Some people think they are very jumpy because they race, but that’s not the case at all. They are great for people who don’t like a high energy dog,” said Glenn Santa, President of the Greyhound Walking Club of CNY.
Greyhounds are smart, social dogs who generally get along with other pets, are relatively low shedding, and love to lounge. They are also pretty quiet, except for the occasional howl usually instigated by other dogs or their humans.
Although Greyhounds are one of the fastest dogs around after about 90 seconds of explosive running in an enclosed area, they like to settle down for a long nap. One fact about these gorgeous dogs is true -- they must be on the leash at all times when out for a walk. This is in part because if these sight-hounds see something to chase, they could be a mile away in a matter of minutes.
If you think a Greyhound might be the right dog for you, check out www.adopt-a-greyhound.org to learn more.
Special Thanks to Harbor Hounds Greyhound Rescue and Kindred Spirits Greyhound Adoption and the Greyhound Walking Club of CNY.