A local animal sanctuary is highlighting the plight of retired racing greyhounds – and has dispelled some of the myths around the breed.

The Gables Cats and Dogs Home says that every year in the UK around 8,000 greyhounds retire from racing, but the coronavirus outbreak has caused more tracks to close, meaning that number is likely to increase this year.

’One such track, Peterborough Greyhound Stadium, has closed its doors after more than 85 years leaving many trainers with the dilemma of what to do with their redundant, racing greyhounds,’ said a spokesperson for the home.

’The luckier dogs go to rescue centres, leaving the rest facing an uncertain future.’

Gables Dogs and Cats Home has offered sanctuary to 12 of these unwanted greyhounds and they are now ready to find the perfect forever homes they deserve.

But greyhounds often get overlooked in rescue centres, due to their appearance and misconceptions about the breed. As is often the case with cats, black greyhounds tend to be disregarded more than their ‘prettier’ counterparts.

There are many great reasons that greyhounds make great adoptive pets, says Gables deputy manager Ruth Rickard.

Contrary to popular belief greyhounds don’t need a lot of exercise as they are sprinters, so they are content with short strolls around the block followed by a long nap on a comfy sofa. They are generally extremely gentle, placid and affectionate dogs.

They have very short coats that don’t require much grooming and they don’t moult as much as some other breeds do. They have excellent manners while on lead, tending not to pull. They are quiet souls who rarely bark, but they will chatter their teeth with excitement. These factors often mean that they can be popular pets with older people but equally they make great family pets too.

’Most greyhounds are not lucky enough to be given the chance of a normal life, which is such a shame as they make wonderful pets,’ said Ruth.

’If you adopt one you will lose your sofa as they are couch potatoes, but this is a small price to pay for a best friend for life. Being a genuine non-euthanasia charity, we will never give up on finding homes for our animals. This means if you adopt an animal from us you will be saving two lives; the one you take home and the one who will take their place in our care.’

To find out more about the adoption process and see all the greyhouds currently looking for homes visit their websit www.gablesfarm.org.uk

ends