MISSING DOGS.


As the days start to draw in, and November 5th approaches, we inevitably start to get phone calls at the kennels telling us that a loose greyhound has been found wearing one of our discs. The phone call usually occurs at around 4pm – just as it is getting dark. We immediately have to try and locate the owner of the greyhound, a task which can take some time, as often we only have a description of the hound e.g. colour and whether a dog or bitch, and the area in which it was discovered. (Occasionally the finder is able to read the ear-marks, which helps.) We then have to start checking every dog which matches that description, and was homed anywhere near the location it was picked up in. It is very upsetting as we frantically search our list in an effort to reunite hound and owner, and the pressure is really on if the person who has found the greyhound is unable to keep it safe for any length of time until we either locate the owner, or drive out to collect it ourselves. Fortunately, seldom are we unable to reunite owner and greyhound quite quickly, but nevertheless, it makes our hearts beat faster until we know that all is well.

In order to assist us, and prevent this situation arising, please can you:-

1. Make sure that when you home one of our greyhounds you have a disc ready to attach to their house collar. The lightweight house collar should be worn by the greyhound at all times, whether at home or out walking. We send every dog home with one of our discs attached to the house collar. We do not mind if you leave our disc on (as a second point of contact) providing you also have one engraved with your own details, or put your details on the reverse side.
2. People have varying views on what should be put on the disc. We suggest the following: - Home and/or mobile phone number. Whichever you chose, make sure that that you are carrying the mobile phone with you, and that it is switched on or that someone is at home manning the phone whilst others are out looking for the dog. Home Address: - People are far more likely to hold onto the dog, or walk round to your address if they can see it is local.
3. Please telephone us here at the kennels if your greyhound is missing. ( 01932 224918) It could be that we will be alerted to a stray greyhound before you are. In the same mode, please let us know as soon as you and your greyhound are safely reunited.
4. Be extra careful at this time of the year. Make sure your greyhound’s collar and lead is on nice and tight so that there is less chance of them escaping. Keep them on the lead if they are likely to be panicked, even if they go off lead at other times of the year. If at all possible try and give them an earlier afternoon walk, before darkness falls.

At the end of the day, we just want you and your greyhound to enjoy a long and happy life together.