Adopting the Racing Greyhound

This was the perfect introductory book to adopting a former racing greyhound. Cynthia's writing style is straightforward but friendly; it felt like a longtime cheeky friend was talking to me! She knows her stuff, and while she is a proponent of greyhound adoption, she also includes information on why people shouldn't get a greyhound (or a dog).It provided the perfect amount of information without being too overwhelming. The adoption agency we got our greyhound from requires potential adopters to read either this book or  Retired Racing Greyhounds For Dummies . We read both. Each book has some overlapping information, but the Dummies book has MUCH more information on basic dog ownership and training (which can really be applied to all breeds). This seems appropriate considering that author is a dog trainer! However, the Dummies book left both my husband and I more overwhelmed than assured. I think reading both of these books will give a comprehensive overview of retired racing greyhounds, but if I had to pick one, it'd be this one. The Dummies book is used more as a reference for us now-definitely worth buying, but also more detailed.

I was required to read this book before adopting a Greyhound. Having had dogs and cats all my life, I was a tiny bit annoyed by the obligation. And, once again, was reminded of how much I don’t know. Despite the calm and affectionate personalities these dogs are known for, there’s so much about them that differs from other dogs. Turns out, this book is required reading for potential adopters for good reason. From matters of curious interest—who knew Egypt worshiped them with statues we can pet today? (risking Louvre security), to critical drug sensitivities not shared by other dogs. I was frequently astonished, and saddened by how sometimes cruel the racing industry has been to these sweetest of companions. A quick, smooth read, with everything from Greyhound anatomy to a section for Vets on Grey-specific treatments, drugs, and doses. While not my cup of history / philosophy / science / religion / mythology tea, in the Grey-world, it’s a thorough treatment, and a valuable reference over the life of your pup.

Recently, my family turned towards the idea of adopting a retired racing greyhound. In part this was motivated by the sentiment of adopting a dog in need, and in part it was because the greyhound has a reputation for being a good family dog, and one that, contrary to expectation, enjoys lounging around. A local greyhound rescue association, as part of its extensive screening process for families that wish to adopt, requires that every prospective adopter read this book by Cynthia A. Branigan.ADOPTING THE RACING GREYHOUND turned out not at all to be a chore. Sure, we had the motivation to read this book, but in reading it it helped tremendously that Branigan is an able writer and that her keen passion for greyhounds shows through her craft. This is a short work--the text runs only 153 pages, with illustrations--but covers well the main points to be considered in adopting a greyhound. In addition to practical help with introducing a dog into the home and to children, and some basic guidance about the care and feeding of the dog, Branigan also provides some history on the breed and a description of the racing life of greyhounds. She delivers the latter without editorializing on the morality of dog racing; she is rather more interested in just helping these animals in their post-racing lives. Branigan is frank about the challenges inherent in raising a dog that has been bred for the track--she has seen too many adoptions fail because families were unprepared--but also celebrates the joy of life with a dog that has been well matched for his or her new home. By titling her last chapter "Having Fun," Branigan underscores her ultimate aim: to create a happy and safe home for dog and adopting family.The book's design could have been improved with the use of standardized headers and sub-headings; as it is the fonts of these titles vary and it's not always apparent whether a new section is subordinate to the previous one. Also, though the print quality is fine for the text, it does not do justice to the photographs. A family, like ours, eagerly anticipating the arrival of a greyhound in our home, would have enjoyed viewing higher quality illustrations. These are minor quibbles with what is otherwise a fine book. I am very happy that our greyhound rescue association required us to read it, and I recommend it to all who are interested in adopting this wonderful animal.

I read this book (Kindle version) in preparation for applying to adopt a retired racing greyhound. I enjoyed reading about the history of the breed, as well as learning more about their racing life and upbringing. It was also helpful to learn about some of the nuances of the breed, especially regarding their anesthesia needs, lab values, and health hazards (lawn treatment chemicals, etc). I would recommend reading this book for anyone considering adopting a retired racing greyhound. The more educated you are, the easier their transition to retirement and home life will be.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone thinking of adopting a racing greyhound (and you should, they are amazing animals). It even included information helpful to you vet (if they done see greyhounds often) about what their blood results should be and how they handle anesthesia.

This was a good book. I did learn some additional information. Just disappointed at how much of the book was taken up by information listing adoption agencies. If this book had instead been made into a web page, information, like tick testing and adoption agencies could be more up-to-date. While the information was helpful, it did seem rather basic.

This book was alright. However, almost everything I read was redundant to to what I'd uncovered from simply Googling "adopting a retired greyhound" and reading forums (notably greytalk.com). It was also pretty short and seemed to be written for someone that doesn't have the time or patience to read a more in depth text.

Bought this bc it was required reading for a GH rescue group. It IS a good book for anybody considering acquiring a GH bc they are unique in many ways and have certain specific needs and characteristics you should know before making that commitment/decision.

I rescued 2 lovely Greyhounds and was struggling a bit with how long it was taking them to settle in. I was recommended to buy this book by a good friend who has ran Greyhound Compassion for many years and was so glad I did. It gives you such a good insight into the awful lives they will have had and how it takes them longer to adapt and why.Greyhounds are the most gentle and loving dogs and are worth every minute you persevere with them. When you do you have the most loyal and wonderful companions who are a true blessing to have in your life.Cannot recommend this book highly enough. Every Rescue Centre that re-homes Greyhounds should tell the new owners of this book.

Interesting read for anyone thinking of adoption a dog. But the specify an American book so not entirely relevant in the UK.

Very useful, although rather too "wordy" for my taste. I prefer Carol Baby's similar book, which is more concise.

for those people who wish to adopt this type of dog, this book makes excellent reading and really helps to get your dog settled as a domestic pet

Very helpful book.