Walking the (new) dog

We have a wonderful new addition to our family.

He's been with us for five weeks now, and he  is gradually settling in.  These photos were taken a few weeks ago when he was still very new and nervous.

He is a rescued ex-racing Greyhound.  Although very large, he is very gentle.

I am just starting to let him off the lead when I have him out for a walk on my own.  This morning he suddenly shot off, and I had to resist the temptation to follow him, I would never have caught up, he really does run like the wind.

Instead I stood still, calling him his name, I was very anxious when he disappeared out of view for well over a minute, so you can imagine my relief when he whizzed back for a piece of Cheddar cheese!  (I am a great believer in bribery when it comes to gaining the confidence of a new dog.)

If you or anyone you know is looking for a new dog, then I can recommend greyhounds.  My last two dogs were also rescued greyhounds.  They are gentle, loving and wonderful to watch when they run (and you know they'll come back).  They are also fabulous with children. And if you have a busy life, they are quite content with two twenty minute walks a day, just make sure they have somewhere comfortable to lie at home and maybe a few toys to play with.

My daughter adores this handsome new fellow, and he has been fine when she has had friends visiting too.



We got him from Hersham Hounds, you can find their website here.  However,  if Hersham is  too far for you,  there are plenty of other specialist greyhound kennels, look at the Retired Greyhound Trust, here, you'll find a kennel local to you.  Please do go and have a look, there will be a dog there who is just right for you.

We have his Pet Passport and are really looking forward to taking him to France at Easter.

I'll be taking many more photographs of him over the next few years, I'm sure you'll get to know him well.