Underdog in an underdog world—saving Charly

I’m passionate about writing, and about greyhounds. So, it makes sense I’d pen about retired racers again, especially since April is National Adopt a Greyhound month. One dog in particular is worthy of my mention because he brings to light the plight of his breed. And his is a tale that deserves a story-book ending, one I hope readers will help deliver.

 At seven o’clock on a dark November evening, I faced my first volunteer shift for a greyhound rescue.  What awaited me overwhelmed me in more ways than I can detail. Approaching a dull, block building I heard the shrill cries of sixty wailing animals, a sound that echoes in my memory still. I will never forget it, or what greeted me as I walked through the door unprepared. Lining the walls and running full length of the lackluster building were wire crates stacked two deep, brimming with wriggling creatures. From between metal bars, expectant eyes peered while excited yips and yaps rose in pitch during my rounds and first kennel turnout.

In the course of my volunteer work, several dogs came and went. Some moved into foster homes. Some left for medical treatment. Some were loaned to veterinary clinics months on end to donate blood (greyhounds are universal donors in the dog world). And some, a small few, made a new life with adoptive families. But more dogs remained, enduring routine caged life for months, even years. 

I adored them all but had my darlings—the underdogs—mostly, black male pups no one wanted. For whatever reason, black dogs are harder to place, their color less desirable to many potential adopters. I wanted to rescue them all and take them home—an unreasonable option. So, my husband and I did the next best thing. We fostered dogs to get them on the adoption list. And one foster underdog made a lasting impression. 

The first time I saw Charly, he’d curled into a tiny ball in the back corner of his crate. Once a proud racer standing tall, he’d become a shadow of his former self. He met my gaze with sorrowful eyes, and I knew I had to do something. That notion solidified when I learned his tragic story.

 

At the early age of three, Charly retired from racing. Without a career, purpose, or home, he took up residency in a greyhound adoption facility. He remained with them for more than a year, spending half of that time on loan to a college veterinary school. Between nerves and neglect, Charly lost significant weight and all of his hair (and during his travels a toe). Rescued once more, he returned to the adoption facility, exhibiting signs of kennel stress. 

When our foster pup, Charly, unfolded out of my car and into our home, I realized the enormity of his size and the opportunity we were providing him. I also realized the demanding task he faced. A greyhound’s transition from track to home is rarely seamless. They know only kennel life and nothing about houses and their pitfalls. But after a few weeks of fostering, greyhounds learn that glass is solid, swimming pools are not, and stairs are maneuverable. Like puppies, retired racers have much to absorb and respond best to exercise, (positive reinforced) discipline, and love.

With eyes like saucers, Charly padded through our front door and into our lives. Within 48 hours, he’d learned a great deal and settled comfortably into domestic living. In reward for good behavior, he graduated from his crate to a doggy bed in the hallway, and eventually to the floor at the foot of our bed. 

 

A gentle soul with a big heart, Charly’s magnetic appeal was unmistakable. At a pet store “Meet and Greet” he stood proud with athletic stature restored and sleek coat shining like his spirit. He greeted shoppers with a greyhound smile and wagging tail, and in response, they showered him in compliments and praise. Charly lapped it up and wriggled even more when kids passed within hand-licking reach, making it obvious how much he loved people and adored children.   

Charly also loved to play and entertain his human hosts. Snatching a toy he dropped into a yoga stance (frontend on the floor buttocks in the air) and initiated playtime. In a black streak he shot around our fenced yard to release energy, pausing once or twice to pounce on a tennis ball. After another series of sprints, he returned winded and spoon-tongued, and flopped down for a breather and belly rub. But playtime had only been placed on hold. 

 As evening drew dark, Charly’s energy level ramped up in anticipation of playtime with his favorite pal “ghost dog.” In the glow of a floor lamp, the patio doors transformed into mirrors and Charly into a puppy. Teasing the phantom in the glass, he spun in circles, tossing, catching, and shaking squeaky toys while dispersing stuffing everywhere. With a canine grin, he assumed downward dog pose then wagged his tail and barked at the mirror image. Ghost pup yipped and wagged back, propelling Charly into a frenzy of circles around the room until he made himself dizzy. He knew window pup wasn’t real but loved pretending all the same. He played this way until he and his imaginary friend tired of the game. Panting and gratified, he plopped to the floor where he hugged his favorite toy, an elongated snoopy, and settled in for a nap. Charly was a fun and loving dog, and he enriched our lives.

As much as we loved Charly, we were unable to keep him. We parted ways with our foster pup, thankful for the chance to know him and put him on a path for adoption. But the thought of him resuming kennel life again (awaiting his forever home) haunts me. I’ve glimpsed a fraction of what racing dogs endure, and enough to ensure sleepless nights. Still, I refuse to retire my fight to save greyhounds, or find a loving home for Charly and others like him. 

 For thousands of years dogs like Charly stood tall, revered amongst ancient Egyptian’s as honored family members. With time, greyhounds made their way into the noble homes of Medieval England, saving the breed from extinction but transforming them with American colonization into a lucrative sporting commodity. As Wikipedia pointed out, “Greyhound[s] are an investment.” For more than one hundred years, they’ve endured varying degrees of abuse and neglect, often becoming disposable products in a risky business venture. Animal advocacy groups have made great strides to protect dogs, but greyhound life has improved only marginally. At least now most unwanted racers are euthanized, rather than shot and fed to successors. Although animal protection agencies are opposed to dog racing, many skirt the issue, knowing the volume of animals to be rescued would overwhelm their resources. Pit Bulls endured a similar fate, and dark side of humanity, but that has changed in recent years due to public outcry and their abuses being brought to light. Sadly, greyhounds still stand in the shadows, but growing concern has led to some improvements in the past ten years. Thanks to recent reductions in overall births, and caring individuals on both sides of the industry, an estimated 60,000 dogs destroyed per year has dropped to about ten thousand while adoptions have risen to nearly 20,000.* Still, euthanasia of greyhounds remains too high even though the number no longer resembles the yearly genocide once exercised. Obviously, more needs to be done. Until public ignorance, ineffective regulation, and industry overbreeding are corrected, these majestic dogs will continue to stand in ruins at the bottom of the underdog world.  

 Adoption is currently the greyhound’s only hope. It is also a great way to own a pedigreed, purebred for only $200, and worth every penny. Greyhounds are remarkable dogs and loving pets that deserve better than they’ve received. And I remain hopeful that someday soon, with continued effort and increased awareness, Charly and other greyhounds will no longer suffer as the underdogs in a decadent underdog world, but resume their former glory as the pride of a civilized society.  

 "A nation's greatness is measured by how it treats its weakest members." ~ Mahatma Ghandi

For information about greyhounds and adoption visit the following websites:

http://www.great-greyhound.org/    http://www.greyhoundpets.com/index.php   

http://forum.greytalk.com/   http://www.grey2kusa.org/   http://www.grey2kusa.org/pdf/nationalfact.pdf  

* Historical and numerical data based on information provided by Lee Livingood, Retired Racing Greyhounds for Dummies, Whiley Publishing Inc., 2002: 8, 16; and, Cynthia A Branigan, Adopting the Racing Greyhound, Whiley Publishing Inc., 1992-2003, 1-10.

Race for the greys!

 After a career of chasing the white rabbit,

Denny spends retirement snuggling to a pink bunny

I’m by no means an athlete, and while my work keeps my mind and fingers active, writing does little to keep my body fit. With that in mind, I’ve decided to utilize my literary skills to promote an event that will not only move my feet but also lift my spirits, and I hope you will join me.

On Sunday, March 11, 2012, GPA-Tampa Bay (Greyhound Pets of America) is hosting a spring “Race for the greys” fundraising event. This five kilometer run or one mile walk (your choice) with Man’s best friend (bring your barking buddy) promises to be a fun time that will motivate you physically and passionately. It will be a morning filled with prizes and raffles for fitness experts and non-athletic types alike, as well as canine companions. And for a small fee, your participation will contribute toward food, shelter, and medical treatment for adoptable greyhounds. So, if spending an entertaining, sun-drenched day outdoors for a good cause appeals to you, don’t hesitate to sign up and attend this greyt event. 

 

“Race for the greys” is sponsored by local businesses interested in seeing retired racers treated well in the autumn years of their lives, like my former foster pup Denny. GPA-Tampa Bay is seeking additional sponsorship. If your business can benefit from inexpensive advertising and wants to support the vital efforts of a worthy organization, then have some fun and sponsor the run.

Most of all, if you like dogs, appreciate exercise, or simply want to enjoy a fun-filled day that will aid our four legged friends this event will do your heart good in so many ways. Join me and GPA-Tampa Bay on March 11^th to race for the greys. I look forward to seeing you there!

For details about this event and how to participate as a runner/walker, or become a sponsor, read the information below and visit the online link provided. 

  

Help support retired greyhounds from Derby Lane

by participating in this fun 5k race or 1 mile walk

When:          March 11, 2012 at 8:00 AM

Where:         Lake Seminole Park 10015 Park Blvd. (74^th Ave. N)

Seminole, FL 33777

Entry Fee:   5K Run: $20 before March 1, 2012 or $25 after

March 1, 2012      

     

1 Mile Walk: $10 before March 1, 2012 or $15 after March 1, 2012

Register:     For event information and sponsorship forms visit: http://www.greyhoundpets.com/ 

 “Race for the greys” logo created for GPA-Tampa Bay by C. Crawford

A gift for life

There are many heartwarming stories to share during the Holiday Season, but my recent exposure to one honorable cause touched my heart so deeply I’ve decided to dedicate my December blog to it. This is a noble purpose to match the season, one filled with giving and sharing, and hopefully, the saving of not only one life, but of many.

When I visited a local PetSmart a few months ago I met several kind individuals volunteering their time and resources to promote an organization they believed in (Greyhound Pets of America). They were also fostering many of the retired racing dogs in need of good homes. As I spoke with the volunteers I found myself hugging a fawn-colored female named Frances and petting a brindle-coated male named Joey. With wagging tails the dogs bathed my face in sloppy kisses. Their affection seemed so endless I felt a need to promote their cause. After all, who could resist sweet, doe-eyed pups brimming with so much love and trust? Sadly, their tender spirit hides the loneliness they’ve endured most, if not all, of their lives. I find it difficult to imagine these loyal animals alone for the holidays, pining in metal cages. As a pet for a happy, dog-loving family, greyhounds are the perfect choice. I can think of no gentler or more deserving animal with whom to share a home.

Photo courtesy of fastdogs.org via Google Images

In my recent research, I’ve discovered the truth about greys (greyhounds). They are not simply a logo or a caricature painted on the side of a bus, but they are the fastest—and most loving—couch potato on the planet. I also found the objective of most greyhound rescues simple and straightforward. Their primary goal: to protect the animals they serve and save as many lives as possible. Most grey shelters work hard to place ready dogs into reliable homes. Some go further to promote awareness, informing the public about the over-breeding of racing dogs and the thousands of euthanized greyhounds as a result.*  But too often, these rescue efforts go unnoticed, buried under a stampede of other charitable organizations beating a path to everyone’s doorstep, especially during the holidays. Even so, it doesn’t make the life-saving message any less urgent or the need for forever homes any less vital. Fortunately, there is a way for anyone interested to aid the greys without a great deal of time, effort, or expense.  I speak of a gift that will provide seasonal cheer and much more to numerous loving pups, and continue giving well into the New Year.

Most greyhound agencies, staffed by volunteers, exist mainly as a result of local goodwill and donations. Without community support, fewer and fewer dogs will be saved. For that reason, I volunteer my time and labor to help out, and look forward to fostering greys in the near future. Of course, not everyone is able to donate in this way, but there are other ways to aid the greys. Sometimes, a worthwhile donation can be as simple as a used blanket. Getting rid of old and unwanted items can be a huge help—one dog’s garbage is another pup’s treasure, so to speak.

Photo of Jet, courtesy of Dave Kirschner

Apart from a dire need for foster homes, monetary donations, and volunteer efforts, here are a few items listed on local greyhound rescue sites that will benefit their work and their dogs, and won’t break the bank:  

MilkBone dog biscuits, chicken & rice canned dog food, canola oil, canned pumpkin (not spiced), dog toys, old collars and leashes, new or used comforters and blankets, bed sheets, bleach, laundry detergent, scrub sponges, baby wipes, paper towel, duct tape, pens and pencils, giant plastic crates, high-grade dog food, (Adam’s) flea and tick shampoo, and if the opportunity presents itself, a full-sized vehicle in excellent working condition for transporting animals and supplies. 

Photo courtesy of fastfriends.org via Google Images

So, if you’re rummaging through pantries, closets, or the garage in preparation for the season please think of the greys. And if you own any of the items listed above and wish to donate them, know that your gifts will be well received (see links below). And know your generosity can provide happier holidays for needful pups without adding additional burden to your limited time and resources. 

Of course, if you prefer to donate funds or volunteer to aid these gentle dogs, then please do so by visiting a local greyhound rescue (also see links below). And if you are able to give the ultimate gift—your loving home—open your heart and arms and welcome a greyhound into your life for fostering or adoption, and give a loyal friend the best present of all—a forever home.   

Photo of Zoey and Jet, courtesy of Dave Kirschner

For more information about local (Tampa Bay area) and national greyhound rescues, and how you can help, visit the following links.

To contact local and national greyhound agencies:
http://www.greyhoundpets.com/index.php   
http://www.greyhoundpets.org 
http://www.great-greyhound.org  
http://www.goldcoastgreyhoundsorlando.com 
http://friendsofgreyhounds.org/fog/  
http://www.greyhoundpetsorlando.org/ 
http://www.ahome4greys.org/home   
http://www.ngap.org/about-ngap-y283.html 

 To learn more about greys and if they’re the perfect fit for your family and lifestyle:

http://www.fastdogs.org/greyt_hounds.html     

http://www.great-greyhound.org/faq.htm

To donate supplies within the Tampa Bay area:

http://www.greyhoundpets.com/wishlist.php  

http://www.great-greyhound.org/wishlist.htm

To make a monetary donation to a local agency: 

http://www.greyhoundpets.com/index.php 

http://www.great-greyhound.org/

To volunteer your time with a local rescue: http://www.greyhoundpets.com/volunteer_application.htm

To foster a grey (there is a critical need for emergency foster homes):

http://www.greyhoundpets.com/fostering.php    

http://www.great-greyhound.org/forms/ApplyForm.htm

To adopt a grey:

http://www.greyhoundpets.com/adopt_application.php

http://www.great-greyhound.org/availablethumbnails.htm

Whether or not you celebrate the Holidays have a safe, healthy, and happy season. And if you’re able, please share your love with others by giving your support to a worthy cause. But if you have room in your heart and home to make a friend for life, and in the process save a life, please adopt or foster a greyhound, or simply spread the love and good will and pass on this message.  Happy Holidays!

Photo courtesy of longleggedbeauties.org via Google Images

*For information regarding this topic please visit the GREAT website: http://www.great-greyhound.org/faq.htm

Remembering Dan

Grieving is a painful process, and tougher still when someone young and vibrant is lost. So, it is with a sorrowful heart that I, and the world with me, mourn the loss of a legend among men in Dan Wheldon. Even more than that, he was an extraordinary human being and one I’d had the honor and pleasure of meeting. 

On October 16, 2011, a loving family (spanning three countries) lost its father, husband, and son; teammates lost a friend; a racing league lost an icon; the city of St. Petersburg lost one of its own; and as a fan, I lost my reason for cheering. 

Daniel Clive Wheldon, a native of England, moved to the United States to follow his passion and fulfill his dream of racing cars. Hitting the paved track at 200 plus miles per hour, he transitioned along with a reorganizing motorsports league, and nearly overnight went from rooky status to iconic figure and leader in IndyCar.  

After years of following his career with anticipation, my husband and I sat before the television and watched the Las Vegas championship race get underway, thrilled that Dan had a chance to race in the final competition of 2011—the same year he’d celebrated the birth of his second son, and won the Indianapolis 500 for a second time. But before long we were greeted by an unbelievable sight. In disbelief, we eventually learned what the world now mourns. Since then, like so many others, I have found it difficult coming to terms with this loss and can only imagine the heartache and shock his family and friends are experiencing. I had looked forward to meeting Dan again in upcoming years, and applauding his successes in 2012 with his return to Andretti Motorsports, but now instead, I reflect back to earlier days of treasured memories.

My interest in IndyCar racing always existed but clinched in 2007 when I picked up my husband and his friend (both longtime fans of the sport) after the downtown race in St. Pete. The two were all smiles and exhilaration from a fun-filled day. Matching their enthusiasm, I joined the sporting camaraderie and followed every race thereafter. But I needed someone to root for, and so, became a dedicated fan to one driver: Dan Wheldon. He was an energetic, entertaining racer with a personable and charismatic charm—who had married a woman from my country of origin (Canada) and like myself had chosen St. Petersburg as a home—and so he became the perfect choice. To Dan I remained loyal and at every race in which he participated jumped up and down and screamed in anticipation of his success.  

On the afternoon of April 6, 2008, I attended my first race, paddock pass in hand. I took my seat in the grandstands at the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg amidst a drenched crowd, sporting rain ponchos and umbrellas as a result of an earlier downpour, and eagerly awaited the start of a delayed race.  Dan did not win that day, but I cheered him on all the same. After the race, my husband and I ventured to the paddock, and like other fans, hoped for a brief moment of the racer’s attention. Emerging from his trailer and running late for a meeting, Dan graciously took the time to sign autographs and pose for photos with his fans, one of them being me.

The following spring of 2009, my mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer and after spending untold hours by her side in a dismal hospital, I embraced the St. Pete race once again, this time with unrivaled enthusiasm. I needed the uplifting break it provided from a disturbing situation and the grief I knew would soon follow. After the race, and again with paddock pass in hand, I not only posed for another photograph with Dan but also had time to congratulate him on the birth of his first child and visit with his wife Susie as she introduced me to their nine week old son, Sebastian. The time spent with Dan and his family became the highlight of my year—one bright moment in a very dark and difficult time. Dan’s generosity and Susie’s kindness meant the world to me that day. I realized then that they were a truly wonderful couple, and I’d placed my support behind a remarkable man.

Now my heart breaks for Susie and the family as they endure and rebuild from devastation. Along with Dan’s family and friends who mourn him, and an entire city and world of fans who loved him, I grieve the passing of a wonderful person and bid farewell to a passionate racecar driver who will be tremendously missed.  My deepest sympathies go out to his family, hoping fond memories will comfort them along with the knowledge that, to the last, Dan lived his life passionately pursuing his dream.  Rest in peace Dan Wheldon.

Sometimes, the best way to grieve is to get involved and feel included. Locally in St. Petersburg, a funeral service for Dan will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22 at First Presbyterian Church of St. Petersburg, located at 701 Beach Drive N.E. in St. Petersburg, FL. Susie Wheldon has invited the community to attend the service and share in celebrating her husband’s life.  For more information on the service, donations, condolences, or view the tribute to Dan, visit this link:  http://saintpetersburg.wtsp.com/news/news/86594-dan-wheldon-funeral-arrangements-announced

Also, a public memorial service in honor of Dan Wheldon will be held at Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis at 4 p.m. (ET) on Sunday, October 23, and will be broadcast on www.indycar.com, VERSUS, WRTV-6, and WTTV-4. For more information about the service or to make a donation to his family please visit the following link: http://www.danwheldonmemorial.com/  

If you wish to pay your respects, feel free to light a candle or leave your condolences with the St Pete Times guestbook or IndyCar Facebook: http://www.legacy.com/guestbook/sptimes/guestbook.aspx?n=dan-wheldon&pid=154178896&page=8        

http://www.facebook.com/indycar

Below are a couple of touching articles that pay tribute to the life of this wonderful man and racer: http://www.tampabay.com/sports/autoracing/article1197164.ece http://msn.foxsports.com/motor/story/Dan-Wheldon-mixed-IndyCar-talent-with-personality-family-101611