Homer
Spring & Summer 2014 - Issue 40
The Magazine of the Retired Greyhound Trust
Inside this issue: Homing Greyhounds in Scotland Jilly Cooper on Her Favourites Your Photos, Stories & Poems Plus much more
Also, great gifts for your pets, friends & family
CONTENTS
Dear friends,
News..................................................3 Fundraisers & Supporters..............8 Rogues’ Gallery..............................10 Veterinary Corner..........................12 Adoption Appeal...........................13 In Memory.......................................14 Poetry Corner.................................16 RGT Merchandise..........................17
Homer Retired Greyhound Trust 2nd Floor, Park House, 1-4 Park Terrace Worcester Park, Surrey KT4 7JZ T: 020 8335 3016 E: homer@retiredgreyhounds.co.uk W: www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk Facebook: facebook.com/rgtrust Twitter: twitter.com/rgt_uk
This summer we’re taking our fundraising to new heights with the group skydive ‘Fall for Hounds’. The jump takes place in Peterborough this June and at the time of writing we have more than 40 people signed up to jump 13,000 feet (that’s more than two miles). We want to get as many people as possible participating, whether it is from the air or by making a donation from the ground, so please help if you can. See page 8 to find out more. Last year we received more than 1,200 images for our Calendar Contest and this year we are hoping to get even more. All the proceeds from the calendar sales go to our greyhounds so please send in your images. The submission details are on page 16. We are always looking for new ways to help raise funds to care for the dogs in our kennels. In your magazine pack you’ll notice a recycling envelope for broken or unwanted jewellery and foreign or expired bank notes. If you have any of these items in the back of a drawer that you no longer want, please consider recycling them for the RGT. Have a look too at pages 17-19 to see our selection of RGT merchandise. We’ve introduced some great new items that we hope you’ll enjoy.
Charity Numbers: 269668 & SC044047
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Greyhound Extravaganza, on 25 May in Newmarket, and the Great Greyhound Gathering on 20 September in Nottingham. These days out are not just fun for your pets but for the whole family.
Editor: Samuel Zelmer-Jackson Deputy Editor: Lucy Ferrier Homer Magazine is produced twice a year, in Spring and Autumn, by the Retired Greyhound Trust. The Trust accepts no liability for any errors or views expressed in this publication.
Thank you for the continued support. I hope you enjoy this issue.
The views of contributors and advertisers do not necessarily match the views or policies of the RGT, its trustees, employees or volunteers. While the Trust includes as many submissions and photos as possible, regretfully due to space limitations not everything can be included. To provide a submission for the next issue, please email: homer@retiredgreyhounds.co.uk Get your product or service seen by thousands of greyhound lovers across Britain. Email homer@ retiredgreyhounds.co.uk to find out about display advert opportunities in future issues of Homer. Each issue is read by more than 150,000 people. The Retired Greyhound Trust comprises 70 branches located across Britain which find around 4,000 homes for greyhounds every year. To locate and contact your nearest branch, visit: retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/BranchLocations/ or call 020 8335 3016. Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means whatsoever without prior written permission from the copyright holder.
2
Welcome to the Spring & Summer 2014 edition of Homer magazine.
Samuel Zelmer-Jackson Editor
Q: A:
Can a greyhound live with a cat or other small animal?
Ye s, b u t k e e p i n m i n d t h a t g r e y h o u n d s a r e j u s t l i k e o t h e r d o g b r e e d s ; s o m e l i k e c a t s, s o m e d o n’t . M a ny g r e y h o u n d s a r e h a p p y t o l i ve w i t h s m a l l a n i m a l s, w h e t h e r t h e y a r e c a t s, r a b b i t s o r e ve n c h i c k e n s. S o m e g r e y h o u n d s p r e fe r t o o n l y l i ve w i t h o t h e r d o g s a n d o t h e r s a r e b e s t w h e n t h e y a r e t h e o n l y a n i m a l i n t h e h o u s e. I f yo u a r e l o o k i n g t o a d o p t a g r e y h o u n d b u t h ave a p e t , p l e a s e t e l l yo u r l o c a l R G T b r a n c h s o t h e y c a n s e e i f t h e y c a n m a t c h t h e p e r fe c t d o g t o yo u . We h ave c r e a t e d a n e w s e r i e s o f b e h av i o u r a l l e a f l e t s t h a t c o ve r t o p i c s s u c h a s B a s i c Co m m a n d s & We are very Tr a i n i n g, L i v i n g w i t h C a t s & S m a l l A n i m a l s, grateful to betting Separation & Anxiety Issues and Indoor exchange Betfair K e n n e l & C r a t e Tr a i n i n g. I f yo u wo u l d l i k e a for sponsoring copy of one of these leaflets please contact this edition of yo u r l o c a l R G T b r a n c h o r t h e R G T H e a d O f f i c e Homer magazine. on 020 8335 3016.
Do you have a question? Email it to homer@retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
Homer Magazine Spring & Summer 2014
www.betfair.com
NEWS
Homing Greyhounds in Scotland The Retired Greyhound Trust made waves last Autumn as Cat Cubie, TV presenter, shared her love of greyhounds and backed a campaign to find loving homes for greyhounds in Scotland.
The RGT has seven branches in Scotland, from the Isle of Skye to the Scottish Borders, that rehome hundreds of greyhounds every year. However there are many more dogs patiently waiting for their new family. This campaign urged dog lovers to consider adopting a retired greyhound as their next pet and to support their local RGT branch. Cat, a fan of the breed, said: "Greyhounds might be known for their speed on the track but they are actually very calm and loving animals."
She took part in a photo shoot at the Trust’s West Lothian branch with a number of greyhounds actively looking for homes. These images formed the backbone of the campaign, which included editorial and adverts that were printed in national newspapers across Scotland. This news coverage drove readers to a unique site www.rgtscotland.co.uk, where they could find out about the dogs and contact their local branches. There is no doubt that the impact from this campaign will carry on for months to come, but the initial impact has been fantastic, with the total homing from the Scotland-based branches up 26% in 2013’s fourth quarter. Thank you to Cat, our Scotland branches, volunteers and everyone who helped make this homing drive a success.
"I might be a Cat, but I am also a lover of dogs, and greyhounds are some of the very best pets you can own. They have such lovely and charming personalities. "There are many retired greyhounds that need new homes and honestly, how could you say no to their lovely wee faces?" - Cat Cubie, TV Presenter
Sarah Takes the Trophy Sarah Horner, lead volunteer at the Lancashire and Belle Vue branch, was recently awarded the George Ford Award for services to Retired Greyhounds. The award, which recognises outstanding work in the rehoming of ex-racing greyhounds, has been awarded since 1999. Frances Allen, RGT Trustee and Chair of the Veterinary Committee, said: "The Trust wouldn't be able to help so many greyhounds without the support of our volunteers like Sarah Horner, an extraordinary lady. She has overcome her own personal challenges, and has built one of the Trust's most successful branches that has homed over 250 greyhounds in the last three years alone." Sarah Horner said: "We are very proud
of our branch and what we have done so far, but receiving this award seems especially humbling as we know the great work that other RGT branches do around the country. It does take a lot of effort and sheer hard work to make a branch successful.
transport the greyhounds into our care and everyone who attends and supports our events. Thank you to them all."
"I want to personally thank everyone who is part of the Lancashire and Belle Vue RGT branch. Without everyone working together we just wouldn't be able to accomplish what we do. “There are many people who help make the branch successful including home-checkers, fundraisers, foster-carers, vets, people who run the kennels, people that
Sarah Horner, lead volunteer at Lancashire & Belle Vue RGT
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
3
NEWS
The Greatest Greyhound Gathering Yet
Crufts 2014
The RGT returned to Crufts this year to raise awareness and show the public that greyhounds are fantastic pets. The Hall Green, Perry Barr and Wolverhampton branches were all represented and brought dogs for visitors to interact with. One of the activities at the RGT stand was a prize draw for an iPad Mini, which was kindly donated by Altodigital. Hundreds of people entered and the lucky winner was Michael Baker of Birmingham. Thank you everyone who attended.
The Retired Greyhound Trust returned to Nottingham Racecourse on Saturday 21 September 2013 for the seventh annual Great Greyhound Gathering (GGG). This event, which is the largest in the Trust's calendar, attracted visitors from across Britain for a Kennel Club-registered dog show and family fun day out. Both show classes and novelty classes proceeded throughout the day in three rings, with hundreds of greyhounds and other breeds trying their best to take home a trophy. Some of the largest novelty classes had in excess of 75 greyhounds vying for the judges' attention. The RGT Retired Greyhound of the Year was won by Patch, a stunning four year old white and brindle dog who represented the Hollin Hall RGT branch. The Best in Show Greyhound was won by Thyme, a strapping white and fawn greyhound. One of the show's newer classes is the Best RGT Greyhound Available for Adoption which was won
James Fernihough from Altodigital drew the winning entry for the iPad Mini.
Jilly, Feather & Bluebell
Women’s Health Magazine These leggy greyhound beauties from our Harlow branch starred in Women’s Health magazine last autumn.
Jilly Cooper is a not only an accomplished author, she is also the proud owner of two retired greyhounds. She is quick to explain why this particular dog breed has raced away with her heart and questions why black greyhounds seem to be overlooked in rehoming kennels.
The Trust is very sad to report the death of Patrick Nixon who passed away in Hinchingbrooke Hospital, Cambridge, following major surgery.
She said: “Few things have given me more pleasure in life than in rescuing two black ex-racing greyhounds from Ireland. Feather, the elder, has the most adorable and loving nature, and on walks he dances merrily and takes my hand gently in his mouth as we cross the lawn. Then suddenly when he feels he has not had quite enough exercise, he will do ten laps around the lawn or field at huge speed which causes huge joy to everybody, particularly my grandchildren. The beautiful thing about greyhounds is they move so beautifully and slide past you like a skein of silk and never knock you over, which is wonderful for older owners.
Patrick, who was 68 last June, was a much valued Trustee of the RGT and he also served on the Trust’s Finance Committee. His sound advice, experience, pragmatism and good humour will be sorely missed and the RGT sends its condolences to Patrick’s wife Sally and their family.
“Bluebell, who came to us 4 years later, is utterly adorable and completely different. She is a total applause junky and can’t bear attention directed on anyone else. She is huge fun, very larky and both these beautiful dogs keep us in fits of laughter, and to see them running across the fields is beautiful.
Patrick Nixon
4
Patch with Sarah Waggott, handler
by Ruby, a sleek fawn six-year-old bitch also from the Hollin Hall branch. This year’s Great Greyhound Gathering is shaping up to be even more exciting and will be held on 20th September 2014. Don’t miss it! To find out more visit www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/GreatGreyhound-Gathering/ “A lovely thing for a writer too is that greyhounds are incredibly restful. Once mine have had their walk, they will follow me up to my study at the top of the house, stretch out on sofas and sleep for hours. They greet everybody who comes to the house with the same wonderful toothy smile. “My great sorrow is that black greyhounds seem the least popular and stay the longest in kennels before finding homes. This seems so sad as I think they are the most beautiful and most affectionate of the breed, then, I’m biased. I could not love mine more and I am so grateful for the day they came to live with me.” Turn to page 13 to find greyhounds currently looking for a forever home.
Jilly Cooper, Feather & Bluebell (image by J. Zatonski)
Homer Magazine Spring & Summer 2014
You are invited to the...
2014 Greyhound Extravaganza Greyhound Show & All Breeds Fun Dog Show Family Dog Show with classes for all breeds including lurchers and cross breeds and a ring for novelty and fun classes, all in a beautiful setting.
Sunday 25 May 2014 Animal Health Trust, Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU
Trade stands ยบ Refreshments ยบ Car Parking Picnic Area ยบ Cafe ยบ Gift Shop Entry fee ยฃ2.00 per class Registration from 9:00 am Judging commences at 10:30 am in four rings Trophies for all winners and rosettes for all entries Meet greyhounds looking for loving homes
For the full show schedule and more information on trade stands and class entries, contact the show organisers on 0845 602 2658 or 07787 701695 or visit:
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/Greyhound-Extravaganza
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
5
NEWS
50/50 for East Anglia Our East Anglia branch, also known as Kama’s Cave, has started a new fundraising programme, their monthly 50/50 Draw.
New RGT Trustee
Joe Scanlon has joined the Trust’s Board of Trustees. He said: “It is an honour to be invited to join the RGT’s ranks. I look forward to meeting the people who work towards making the difference for greyhounds.”
Brands Hatch RGT is off to a Great Start Since opening its doors to the public in September 2013, Brands Hatch RGT has enjoyed a successful first few months and is looking forward to an exciting year ahead. Located just one mile from the famous motoring racetrack, the branch has already found loving homes for eight retired greyhounds. Branch co-ordinator Karen Farley has high hopes for the coming year: “Whilst we have enjoyed the successes of the first few months, we still have a kennel full of super characters waiting to be chosen.” To find out more about Brands Hatch RGT, for volunteering opportunities or to adopt a greyhound, call 07760 440142 or visit www.dunrunnin.org.
This fun programme collects money into a pot and at the end of each month a winner is drawn: half of the sum goes to this individual and the other half supports the greyhounds at the branch. The more tickets purchased, the larger the prize and the more money given to the greyhounds. To find out more or to buy tickets for the 50/50 Draw, visit www.kamascave.eu or call 01406 330459. Also, mark your calendar now for their August Fun Day, on Sunday 24 August 2014.
Leave Your Legacy to Help Retired Greyhounds
size – makes a huge difference to our work and to our greyhounds and we are very grateful for every single gift.
Have you considered leaving a gift to greyhounds in your Will?
For more information about leaving a legacy or to notify us of inclusion in your Will, please call 0208 335 3016 or email greyhounds@ retiredgreyhounds.co.uk.
Legacies are a fundamental part of our income as they allow us to continue our vital work and help us to care for and re-home future generations of ex-racing greyhounds. At any point in time we have 850 greyhounds in kennels that we care for. Every hound we home is neutered, has dental care and is vaccinated. These costs are one of the Trust’s biggest annual expenses, but we believe that every greyhound deserves the best start when they are adopted into their new home. Every gift in a Will – no matter what
Memories are Made of This Dinah’s Recovery! Last year retired greyhound owner John experienced the importance of pet insurance when late one evening his greyhound Dinah chased after a cat and injured her legs. John was told by the vet to expect the worst as Dinah had broken both of her hind legs and was very ill. Luckily she responded well to the vet care and within 48 hours had surgery to fit her legs with titanium rods. After ten days Dinah was recovering back at home with John!
insurance gives retired greyhound owners peace of mind in the event that their greyhound has an unexpected illness or injury. We work in partnership with Petplan to offer all RGT supporters a 10% discount on Petplan policies when you buy online. In addition, if supporters of Retired Greyhound Trust take out a full Petplan policy then
Petplan will give 10% of the premium back to RGT, and a further 10% every year at renewal. These valuable funds help us continue to care for retired greyhounds who have not yet found a new home. Find out more about Petplan pet insurance at www.petplan.co.uk/rgt
Dinah’s vet provided her with the best care possible, and because she was covered by Petplan insurance John did not have to worry about the financial implications of the vet care. Overall Petplan paid £4,000 of Dinah’s veterinary treatment. Dinah’s health has hugely improved and she’s now able to run again. At the Great Greyhound Gathering last September John and Dinah visited the Petplan team to show them the progress Dinah has made! As shown with John and Dinah, pet
6
John and Dinah visit the Petplan stand at the Great Greyhound Gathering to thank them for their support
Homer Magazine Spring & Summer 2014
CVS Names RGT ‘Conference Charity of the Year’ CVS (UK) Limited has named the RGT as its ‘2014 Conference Charity of the year’. This partnership will see the 255 CVS veterinary centres around the UK support the national greyhound charity by raising awareness of its work, fundraising and attending RGT events throughout the year. Barry Brackner, Marketing and Commercial Director from CVS said: “Not only are the hundreds of professionals working with CVS dedicated to the care and welfare of animals, they are eager to help support charities that share these values. We feel that the Retired Greyhound Trust does a fantastic job homing thousands of greyhounds every year and we wanted to do our part to help their mission. “Our teams will not only be supporting the RGT at local levels through fundraising; the charity will be the featured guest at our annual conference, so our employees can get a chance to learn more about greyhounds and how the charity operates. “We are also working to ensure that greyhound owners are aware of the Healthy Pet Club which provides significant discounts on annual preventative veterinary care, so that their beloved pets are protected under this plan. From £9.99 a month they will get their annual vaccinations including Kennel Cough, monthly flea and worm treatment with Advocate and many other savings including 10% off services.” To find out more about the Healthy Pet Club visit www.thehealthypetclub.co.uk
Waltham Abbey Walk
Barry Brackner and Peter Laurie
The Retired Greyhound Trust has been presented with a cheque to the value of £5000 from feed company Dodson & Horrell, which has committed to donating £1 to the charity for every bag sold of its specialist feed, Pet Greyhound.
“Sales of Pet Greyhound continue to increase month by month and we look forward to donating further funds to the Trust to contribute positively to the lives of retired greyhounds.”
Sam Horrell, Marketing Director at Dodson & Horrell, said: “We’re delighted that our new Pet Greyhound feed has been so successful as it means we have been able to donate £5000 to the Retired Greyhound Trust, whose work
Not only are we looking for good homes for the greyhounds at this branch, we are also hoping that some greyhound lovers in the Crewe area will consider becoming an official RGT volunteer. Whether you are looking to help raise funds, promote the RGT locally or just want to help walk the dogs at the kennels, your help will be very welcome.
info@summerhillpethotel.co.uk.
is critical in helping find homes for greyhounds once their racing days are over.
Peter Laurie said: “We have had a fantastic response to Pet Greyhound with hundreds of our supporters now feeding it regularly to their dogs and sending in rave reviews. Not only is Pet Greyhound the perfect feed for greyhounds, it is also ideal for other large and medium-sized dog breeds and we are proud to have our name on it.”
Our newly launched Crewe branch is off and running with a dozen loving greyhounds patiently waiting for their new homes.
To find out more about volunteering call 01270 620225 or email
Pet Greyhound Food Sales Donations
Developed in close collaboration with the Retired Greyhound Trust and expert nutritionists, Pet Greyhound is designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of pet greyhounds and lurchers and has been very well received by customers since landing on shelves last year.
Become Part of the Crewe Crew
In November, the Waltham Abbey RGT branch, at Whittingham Kennels, held a sponsored greyhound walk organised in conjunction with Medivet, Waltham Abbey. It was open to all breeds, although primarily greyhounds, and it had a great turnout from the branch’s supporters. The volunteers also ensured that all the kennel dogs joined in with the walk too!
Pet Greyhound retails at £25 for a 15kg bag or £40 for 2 bags delivered and is available from Retired Greyhound Trust Branches and affiliated re-homing centres as well as the Dodson & Horrell online store. To order Pet Greyhound visit: www.dodsonandhorrellpetfood.co.uk.
Pelaw Grange Takes Over Star Radio Pelaw Grange branch has seen a steady uptake in adoptions since taking out a slot on local Star Radio. They get regular slots on the station at various times of the day, and in the last six months has received treble the usual enquiries from prospective adopters, most of which have led to successful adoptions. The advert has also helped other branches in the area which is all good news for the charity, as any positive coverage of our work is the aim at the end of the day.
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
Support for Deaf Dogs and Their Owners The Deaf Dog Network exists to provide information and assistance on deaf dog behaviour and training. They are looking for help building their network by asking for those with any experience with deaf dogs to get involved. They are also available for advice about training an older dog that might become deafened. To find out more visit www. deafdognetwork.org.uk or email thedeafdognetwork@hotmail.co.uk.
7
FUNDRAISERS & SUPPORTERS Donation for East Midlands Give a Bit Back Golf Day Mandy Rowlands from Kirkfields Equestrian Centre donated a cheque for £1420 to the East Midlands RGT branch. Mandy, her staff and friends work tirelessly and have raised over £5,000 for the East Midlands Branch over the past three years. The money has been raised with sponsored rides, Fun Dog shows, waxing for charity, raffles, selling RGT merchandise, cakes and scones and collecting money at the stables.
The time has come again for the Give a Bit Back Golf Day. This fundraising event, which is organised by RGT honorary friend Daren Johnson, will be held on Thursday 5th June 2014 at the London Golf Club, home of this year’s Volvo World Match Play Championship. The golf day is open to teams of four at £1,000 per team and includes: •
Breakfast, 3 course meal, free use of buggies • Amazing prizes • Evening entertainment • Auction To find out more about the golf day or to reserve your team, contact Daren at daren.johnson@ukgunite.co.uk.
BAGS of Support Woofstock Rocks On Last summer the 5th annual Woofstock festival took place at the Angel Inn Yarwell, and it raised an outstanding £2,900. That means that Woofstock has raised more than £8,500 for the RGT. This year’s event is scheduled for 26-27 July. To find out more about Woofstock, visit www.woofstock.co.uk.
Falling For Hounds If you are a greyhound lover and a thrill seeker, you are invited to Fall For Hounds, a charity skydiving event to raise funds for the RGT. This fundraising opportunity of a lifetime is being coordinated by Julie Collier with all the proceeds going to the
In late 2013 the RGT was delighted to receive a £56,000 donation from the Bookmakers Afternoon Greyhound Service (BAGS), to support specific promotional initiatives in the first half of 2014. This donation followed a £65,000 contribution from BAGS earlier in 2013 to fund projects to raise awareness of the suitability of greyhounds as pets, and to develop the Trust’s donor base. BAGS also made donations to the RGT in 2011 and 2012. RGT. Everyone who participates will be jumping from a light aircraft at 13,000 feet - that’s 2 miles and a 50 second free fall! Plummeting towards the ground at over 120 mph is sure to get your heart racing! Peter, Amanda and Samuel from the RGT head office are taking part and are hoping you will get involved too to raise funds for hounds.
Yes, I would like to support Peter, Amanda and Samuel and make a donation to their skydiving challenge!
5th Annual Great British Greyhound Walk “Every Dog Has Its Day” and this year it is Sunday 22nd June. In the heady “Dog Days of Summer” the Great British Greyhound Walk is holding its annual dog-walking event that brings together greyhounds, lurchers, other sighthounds and their owners, to raise awareness and show members of the public just what wonderful pets greyhounds make. Many of the RGT’s branches will be taking part. All of this year’s walks will be listed on www. greatbritishgreyhoundwalk.org.uk.
RGT Around the World Mark Davies sent this photo of his Land Rover with an RGT Wheel Cover while exploring southern Morocco near the Algerian border. Thanks for spreading word of the RGT!
When: 16 June 2014 at 9:00am through the day, Where: Airfield near Peterborough How: Visit www.retiredgreyhounds. co.uk/Fall-for-Hounds for all the information Or: Support us from the ground (See the options below)
Online Donations
Name _______________________________________________________________________
Make a donation online at www.mydonate.bt.com/ events/fallforhounds
Address: ____________________________________________________________________
Text Donations
______________________________________________ Postcode: ____________________
Simply text RGTD23 £10 (or any other amount) to 70070
I enclose a donation of £ ______________
Send this form with a cheque or postal order to: RGT Fall 4 Hounds, Park House, Park Terrace, Worcester Park, KT4 7JZ 8
Homer Magazine Autumn 2013
RGT Charity Shop The Warsop Retired Greyhound Trust charity shop near Mansfield has now raised over £85,000 for the Trust.
Cheers to our Volunteers Volunteers are the pulse of the RGT and we simply would not be able to operate without their generosity and support. We asked two dedicated volunteers why they devote their time to rehoming greyhounds.
Located on the main road in the pretty Nottinghamshire town of Warsop, the shop opened in November 2010 and is the only charity shop in Britain that supports the RGT. The shop has a fantastic range of donated books, DVDs, bric-abrac, jewellery and clothing for sale. The shop is open from 9am to 2pm Monday to Friday and from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. Donations of goods (excluding electrical items) are always welcome. For more information, please call 01623 846307.
Pets at Home Support Our branches have been receiving a lot of support from Pets at Home over the past six months. Below are just a few that have collected donations from their local stores.
“The joy of finding these wonderful greyhounds their forever homes says it all for me. It’s all for the love of the dogs that I volunteer as much time as I possibly can. Of all the things I do, my favourite is the one-to-one time spent with each dog.” Caroline Finnett Ayr branch “I adopted my first greyhound 12 years ago and became a volunteer at the same time, and have made some fantastic friends. But more than that is the joy of seeing all our “homed” greyhounds happy in their forever homes; loved and cherished, just as they deserve to be!” Jay Jensen East Riding branch Our branches are always looking for volunteers of all kinds with different skills to help find homes for greyhounds. Whether you can walk some of the dogs, help out around the kennels, take the dogs to shows and events, fundraise in your area, or even help promote the RGT and the fantastic pets that greyhounds make, please get in touch. To make the difference to thousands of greyhounds by volunteering, please contact your local branch by visiting: www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/Branch-Locations/
Fundraising at Tylers Green Middle School
North Yorkshire collected a £1000 donation from Fosse Island Pets at Home, their second in 12 months
Six fantastic young people have been busy raising funds for greyhounds at Tylers Green Middle School. As part of charity week, these thoughtful fundraisers held a bake sale and a raffle for a giant brownie which raised £61.84. It certainly sounds like a tasty way to raise money for Retired Greyhounds!
Oleander Pearl (Polly) Polly Stokes is a greyhound who collects loose change on the streets during her walks. (School kids can be so careless with coins!) She has managed to collect £8, which her Dad rounded up to £10 so that we can “help find another ex-racing lady a good home.” Thanks Polly, and please thank your Mum & Dad for us.
Collection Tin Donations We have had a lot of great support from many businesses, organisations and individuals that have been collecting funds for the RGT through our donation tins. In the past six months we’ve received donations from the Blue Apple Gallery, Budgens, Chisolm Bookmakers, StanJames, and many more. If you would like to help us raise funds by placing a donation box or tin in a local shop, please contact us on 020 8335 3016 or email greyhounds@retiredgreyhounds.co.uk. Sittingbourne RGT collected a donation of £665 from the Ashford Pets at Home branch
The Perry Barr branch received a cheque for £1464 from the Stratford-upon-Avon Pets at Home
Boxing for Hounds
RGT Raffle Results
Ben ‘Pumpkin’ Collins is not only a huge greyhound supporter, he is also an up and coming boxer! Ben proudly shows off the RGT logo on his boxing gear to help spread the word that greyhounds make great pets.
Thank you everyone who participated in the 2013 Raffle. We raised much needed funds to help the dogs in our care. To see the list of winners visit: www. retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/RGT-Raffle/
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
9
ROGUES’ GALLERY
10
your photos f o n io t c e ll A co reyhounds’ g g in r u t p a c onalities. unique pers
Homer Magazine Spring & Summer 2014
es. g your Rogu in r a h s r fo issions Thank you great subm y n a m o s d We ha em all. uld share th o c e w h is w and
photos at: Upload your .co.uk/ greyhounds d e ir t e .r w w w mit/ GallerySub at: he full gallery Check out t hounds.co.uk/ grey www.retired ry-albums/ e -g rogues all
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
11
VETERINARY CORNER
This page is sponsored by
Cutting the cost of veterinary care Join The Healthy Pet Club today and start saving! www.thehealthypetclub.co.uk
Frances Allen is a small animal veterinary surgeon working in Durham, with a particular interest in and considerable experience of working with greyhounds. She is also a Trustee of the Retired Greyhound Trust and Chairs its Veterinary Committee that develops and oversees the implementation of RGT veterinary policies. This column is for educational purposes. You should always contact your veterinary surgeon if you have any concerns about the health of your greyhound.
HOW DO I KEEP MY GREYHOUND FREE FROM PARASITES? Parasites can be both internal and external, both visible and invisible to the naked eye and some are not only harmful to our greyhounds' health and well-being but also our own. (Don't panic, the latter is a very rare occurrence). This article will cover the more common or concerning parasites. When considering a preventative health programme for our pet hounds, it is important to consider the lifestyle of
Make sure you keep your greyhound parasite-free
your pet and the area in which you live to be able to plan the most effective regime. Talk to your local vet practice to get advice on effective products that are most suitable for your greyhound. Roundworms are able to infect humans so routine worming four times a year is advised but this should be increased to monthly if your dog exercises on public playing fields and/or is in contact with young children. Some fleas carry tapeworms, some dogs are allergic to flea bites and fleas will
even nibble a human, so prevention is far easier than cure. There are many effective products to prevent a flea visit from becoming an infestation, including a monthly palatable tablet which is now available in combination with a wormer. Ticks are seasonal but the pattern has changed as seasons have altered. If you live in an inner city, ticks are less of a concern but anyone living in a rural area or who walks their dogs in fields or woods should consider tick prevention as they can carry disease organisms such as Lyme disease. Luckily in the UK we are not yet at risk of some of the more life-threatening diseases. Preventing attachment of the tick is vital in preventing infection.
your greyhound must be microchipped and vaccinated against Rabies at least three weeks before departure and wormed at least 120 hours before your return to the UK. Firstly, do ask yourself if you should really take your greyhound abroad - a hot climate may be fine for the healthy, short-coated greyhound but not for the obese dog with a heart condition. Also consider the effect of travel on your dog. Dependent on your destination, there may be no greater health risks than being in different parts of the UK, but warmer climates such as southern France and Spain do expose your
Lungworm is a newer UK emerging disease carried by slugs which can be rapidly fatal by causing lethargy, cough and clotting problems in the greyhound. This has now been diagnosed the length and breadth of the country. Monthly spot-on of an appropriate drug is effective at prevention. The website www.itsajungle.co.uk is useful for advice on parasite prevention in the UK and abroad.
WHAT ARE THE HEALTH RISKS OF TAKING MY PET ABROAD? Pet dogs can travel to and from Europe under the PETS scheme but there are only certain routes that you can use. It has become a quicker process to obtain a Pet Passport since 2012, but
Make sure you are prepared if taking your greyhound abroad
greyhound to the risk of infection of three more common diseases: the heartworm Dirolfilaira (carried by mosquitoes), Erlichia (ticks) and Leishmania (sand flies). The latter two can infect humans as well. Infection is often preventable by management and medication. Talk to your vet and plan in advance. For more info you can visit www.defra.gov.uk/ wildlife-pets/pets/travel/pets/
Cutting the cost of veterinary care. From just ÂŁ9.99* a month including vaccinations, flea and worming and lots more savings! Join The Healthy Pet Club TODAY and start saving! www.thehealthypetclub.co.uk *see website for full terms & conditions
GIVE A GREYHOUND A HOME These greyhound are looking for a good home and have been in our kennels for a considerable time. Please consider adopting one of these beauties and give them the happy home they have dreamed of.
MATT He’s shy but great with kids Pelaw Grange RGT Tel: 01228 560901
DES A handsome lad who’s a little shy Yarmouth RGT Tel: 08454 583797
ROCKET Can be a bit keen but is lovely Portsmouth RGT Tel: 01730 893255
LADY A pretty 9 year old girl Isle of Skye RGT Tel: 01470 511705
RONNIE A dog with a beautiful nature Nottingham RGT Tel: 01159 533344
SPOT THE DOG Kind & gentle, great with kids East Anglia RGT Tel: 01406 330459
NULA Pretty girl, needs a special home Shropshire & Borders RGT Tel: 01743 872395
RAZZ Happy chap that loves cuddles North Cornwall RGT Tel: 01288 361680
MYLES Great fun to play with Scottish Borders RGT Tel: 07967 057759
BUSTER Lovely nature, very happy South Lakes RGT 01539 552394
LORDY Handsome & likes running about Poole RGT Tel: 01747 854042
BRIAN Lad with a wonderful temperament Worksop RGT Tel: 01909 724901
FRANKIE A happy dog who loves people Herts/Beds RGT Tel: 01279 501899
ELLIEFAYE Shy & nervous but good with kids West Yorkshire RGT Tel: 01924 860271
IZZY Loving & great with children Oxford RGT Tel: 01865 374792
MICK Loving & used to home comforts Darlington RGT Tel: 01325 360197
We have hundreds of wonderful greyhounds in our kennels across Britain looking for a good home. To see more dogs available for adoption please visit:
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/adopt-a-greyhound/ www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
13
IN MEMORY...
Tigger Our beautiful boy, he was much loved...
Remembering those greyhounds that have meant so much to us...
Maggie
Ollie
Miss you Maggie Moo xx
I miss you more than words can say, I’ll think about you everyday.
Smokey To our big handsome boy, we miss you. Dave, Al, Megan, Jake, Molly & Barney.
Pridey
Love and miss you forever - Mum & Dad
Pippa You will never be forgotten xxxx
Pepper & Floss
The girls went to sleep 6 weeks apart. They are missed so much
Robson We miss you more than words can describe. We loved you, our black beauty.
Chico Beautiful girl that will not be forgotten.
Sean
Gone but not forgotten...
Molly
Corby
I will always love you and always miss you
His leaving us has left his Mummy and Daddy bereft and missing him so much.
14
Homer Magazine Autumn 2013
Lulu Our sweet, gentle girl... we miss you more than you will ever know.
Tigga
Sam
Gumpy
We miss him so much, thanks for the memories.
We miss you and love you with all our heart.
For all we did for him he gave us back ten fold.
Winston Starsky
His gentle soul is missed so much...
Dino He touched so many lives as a PAT dog and will be deeply missed.
My best mate that touched many peoples lives. Now you are a ‘Star’ in the ‘Sky’.
Polo (Mr P) A very special boy who will always be with us in our memories.
Oscar Will always love you, miss you everyday
Harry We miss him every day, as do his companions Jasper and Bruce.
Usher Mr. Dibbs Always a gentleman.
He was an amazing dog and will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.
Shelly She was very special indeed and is missed very badly There are so many greyhounds that have touched our lives, made us smile and loved us unconditionally. This page is a tribute to all these greyhounds that have left us...we wish we had the space to include more images.
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/rainbow-bridge-albums/
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
15
POETRY CORNER
Corby
His leaving us has left his Mummy and Daddy bereft and missing him so much. No stopping in the woods with Daddy to watch the squirrels No bringing presents of fir cones home to Mummy No mess on the carpet from biscuits and sweets No more food up the kitchen walls - oh, you were a messy boy! No nudging us to get attention No hairs on the carpet and furniture No greeting us when we come home Instead, it’s just Empty where your beds were Empty where your food bowls were Empty cupboard where your food was Empty, quiet house Empty, lonely hearts of your Mummy and Daddy Our beautiful big, gentle giant - you gave unconditional love and we are heartbroken. Thank you to everyone who submitted poetry. While we try our best to include a wide selection of poems, space limitations prevent us from including everything. Email your submissions to: homer@retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
2014 Dates for your Diary Greyhound Extravaganza 25 May
Great British Greyhound Walk 22 June
CLA Game Fair 18 - 20 July
Woofstock 26 - 27 July
Great Greyhound Gathering 20 September
Mr Dibbs (Frisby Frankie): 2000-2013 Howl, Howl, all Hounds, for Mister Dibbs is dead! With no more biscuits now, upstairs he’s led With halting steps to his eternal bed. Now that his life has run from A to Z With dauntless zeal and Dibby tread He’ll face his maker (and Mrs Dibbs, it’s said). Howl, Howl, all Hounds, for Mister Dibbs is dead, is dead, is dead, is dead...
Mia Mia- you were really a bit of a pickle and just loved your tummy tickle with legs in the air and midriff quite bare what a shameless hussy you were! You were everyone’s friend and right to the end Thump Thump went your tail in the chair It was so hard to say “farewell” on the day but we know you are happier now. No more pain, no more pills just rabbits and ‘squills’ to chase around heaven all day! -Sarah Leworthy
2015 Calendar Contest Do you have a greyhound model in the house? We need your best hound photos for our 2015 RGT Calendar. Not only is it a very important annual fundraiser, it is a fun way to show off your pet. All greyhounds that are featured will win a copy of the calendar. Collect your best greyhound photos and submit as many as you would like. Please include your name and address and the name(s) of the greyhound(s) pictured. Submissions are preferred in high
Discover Dogs
resolution digital format (like jpg or pdf ) and can be emailed to homer@retiredgreyhounds.co.uk. Please note we have a 6MB limit on attachments, so please send large images in separate emails. You can also post your photos to RGT Calendar Contest, 2nd Floor Park House, 1-4 Park Terrace, Worcester Park, Surrey KT4 7JZ. The full terms and conditions are available at retiredgreyhounds. co.uk/RGT-Calendar/ Entries close on 31 May 2014, so get snapping!
8 - 9 November
There are hundreds of shows and events co-ordinated by our branches every year. To find the events in your area or for more details on the above events visit: www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/Events/
16
Homer Magazine Spring & Summer 2014
SUPPORT THE RGT THROUGH EVERY PURCHASE
MERCHANDISE
GREYHOUND ACCESSORIES
LUXURIOUS COLLARS AND LEADS
D&H Top Quality Leather Collar & Lead sets Featuring a brown hide outer, lined with beautiful soft colourful leather and finished with bright chrome.
Hound Collar Available in Brown with Red, Blue or Pink Neck 31-36cm. 6cm at widest point - £45.00 Neck 36-41cm. 7cm at widest point - £50.00 House Collar - Available in Brown with Red, Blue or Pink Neck 32-39 cm/2.2 cm wide £30.00 Neck 40-50 cm/2.5 cm wide £40.00
Lead Available in Brown with Red, Blue or Pink 110 cm long x 15 mm wide £40.00
BRANDED SET -Leather in brown or red £26.00 collar & lead £16.00 lead only or £10.00 collar only
OVERHEAD HEARTS COLLAR Lined 1.5” Pink, orange, black or green £20.00
GREYHOUND WALKING HARNESS Reduces anxiety and unwelcome behavioural problems. Designed by Canine Consultant & Behaviourist, Sally Hopkins, these harnesses are covered in top quality fleece making the straps wide and comfortable for the greyhound. The two clips on the girth strap makes it easy to secure without moving the greyhound’s legs. MUZZLES - Red, purple, blue & black £6.00 each GROOMING GLOVE Double-sided brush Red or blue £6.00
Made in the UK. Machine washable. Harness, Size 5 - 53-77 cm girth size for small & medium greyhounds £25.00 - Available in Red or Black Harness, Size 6 - 61-89 cm girth size for large greyhounds £26.00 - Available in Red or Black
GREYHOUND COATS AND JACKETS To see images of all coats and jackets, visit www.retiredgreyhoundshop.co.uk WALK OUT JACKET Red, Purple, Navy or High Vis Yellow S, M, L, XL (please see size chart below) £26.00
Red
Purple
Black
LIGHT WEIGHT RAIN MACS Available in Red, Purple or Black S, M, L, XL (please see size chart below) £14.00
COAT FITTING GUIDE To measure your dog for one of our coats, measure in inches from the base of the neck to the tail as shown below: Please note that the coat will measure LARGER than the area measured, as designed to cover your dog’s rear.
DOUBLE FLEECE INDOOR JACKET Available in Red, Lilac, Navy or Black S, M, L, XL (please see size chart below) £18.00 THERMAL HIGH VIS JACKET S, M, L, XL (please see size chart below) £35.00
Small: 26” Medium: 28” Large: 30” Extra Large: “32
www.retiredgreyhoundshop.co.uk
MARTINGALE COLLAR Lined 2” Purple, Red, Green or Gold £22.00
MARTINGALE DOT COLLAR & LEAD 2”Unlined Purple, White, Red or Navy Collar - £20.00 Lead - £14.00 DOGGEE POO BAG HOLDER Holds several bags and fixes to leads for convenience. £4.50
17
RGT MERCHANDISE - ALL PROFITS ARE DONATED TO THE TRUST
STATIONARY AND BOOKS GREETING CARDS by Alison Lingley Gloss finished & supplied with white envelopes. Card size 121 mm x 171 mm.
PACK A - ‘C’mon, we’ve saved you a space in the middle!’ INSIDE GREETING: ‘Best Wishes’ £5.50, pack of 4 of this design
PACK B - ‘How awkward - meeting in the park in the same coat!’ INSIDE GREETING: ‘Best Wishes’ £5.50, pack of 4 of this design
Stylish Greyhound Stationary This colourful line of stationary is perfect for the greyhound-lover in your life.
Diary of a Dog - by Robert Powell The life and times of a retired greyhound. This is the hilarious dayto-day diary of Bandit, a four-year-old retired greyhound who was adopted by Bertie and taken home to live with lurcher, Willow. They have a whale of a time! Bandit, who thinks he’s very handsome, is particularly naughty and loves shredding toilet rolls and stealing pigs ears from the vet’s. All proceeds from this book go to greyhound charities. Paperback, 128 pgs - £12.99
BIRTHDAY CARDS (above) His and Her designs - please specify £2.50 each GIFT WRAP 2 sheets of wrap includes 2 gift tags as shown above £2.50 per pack A
B
A
C
NOTELETS Set of 12 (3 different designs per pack) £4.00
GREETING CARDS by Yasmin Sold individually Unique RGT handmade greeting card with diamante and sparkles. White textured high quality card. Left blank for your own message. A. Home Sweet Home!
Retired Greyhounds: A Guide to Care and Understanding by Carol Baby (paperback, 112 pgs) £12.99
B. Life is Good! C. You will always be my No. 1 £3.50 Each
18
KEEPSAKE PHOTO BOX 13.5cm x 11.5 cm; Resin box with photo compartment on front. £21.00
Homer Magazine Spring & Summer 2014
SUPPORT THE RGT THROUGH EVERY PURCHASE
GIFTS FOR YOU, FRIENDS AND FAMILY
CHILDREN’S TOYS
GREYHOUNDBOB T SHIRT
Unisex 100% Cotton Same design on front and back S - 36 inch chest ; M - 40 inch chest L - 42 inch chest ; XL - 44 inch chest
£9.00
HOMER TOY
REGGIE TOY
£14.00
£15.00
15” Tall, 15” toes to tail
13” Front to back paws, 6” Tall
GREYHOUNDBOB MAGNET Acrylic 95mm x 65mm
SMALL DOGS IN JACKETS Blue, Red or Green jacket Please specify colour
£3.50
7 cm wide 23 cm long
KEEP CALM AND HUG A HOUND TEA TOWEL
£9.00 each £24.00 for set of 3
Available by popular demand
THERMO MUG Insulated travel mug with grip £5.50
RGT MUG Earthenware £5.00
Order Form QUANTITY
100% Cotton approx 48cm x 75cm.
CARD WALLET - £1.50 CHARM - £1.00 KEYRING - £3.50 TROLLEY TOKEN - £1.00
£5.00
Orders can also be made via the website: www.retiredgreyhoundshop.co.uk ITEM
COLOUR/DESIGN
Greetings Cards
SIZE
PRICE
Personal Details
TOTAL: £
Name: ___________________________________________________________
I enclose a donation of: £
Address: _________________________________________________________
Postage (Mainland Britain only): £3.95
_________________________________________________________________ Postcode: ______________ Daytime Tel: _______________________________ Email: ________________________________________________
Payment Methods Cheque, Postal Orders, Mastercard or Visa. Please make cheques payable to: Retired Greyhound Events Ltd. Minimum order for credit card payments is £6.
Name: (as on card) __________________________________________ Card no: Expiry date:
TOTAL COST
Valid from:
Issue No:
Security Code: Signature: ____________________________________________ The shop is operated by Retired Greyhound Events Ltd, the wholly owned, VAT-registered trading subsidiary (number 3825899) of the Retired Greyhound Trust, charity numbers 269668 & SC044047. All profits from Retired Greyhound Events Ltd are donated to the Trust so by shopping here you are supporting our vital work.
GRAND TOTAL: £ Please contact +44 20 8335 3016 for postal charges beyond mainland Britain Enables us to reclaim 25p from HMRC for each pound donated.
Please treat as Gift Aid donations all qualifying gifts of money made: (tick all boxes you wish to apply) Today In the past 4 years In the future Signature _____________________________________ Date ___________________ I confirm I have paid or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax for each tax year (6 April to 5 April) that is at least equal to the amount of tax that all the charities or Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) that I donate to will reclaim on my gifts for that tax year. I understand that other taxes such as VAT and Council Tax do not qualify. I understand the charity will reclaim 28p of tax on every £1 that I gave up to 5 April 2008 and will reclaim 25p of tax on every £1 that I give on or after 6 April 2008.
Order Methods
(Please allow up to 28 days for delivery)
Post:
Retired Greyhound Events 2nd Floor, Park House,1-4 Park Terrace, Worcester Park, Surrey, KT4 7JZ
Telephone:
020 8335 3016
Website: www.retiredgreyhoundshop.co.uk
NOW AVAILABLE...
pet greyhound Complete nutrition for your greyhound
Rich in chicken for fussy eaters 19% Protein Enhanced key vitamins, amino acids & trace nutrient levels Green lipped mussel, Omega 3 fatty acids & mobility herbs Functional fibres & prebiotics Natural, wholesome ingredients No added artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
To order call 01832 737300 or visit dodsonandhorrellpetfood.co.uk
Get two 15 kg bags delivered to your door* for just ÂŁ40
MONEY BACK GUARANTEE! If your greyhound does not like the feed, call Dodson & Horrell to receive a refund on your 1st purchase. *UK mainland only. For other postage rates, please call Dodson & Horrell.