Homer Magazine Issue 43

Homer

Autumn & Winter 2015 - Issue 43

The Magazine of the Retired Greyhound Trust

Black Hounds are Beautiful Be Our Friend

Bomber by Holly Denton

New Chairman for the RGT

New Microchipping Laws are Coming... Don’t Be Caught Sleeping!

CONTENTS

Dear Friends, Welcome to the Autumn & Winter 2015 edition of Homer magazine.

News..................................................3 Adoption Appeal.............................8 Greyhound Gallery........................10 Veterinary Corner..........................12 Fun Zone.........................................13 In Memory.......................................14 RGT Merchandise..........................16

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 has not only been a big year for the Trust, as we turned forty, but there have been events going on all year to celebrate our work and greyhounds as a breed.

We started the year with the Ruby Ball (see page 4), then we took over Manderston in Scotland, with the great support from Lord Palmer, for the first ever Scottish Greyhound Gathering.

There are many topics covered in this issue of Homer.

The first is the induction of a new ‘Friendship Programme’, which you can read more about on page 3. We urge you to support this programme. We also have a very important update on microchipping on page 5. Next year microchip laws change and it will potentially have an impact on all dog owners. I cannot stress enough that all greyhound owners will need to verify that they are the legal guardians of their dogs with the microchip database or chip provider.

Charity Numbers: 269668 & SC044047

As it is the Autumn issue we have the autumn raffle (see below), 2016 RGT Calendars and the 2015 RGT Christmas Cards. We have put a lot of effort into developing unique new designs so that there is the perfect card for everyone. We hope you like them!

Editor: Samuel Zelmer-Jackson

As always, I hope you enjoy this issue and that you enjoy the rest of 2015.

Samuel Zelmer-Jackson, Editor

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.

The RGT Autumn Raffle

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

The Autumn brings one of the Trust’s biggest fundraisers of the year, the RGT Raffle. We run the raffle for two reasons. Firstly, it is a fun way for supporters to help us make a difference and win great prizes.

Secondly, the funds raised ensure that we have the ability to care for our greyhounds over Christmas.

If you live in an eligible area, you will find two books of raffle tickets enclosed in the magazine. We hope that either you will buy them yourself or sell them to friends and family, but please remember they can only be sold to and by people aged 16 years and older. The details of where to send the tickets and the deadline are on the booklets. Good luck!

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 3,700 homes for greyhounds every year. To locate and contact your nearest branch, visit: retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/BranchLocations/ or call 020 8335 3016.

First Prize: £1,000 Second Prize: £750 Third Prize: £500 Fourth Prize: £250 20 people will win a £25 M&S Voucher Due to Gambling Commission restrictions, raffle tickets can only be distributed on mainland Britain. For full details visit retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/RGT-raffle.

If for any reason you did not receive raffle tickets or would like additional books, please call 020 8335 3016.

Retired Greyhound AutumAu ffl5e 2015 n Raffl Trust e Ra 201 tumn Retired yhound Gre I enclose £_____ n. ______ t for raffle tickets. I also include £___________ __ as a donatio Trus___ de £___________ Charity numbers 269668 & SC044047

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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.

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These great prizes will be won...maybe by you!

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Can you ‘Gift you can help for how Tickets may not be sold by s on signature reverse to find out how you can out help or to any person under the reverse to find for free.

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__________ ________________ __________________ ____ ____________ Postcode: __________ ________________ __________________ ____ ____________ Postcode: & Spencer vouchers rks

Ma 20 x £25 ________________________ ______ 20 x £25 Marks & Spencer vouch ers

Homer Magazine Autumn & Winter 2015

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Surname: ______ ________________ __________________ ________ ____________ Surname: Address: ______ ____ ____ ________ __________________ ________ ____________ Address: __________ ________________ __________________ __________ ______ First name:

WILL YOU BE OUR FRIEND?

So, we have decided to ask the supporters who love Homer magazine to help us keep producing it through our Friendship Programme. The Friendship Scheme is the best way to stay up-to-date with the Trust’s work and Homer will become our exclusive friends publication.

By joining the programme you will continue to get Homer magazine twice a year plus you will get extra benefits and the great feeling of knowing that you are helping us care for approximately 5,000 hounds a year.

If you don’t want to become a friend you won’t get Homer however we will send you a short newsletter.

Other ways to get Homer: •

If you already sponsor an RGT greyhound you will still receive Homer

•

If were previously a life member, you will automatically be transferred to the ‘Friend for Life’ level and receive Homer

Thank you to artist Niki Firmin who has donated the artwork for the greyhound art print. We will have exciting news to announce in 2016 in collaboration with Niki.

Retired Greyhound Trust

Friend for Life John Jones

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For just £12 a year (£1 a month) you will get Homer Magazine, an ID Card and a collectable Retired Greyhound Trust badge*.

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We love writing and sharing Homer with you as well, but with the annual increases in postage, paper and printing, Homer magazine becomes more expensive to send to 60,000 homes twice a year.

‘Friend’

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We all love Homer Magazine and we know that many of you get excited when a new issue arrives through your door.

Charity numbers 269668 & SC044047

‘Best Friend’

If you become a Best Friend for £36 a year (£3 a month) you will receive Homer Magazine, ID Card, exclusive lapel pin, custom post labels, a set of stylish post cards and a Christmas card*.

Retired Greyhound Trust

Friend for Life John Jones

This series of John JonesChristmas Cards features hounds kennels, looking 8 Your Road Court for a good home.avaliable in our Tom is a handsome Townsville lad who is calm side and is quite but lovable. intelligent. He AA1 He has a cheeky can will live quite be left1AA alone for happily on his for him he will reasonable periods. If own and you have the make a charming right home addition to your household.

If you can give John Jones a dog like Tom a good www.retiredgr home 8 Your Road eyhounds.co.u visit Court k/adopt-a-greplease yhound/

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Townsville The Retired Greyhound for greyhounds AA1 1AA Trust has found more than since will help more 1975. Funds raised through 70,000 loving homes hounds find happy homes the sale of these cards in the coming year.

John Jones 8 Your Road Court Townsville AA1 1AA

Photos by Madaboutgreys

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10/07/2015

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Samuel Zelmer-Jackson 8 Halcroft Court 1A Lavendar Road Sutton, Surrey SM1 3RJ

‘Friend for Life’

If you are a long-standing greyhound supporter and would like to do even more, why not become a Friend for Life?

For a one-off donation of £500 you will receive all future issues of Homer plus the following treasures: a ‘Friend For Life’ ID card, ultra limited greyhound art print, exclusive lapel pin, custom post labels, set of post cards, an annual Christmas card from our greyhounds and offers on exclusive merchandise*.

Samuel Zelmer-Jackson 8 Halcroft Court 1A Lavendar Road Sutton, Surrey SM1 3RJ

Samuel Zelmer-Jackson 8 Halcroft Court 1A Lavendar Road Sutton, Surrey SM1 3RJ

Samuel Zelmer-Jackson 8 Halcroft Court 1A Lavendar Road Sutton, Surrey SM1 3RJ

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Have Confidence There have been many stories in the media over the past few months discussing how some charities buy and sell supporter information.

We promise that the Retired Greyhound Trust does not buy or sell supporter data. Just like you, we would not want our details shared without our permission.

If you are receiving communication from the RGT it is because you have either adopted a greyhound (or two or three), made a donation, purchased from our shop or submitted a request for more information.

If you receive mailings from us and you ever change your mind and do not want to hear from us, just let us know.

We do not buy or sell individuals’ details Give with Confidence: As a member of the Fundraising Standards Board (FRSB), the Retired Greyhound Trust has made a public promise to adhere to best practice, honesty, transparency, clarity and accountability in all fundraising activity, enabling you to give with confidence.

*Designs of the Christmas card, postcards, ID Card, Art Print and address labels may vary and artwork is subject to change.

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

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NEWS The Ruby Ball

On Sunday 7th June the Retired Greyhound Trust celebrated its 40th birthday at a Ruby Anniversary Ball held at London’s Grand Conaught Rooms.

More than 350 RGT volunteers, supporters and industry patrons attended the black tie event, which was hosted by Gyles Brandreth.

The evening started off with a joint presentation from Dr Andrew Higgins, RGT Chairman, and Lisa Morris-Tomkins, RGT Chief Executive. They discussed the formation of the Trust and gave tribute to the founders of the RGT, including four women who still work closely with the charity today: Johanna Beumer MBE, Jenny Bunting, Liz Redpath and Ann Shannon.

Lisa Morris-Tomkins said, “The event raised £100,000, making it a great success and all involved should be very proud.”

“We would also like to thank our fantastic group of Patrons who made this event possible.”

Patrons of the RGT’s Ruby Ball include: BAGS, Betfair, Betfred, Ladbrokes, SIS, William Hill, Chudleys, GBGB, Petplan, Sidaz Racing, Towcester Racecourse, Coral, CVS Healthy Pet Club, Jim Daly , DM Specialists, GRA, Kinsley Greyhound Stadium, Dave Lawrence, Loddon, The Morton Family, Noramac Racing Club, Nottingham Greyhound Stadium, Owlerton Stadium, RPGreyhounds and Victoria Concordia Ltd. Thank you to the following for donations: Ambassadors Theatre London, Brett Vale Golf Course, Cheltenham Racecourse, Demontfort Delights, Hove Greyhound Stadium, Shelbourne Park, Kempton Park, Joe Scanlon, John McDonald, Lawrence Blunt, Newbury Racecourse, Niki Firmin, Paddy Power, Romford Greyhound Stadium, Russell Square Hotel, Sittingbourne Greyhound Stadium, Steve Morison, Steve Nash, Tony McCoy and Universal Coach Hire. prog

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RGT has homed over 70,000 greyhounds and each donation is received with heartfelt thanks, allowing us to strive towards a day when no ex-racing greyhound is without a loving home.

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Homer Magazine Autumn & Winter 2015

Farewell and Thanks Having served for seven years as the RGT Chairman, Dr Andrew Higgins is stepping down from this important role with the charity.

Andrew said, "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the RGT. I have been bowled over by the passion and enthusiasm of the charity's volunteers.

The RGT has grown from strength to strength thanks to the dedication and determination of the staff, the Trustees and our fantastic supporters.”

“It has been a pleasure to serve as Chairman."

Welcome The RGT has appointed Professor Steven Dean MRCVS as Chairman. Professor Dean brings over 40 years’ experience within the animal welfare sector and was Chief Executive of the UK government’s Veterinary Medicines Directorate from 2002 until 2011. From 2011 until 2015 he was Chairman of the Kennel Club.

Steven said, “I very much look forward to being a Champion for this magnificent breed and, in particular, devoting time to improving upon the past success of the RGT.”

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

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Don’t Get Caught Out With New Microchip Laws There are some big changes coming as part of The Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2015, and we want to make sure you know how it will impact your family.

As of 1st April 2016 a new law will be in effect that requires all dogs to be microchipped and it also states that the microchip must be registered to the keeper of that dog.

Luckily, most of the greyhounds that have come from the RGT will be chipped already, but there is a chance that the dog might be registered to the RGT…not to you as the owner. We want you to be prepared with this law change, that is why we are asking you to do the following:

microchip is registered to. Most of the RGT greyhounds will have Petlog chips, and you can check the ownership by asking your vet. If it is registered to you, and the details are accurate, you are fine. If it is registered to the RGT, we can help.

Step 3. If the chip is still registered to the RGT, please get in touch with your local branch, who will be able to help. If you don’t live near a branch

email welfare@retiredgreyhounds. co.uk or call 020 8335 3016 and speak to the welfare team.

If you follow these three simple steps you should be compliant when the new law takes place in April 2016.

Thank you for your help to ensure the greyhounds across the UK are abiding by the upcoming microchip laws.

TO DO BEFORE 1st APRIL 2016 Make sure my greyhound is microchipped.

Step 1. Check to see if your greyhound is microchipped. You can do this by looking through your adoption paperwork of veterinary records. If for some reason your hound slipped by without a microchip, take them to the vet promptly to get chipped. It is a painless process for the greyhound.

Check to see if the microchip is registered to me.

If not, change the details with the

microchip database

to my address.

Step 2. Check to see who the

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Homer Magazine Autumn & Winter 2015

Cheers to our Volunteers Volunteers are the heart 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 homing greyhounds.

“The Kings Lynn branch has gone from strength to strength and we have an amazing & dedicated group of loyal volunteers. We all get so much pleasure from working with these dogs. It’s rewarding to help the charity continue homing these wonderful hounds.”

Clare & Debbie Kings Lynn branch “What an awesome journey a homer takes, emerging from a training kennel to become part of a loving human family! As a volunteer I care for those gorgeous greys promoting them as fabulous pets and helping adopters with their own homer on its amazing journey.”

Julian Ingleby Rugby & Coventry branch

Percy, Polly and Pickles Percy the greyhound, and his whippet friends Polly and Pickles, helped save the life of their owner, Carolyn, who at the time was recovering from radiotherapy on a benign brain tumour.

Unfortunately inflammation in the brain tissue caused her to have a sudden seizure. She fell to the floor on a path in the village, thankfully landing with her head on the grass.

The dog leads were in her hands but the dogs made no attempt to leave her and because Percy is a big dog, he was spotted by a passing car. They found that Carolyn was having a seizure and called an ambulance.

If Percy, Polly and Pickles had not stayed with Carolyn, she may not have received prompt medical help.

Bath Half Marathon Are you an athlete or aspiring athlete who would like to raise money for the Retired Greyhound Trust?

We have 5 spaces in the 2016 Bath Half Marathon, and are looking for individuals to take part and raise money for our hounds.

Individuals will have a minimum fundraising target of £500 and will be drawn by ballot. Please email fundraising@retiredgreyhounds.co.uk to enter the draw.

Petplan have given over £650,000 to RGT since our partnership began in 2003!

Woofstock ROCKS!!!

Every year the Woofstock festival raises funds for the RGT, and this year they raised a massive £2525.00 taking their total raised over £12,000! That is totally Pawsome!

Our thanks go to everyone at the Angel Inn Yarwell, one of the dog friendliest pubs around. To find out more about the Angel Inn, visit their website at: www. angelinnyarwell.com.

Every time an RGT supporter or adopter takes out a full policy with Petplan through RGT, Petplan gives 10% of the premium back to RGT and an additional 10% every year the policy is renewed without a break in cover.

To find out more about our partnership visit: www.petplan.co.uk/rgt

Terms, conditions and excesses apply and may be varied on renewal. Retired Greyhound Trust (Registered charity no: 269668 (England and Wales), SC044047 (Scotland)) is an Appointed Representative of Pet Plan Limited but is not part of the Allianz (UK) Group.

Petplan is a trading name of Pet Plan Limited and Allianz Insurance.

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

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GIVE A DOG A HOME This summer the Retired Greyhound Trust launched their “Give a dog a home campaign” to address the escalating numbers of black greyhounds currently waiting to find a permanent home.

The Retired Greyhound Trust helps to find homes for almost 4,000 hounds per year and is able to keep up to 1000 retired greyhounds in kennels, but with limited space and more dogs always waiting in the wings, the charity issued a plea to people to come forward and adopt black greyhounds to ease the increasing pressure being placed on kennels and volunteers.

Spearheading the charity’s campaign to find more loving homes for the animals is 71 year old Johanna Beumer who has personally found homes for over 5,500 in her 50 years working with the dogs.

Johanna, who also has an MBE for her work with retired greyhounds, says, “At the moment, I care for 150 dogs

in the Retired Greyhound Trust per year at my kennels in Waltham Abbey, 120 of which are black. We find that because there are so many black dogs, light coloured or patterned dogs tend to be offered a home first, as people remember them because they’re a bit different. As a result, every year the Retired Greyhound Trust cares for thousands of black dogs, particularly males who have been overlooked and are in need of a home. We urgently need people across the whole country to adopt black greyhounds as they really are a wonderful, loving breed and urgently need homes.”

With over 8,000 racing greyhounds retiring each year, the number of dogs in kennels waiting to find a new home is an urgent problem.

Johanna, one of the founding members of the charity, continues “I’ve been involved with greyhounds since I was just 21, and it’s heart-breaking to see so many of these lovely animals waiting for a home. Greyhounds

make fantastic pets - they’re actually very lazy dogs and love nothing more than a quiet night in with lots of fuss!

Despite their racing pedigree, at heart they are really dopey couch potatoes, who are happy with two twenty minute walks a day.”

Lisa Morris-Tomkins, Chief Executive of the Retired Greyhound Trust says, “As a charity, we are in an extremely difficult position, as the number of black dogs in need of homes is increasing, but the number of people coming forward to offer these lovely animals homes has steadily declined over the last few years. We would urge anyone looking to give a dog a home to consider homing an ex-racing greyhound in need of adoption, as the number of animals in our care is in danger of reaching crisis levels. Black greyhounds are truly beautiful animals and make wonderful, loving pets but we need people to visit their local Retired Greyhound Trust kennels and give these amazing animals a real home.”

“We urgently need people across the whole country to adopt black greyhounds as they really are a wonderful, loving breed and urgently need homes.”

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Homer Magazine Autumn & Winter 2015

MOZART

West Yorkshire RGT - Tel: 01484 865280

GRACE

Honiton RGT - Tel: 01404 861160

NOSEY

Perry Barr RGT - Tel: 01217 827702

RONNIE

Nottingham RGT - Tel: 01159 533344

GRACIE

Yarmouth RGT - Tel: 08454 583797

MONTY

Edinburgh RGT - Tel: 01314 760069

JAZZY

North Yorkshire RGT - Tel: 01609 761014

GROMIT

Spalding RGT - Tel: 07843 655003

HARRY

Lancashire RGT - Tel: 07970 312183

We have hundreds of wonderful greyhounds in our kennels looking for a good home. To see more dogs available for adoption contact your local branch or visit:

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/adopt-a-greyhound/ www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

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GREYHOUND GALLERY

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Homer Magazine Autumn & Winter 2015

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www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

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VETERINARY CORNER DO I REALLY NEED TO VACCINATE MY DOG? Veterinarians in the UK recommend regular vaccinations for all dogs.

Some of these vaccinations are given annually and some every three years.

Your vet should always discuss which vaccinations are necessary for your dog and how often they are given.

Which diseases are we vaccinating against? Are they really that serious?

The short answer is, yes! The ‘core’ vaccinations in the UK protect against: 1. Canine Parvovirus - A viral infection which causes severe, bloody diarrhoea.

This infection is very often fatal in younger or immune-compromised individuals (certain breeds, dogs already suffering from specific health concerns or those receiving certain medications).

2. Infectious Canine Hepatitis (canine adenovirus) - A viral infection which causes liver failure.

This page is sponsored by

Cutting the cost of veterinary care Join The Healthy Pet Club today and start saving! www.thehealthypetclub.co.uk

4. Leptospirosis - A bacterial infection that can cause kidney and/or liver failure and can be fatal. This condition can also affect humans. The disease is carried within the rodent wildlife population and is especially found in/ around rivers, canals, ponds and lakes.

More information about leptospirosis in humans can be found on the NHS website: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ Leptospirosis/Pages/Introduction.aspx

control).

Dogs can also be vaccinated against kennel cough- an infection caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria.

Contrary to its name, the condition can be caught by any dog (not just those who visit boarding kennels). It is highly contagious and can be spread via aerosol (droplet) infection as well as lingering for up to 5 days in the environment (eg in shared water bowls outside shops and pubs).

An alternative to vaccinating is to have a ‘titre test’ carried out. This would involve your vet taking a blood sample from your dog (usually from the neck or leg vein) and sending it away to a laboratory for analysis. The results will show whether or not your dog still has sufficient immunity or requires further vaccinations. This can be quite costly but is often a good alternative for some dogs (eg those suffering from specific health concerns, or dogs who have reacted ‘badly’ to vaccinations in the past).

Once infected, dogs carry the infection for several weeks (in some cases months) and remain a source of infection for some while, even after they have stopped coughing.

Vaccination against kennel cough involves an initial dose followed by yearly boosters. The preparation is given via drops up the nose.

3. Canine distemper virus - A viral infection which can cause a variety of signs such as fever, pneumonia, vomiting, diarrhoea and reduced vision/ eye pain. Some individuals will survive the initial infection only for the virus to spread into the brain leading to seizures (fits), difficulty walking and even paralysis.

Every year, when your dog is vaccinated, they will receive a full clinical examination from the vet to check that they are fit and well. This should include a check of your dogs eyes, ears and mouth, their abdomen and chest. This is a really great opportunity for a chat about any concerns you may have about your dogs health and discuss other preventative health matters (eg diet and parasite

Most veterinary practices offer a scheme to cover the cost of routine treatments, such as vaccinations. The ‘core’ vaccinations as well as the kennel cough vaccination are included under the scheme for Healthy Pet Club (HPC) members.

I’m still not sure about vaccinating, what else can I do?

Further information on vaccinations for dogs may be found here on The National Office for Animal Health (NOAH) website: http://www.noah.co.uk/issues/ briefingdoc/12-dogva.htm

www.thehealthypetclub.co.uk

Win a year’s free Healthy Pet Club Membership!

For your chance to win a year’s free Healthy Pet Club membership, all you have to do is email us at: HPC.Competitions@cvsvets.com with a picture of your pet and your home address! That’s it!

Cutting the cost of veterinary care. From just £9.99* a month including vaccinations, flea and worming and lots more savings! Join The Healthy Pet Club TODAY and start saving! www.thehealthypetclub.co.uk

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*see website for full terms & conditions

Homer Magazine Autumn & Winter 2015

Name:

FUN ZONE CROSS WORD CLUES ACROSS 3. One of the countries in Europe that the RGT homes hounds to.

4. Homer magazine was originally called ______.

6. Famous author and hound owner.

9. What colour greyhounds have been the focus of a new campaign?

11. Name of RGT’s fundraising skydive in 2014.

12. Name of the RGT mascot.

13. How many years has the RGT been operating?

CROSS WORD CLUES DOWN 1. A condition that some hounds develop in their toe pads.

Name of RGT’s fundraising skydive in 2014.

2. RGT’s largest annual show is the Great Greyhound ______.

5. This famous face hosted the RGT’s Ruby Anniversary Ball.

7. First name of the RGT’s CEO. 8. Annual music festival that raises funds for the RGT. 10. Large dog show held in March.

Complete the crossword below 1

Cross Word Puzzle

2 3

4 5 6 7

8 9

10

11

12

13

Created on TheTeachersCorner.net Crossword Maker

Across

Down

Maze

3. france Greyhound Wisdom 4. scene

“Is that rain? I think I’ll stay in

1. corns 2. gathering 5. gyles 7. lisa 8. woof 10. crufts

6. jilly 9. black 11. fallfouhounds bed12.instead.” homer 13. 40

“I’m not sure why you don’t move my food bowl closer to my bed to save us both time.”

“Oooh! What is that? Oh, just a leaf falling. Never mind. Oooh! What was that?”

“Every day should be Saturday.”

“Why don’t we trade meals tonight...you’ll love the dog biscuits and your steak looks mighty tasty.”

“What do you mean this is your sofa?”

Greyhoundbob by Paula Trower

“Must you make so much noise? Some of us are trying to get our beauty sleep!“ “Nap time is my favourite time!”

“Leave a plate of food out for a midnight snack?”

“You are taking me to the greyhound walk this weekend, right? Everyone will be there!”

“I think I’ll sleep on it, but wake me for dinner!”

These pieces of greyhound wisdom were shared on our Facebook page. Every month we have fun, interactive contests with dog owners like you. Want to get involved in the conversation?

Join us at facebook.com/rgtrust

Greyhoundbob merchandise is available on page 21 or from www.greyhoundbob.com. A donation is made to the RGT from your purchases. © Greyhoundbob 2015 Crossword answers: 1. Fall For Hounds 2. Lisa 3. Gathering 4. Black 5. Jilly Cooper 6. Forty 7. Homer 8. Woofstock 9. France 10. Crufts 11. Scene 12.

Corns 13. Gyles Brandreth

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

13

IN MEMORY...

Caesar The Graceful one...

Remembering those greyhounds that have meant so much to us...

Holly

Lily & Daisy

Love you always. xxx

Sadly no longer with us.

Freddy Off to find the big sofa in the sky

Basil

Lulu

11 fabulous years together

Sweet, loving and very special.

Millie We loved you so much...

Jasper & Harry Beautiful boys now together again.

Chuffy

We will miss you terribly.

April Our old darling we loved so much...

Winnie

We miss you...

Indi You helped as Queen Foster Mum to 350 hounds. We’ll miss you.

Connie Only with us a short time but so sweet.

14

Homer Magazine Autumn & Winter 2015

Queenie

Mo

Milly

Thank you for those wonderful years...

We’ll never forget your amazing spirit. x

Or gorgeous girl. Night night.

Woody & Rosa We miss you both lots.

Star Gwenan

We miss you so much. xxx

Our beautiful brindle girl.

Rio

Lucy

We miss you hound!

Love you forever and always.

Ruby Run wild, run free.

Kirsty Goodnight, sweet dreams...

Eileen We’ll see you in our dreams.

Tee Tee Always remembered...

Hugh The beach will never be the same...

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 all of them, but they are all in our hearts.

If you want to remember a special hound that touched your life, email the picture to photos@retiredgreyhounds.co.uk.

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

15

CHRISTMAS ITEMS

This series of Christmas Cards features hounds avaliable in our kennels, looking for a good home.

This series of Christmas Cards features hounds avaliable in our kennels, looking for a good home.

Our gorgeous hound King is an absolute stunner! He’s such a large and graceful dog, and really stands out from the crowd with his beautiful pale fawn coat. He’s got the most gorgeous kind brown eyes, and will certainly have a lot of admirers.

This series of Christmas Cards features hounds avaliable in our kennels, looking for a good home.

If you can give a dog like Mousie a good home please visit www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/adopt-a-greyhound/

Sold in aid of

Charity numbers 269668 & SC044047

Sold in aid of

Charity numbers 269668 & SC044047

Sold in aid of

Liz Coleman of Madaboutgreys Photography is an award-winning Surrey dog photographer, specialising in sighthound and greyhound photography.

Charity numbers 269668 & SC044047

691RGT 210X148 RGT.indd 1-2

If you can give a dog like Tom a good home please visit www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/adopt-a-greyhound/

121 x 171 mm - £4.00

The Retired Greyhound Trust has found more than 70,000 loving homes for greyhounds since 1975. Funds raised through the sale of these cards will help more hounds find happy homes in the coming year.

The Retired Greyhound Trust has found more than 70,000 loving homes for greyhounds since 1975. Funds raised through the sale of these cards will help more hounds find happy homes in the coming year.

Charity numbers 269668 & SC044047

Photos by Madaboutgreys www.madaboutgreys.com Thank you to the Brands Hatch RGT volunteers for sharing Peaches and her story.

The Retired Greyhound Trust has found more than 70,000 loving homes for greyhounds since 1975. Funds raised through the sale of these cards will help more hounds find happy homes in the coming year.

Photos by Madaboutgreys www.madaboutgreys.com Thank you to the Brands Hatch RGT volunteers for sharing King and his story.

The Retired Greyhound Trust has found more than 70,000 loving homes for greyhounds since 1975. Funds raised through the sale of these cards will help more hounds find happy homes in the coming year.

The Retired Greyhound Trust has found more than 70,000 loving homes for greyhounds since 1975. Funds raised through the sale of these cards will help more hounds find happy homes in the coming year.

This series of Christmas Cards features hounds avaliable in our kennels, looking for a good home.

Tom is a handsome lad who is calm but lovable. He has a cheeky side and is quite intelligent. He will live quite happily on his own and can be left alone for reasonable periods. If you have the right home for him he will make a charming addition to your household.

Sold in aid of

If you can give a dog like King a good home please visit www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/adopt-a-greyhound/

Dear little Mousie is a real sweetie, with big brown eyes and lovely bright white bib against her beautiful blue coat. She is a real joy to be around as always looking for fun and really enjoys life.

Logan’s First Christmas Painting by Helen Jones

Greeting inside: With Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year

If you can give a dog like Peaches a good home please visit www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/adopt-a-greyhound/

Printed in the UK Tel: 01934 519555 691RGT

CHRISTMAS CARDS PHOTOGRAPHIC PACK 12 cards, 3 each of 4 designs

Our lovely little Peaches is such a cutie, but quite shy. We know that she will come on leaps and bounds once with her forever family, and will really blossom with a little time and patience.

Printed in the UK Tel: 01934 519555 695RGT

Charity numbers 269668 & SC044047 695RGT 121x171 RGT.indd 1-2

As Liz says “I love working with all kinds of dogs, but this is "my breed" now, and always will be. I love photographing those legendary sighthound eyes, the elegant shapes they make with their bodies, and capturing them at full stretch in action.”

Photos by Madaboutgreys www.madaboutgreys.com Thank you to the Brands Hatch RGT volunteers for sharing Mousie and her story.

10/07/2015 15:16

Printed in the UK Tel: 01934 519555 693RGT

693RGT 121x171 RGT.indd 1-2

10/07/2015 15:16

Printed in the UK Tel: 01934 519555 694RGT

Sold in aid of 10/07/2015 15:16

690RGT 210X148 RGT.indd 1-2

696RGT 121x171 RGT.indd 1-2

10/07/2015 15:16

You’d Better Watch Out Painting by Helen Jones

694RGT 121x171 RGT.indd 1-2

Printed in the UK Tel: 01934 519555 696RGT

Printed in the UK Tel: 01934 519555 690RGT

Photos by Madaboutgreys www.madaboutgreys.com Thank you to the Brands Hatch RGT volunteers for sharing Tom and his story.

You can see more of Liz’s work at www.madaboutgreys.com The Retired Greyhound Trust has found more than 70,000 loving homes for greyhounds since 1975. Funds raised through the sale of these cards will help more hounds find happy homes in the coming year.

Sold in aid of

Charity numbers 269668 & SC044047 Charity numbers 269668 & SC044047 23/07/2015 15:26

The Retired Greyhound Trust has found more than 70,000 loving homes for greyhounds since 1975. Funds raised through the sale of these cards will help more hounds find happy homes in the coming year.

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Christmas Kisses Painting by Helen Jones

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22/07/2015 09:22

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Tel: 0193 4 519555 699RGT

CHRISTMAS CARDS HO HO HOMER PACK 12 cards, 4 of 3 designs Greeting inside: With Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year 125 x 125 mm - £4.00 699RGT

125x125

RGT.indd

1-2

10/07/20

15 11:2 0

23/07/2015 15:26

CHRISTMAS CARDS LUXURY PAINTED PACK 12 cards, 4 each of 3 designs Greeting inside: With Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year 210 x 148 mm - £4.75

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This year’s Xmas cards include paintings by Derbyshire artist and greyhound owner Helen Jones. “I’m passionate about greyhounds- I think everyone should have one!

I’ve supported my local branch of the RGT for years so I was thrilled to be asked to paint this year’s cards. And I made sure my dog Logan featured in one of them!”

Helen can be contacted through her website www.visionfinearts.co.uk or helen@girliebiker.co.uk.

2016 RGT CALENDAR

Retired Greyhound Trust 2016 Calendar All proceeds from this calendar will help the Retired Greyhound Trust find loving homes for greyhounds

Retired Greyhound Trust Charity Numbers 269668 & SC044047

16

2016 GREYHOUND CALENDAR Annual fundraising calendar featuring The idea for Doggy Boho evolved from my love of sight hounds. First, a lurcher called Pecan and then a greyhound named Charlie form the Shrewsbury branch of the RGT. Being of an artist

Homer Magazine Autumn & Winter 2015

GIFTS & MERCHANDISE TOYS Our best selling greyhound collectable toys. These are designed for human collecting and not as a rugged canine toy.

RGT BADGES

RGT TEA TOWEL & APRONS

NEW RGT PIN BADGES RGT logo, and Scottish RGT pin badges

£1.50 each

Sold Separately

RGT BRACELETS

HOMER

LARGE TOY

15” Tall, 15” toes to tail HOMER (Fawn), HOPE (Black), HAMISH (Blue)

£14.00 EACH (specify colour)

NEW RGT TEA TOWEL Cotton tea towel. £5.00

HAMISH SMALL TOY

6” Long, 5.5” Tall HOMER (Fawn), HOPE (Black), HAMISH (Blue)

£5.50 EACH (specify colour)

ADJUSTABLE RIBBON BRACELETS

Stylish vibrant bracelets with metal slides.

Printed on both sides.

Available in Green, Pink, Purple, and Grey

£2.50

GREYHOUND 3D CARDS HOPE RGT AIR FRESHENER

With elastic hanging cord. Oriental night scent.

£1.90

Unique laminated card greeting cards that fold to stand. Message can be written in the small envelope and gripped by greyhound’s mouth.

One per pack--please specify colour.

Comes in Black, Blue and Silver.

£3.25

NEW RGT APRON Cotton tie apron. £12.50

40th RGT KEYRING 40th logo and Homer logo on a keyring £4.50 DIARY OF A DOG - by Robert Powell This is the hilarious day-to-day diary of Bandit, a four-year-old retired greyhound adopted by Bertie and taken home to live with a lurcher. All proceeds from this book go to greyhound charities.

GREYHOUND BOB MAGNET

70mm by 50mm.

Acrylic in 4 designs: Rainy Day Blues, Bothered!, Stealth Mode or Three Hounds

£2.75 each £10.00 for set of all four designs

Paperback, 128 pgs - £12.99

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

17

GREYHOUND ESSENTIALS GREYHOUND COATS AND JACKETS

DOUBLE FLEECE JACKET Warm fleece jackets for indoor use or can be worn under a rain mac for added warmth.

Comes in Pink, Hunter Green or Royal Blue with matching edging.

S, M, L, XL (See size chart) £18.00 FAUX LEATHER COAT Water resistant with a faux fur snood-style neck. Neck has opening for a lead. Lined with fleece-style fabric.

Comes in pink with grey fur and tan with cream fur.

S, M, L, XL (See size chart) £45.00

COAT FITTING GUIDE

Small: 26”

WALKOUT COAT To measure your dog for one of our coats, Medium: 28” measure in inches from the base of the neck Thick water resistant material with fleece lining. to the tail a shown to the right: Large: 30” Comes in Pink, Hunter Green or Royal Blue.

Extra Large: “32 Please note that the coat will measure LARGER Do you want to submit artwork or poetry?

S, M, L, XL (See size chart) than the area measured, as designed to cover Email your submissions to homer@retiredgreyhounds.co.uk £30.00 your dog’s rear.

HARNESSES

ALL NEW COLLARS & LEADS

Walking harness designed by Canine Consultant & Behaviourist, Sally Hopkins.

Fully covered in top quality fleece, it features wide straps that are comfortable for your greyhound. Two clips keep it safely in place.

TWEED COLLAR & LEAD - Lined in velvet with brass fittings. Available in Purple Heather or Olive Green.

2 Inch Martingale Collar - £30.00 1Inch House Collar - £20.00 4 Foot Lead - £25.00

LUXURY RIBBON MARTINGALES Martingale style 2 inch collars with nickel plated brass fittings and lined with luxury Swiss velvet. Available in red, light blue, purple, dark blue. - £28.00

Available in Black, Dark Green, Pink, Blue, Hi Vis Harness, Size 5 - 53-77 cm girth size for small & medium greyhounds. £26.50 Harness, Size 6 - 61-89 cm girth size for large greyhounds. £27.50

COTTON FABRIC MARTINGALES Bright cotton fabric pattern with a velvet lining and solid brass nickel plated hardware. Available in Carousel Grey and Carousel Purple. 1.5 inch. £24.00

SWISS VELVET UNLINED COLLAR Wine, Navy, Shocking Pink and Moss Green 1.5 Inch Martingale Collar - £18.00 1 Inch House Collar - £12.00 SWISS VELVET LEADS Wine, Navy, Shocking Pink and Moss Green 1 Inch Double Sided 5 Foot Lead - £25.00 1 Inch Unlined 4 Foot Lead - £16.00

The idea for Doggy Boho evolved from my love of sight hounds. These noble and sincere hounds have truly inspired the ethos of this business.

Doggy Boho is extremely flattered to have been given the opportunity to create this exclusive range for the RGT and together we have created a beautifully coherent collection. I am very proud to support their work in this small way and will always champion their rescue efforts.

I am sure you will agree that every ex racer deserves to be pampered in their retirement and the purchase of at least one beautiful new collar is a must. Please show your support, they all deserve it.

- Jane, Doggy Boho Creator.

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Homer Magazine Autumn & Winter 2015

PET GREYHOUND FOOD Treat your dog right with the only dog food endorsed by the Retired Greyhound Trust and created specifically with your pets’ needs in mind. Manufactured by Dodson & Horrell, this feed is formulated for greyhounds but is ideal for all sight hounds and other larger dog breeds too.

Rich in chicken and enhanced with key vitamins, amino acids and Omega 3 oils.

1 BAG - £21.05 (£25 delivered*) 2 BAGS - £36.05 (£40 delivered*) Want to get your order quickly or need more bags? Call us on 020 8335 3016.

The Pet Greyhound food reviews are in: “We changed to this food last July and it was the best move we have made. Ash loves it and the improvement is noticeable in the health and coat. The vet says she is immaculate - a lot to do with this food.” (Michael) “I am a former Military man and an army marches on its stomach.

In this case it is our retired greyhound Millie. She is that trooper.

When we got her she was just getting over a life threatening illness and in pretty poor condition. After 15 months and a change of diet she is now bright-eyed cold-nosed and full of fun and a totally different dog from the one we took from the kennels. This is mostly due your greyhound dog food.” (Ben)

Order Form QUANTITY

* UK Mainland, excluding Highlands. Call for postage rates to other areas.

Orders can also be made via the website: www.retiredgreyhoundshop.co.uk ITEM

COLOUR/DESIGN

SIZE

PRICE

Personal Details

TOTAL: £

Name: ___________________________________________________________

I enclose a donation of: £

Address: _________________________________________________________

Postage (Mainland Britain only): £3.95

_________________________________________________________________ Postcode: ______________ Daytime Tel: _______________________________

GRAND TOTAL: £ Please call +44 20 8335 3016 for postal charges beyond mainland Britain

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

Gift Aid makes every £1 worth at least £1.25 Yes, I’m a UK Tax Payer and I would like the Retired Greyhound Trust to reclaim the tax on all qualifying donations I have made as well as any future donations until I notify them otherwise.

I confirm I have paid or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax for each tax year that is at least equal to the amount of tax that all the charities 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.

No, I’m not a taxpayer.

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.

Signature:_______________________________

Date:_____________________

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

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

19

Love Homer Magazine?

Sign up today so you don’t miss out!

The Retired Greyhound Trust Friendship Scheme is the best way to stay up-to-date with the Trust’s work.

We know our readers love Homer magazine but it is quite an expense for the Trust, as we print and post out more than 60,000 copies twice a year, and now we need the help of our Friends. By joining the programme you will continue to get Homer magazine twice a year, you’ll get extra benefits and the great feeling knowing that you will help us care for the 1,000 hounds in our care.

If you already sponsor an RGT hound you will still receive Homer and if you are already a life member, you will automatically be transferred to the ‘Friend for Life’ level.

Friendship levels and benefits include: Friend For just £12 a year (£1 a month) you’ll get Homer Magazine posted to your door and a collectable Retired Greyhound Trust badge.

Best Friend If you become a Best Friend for £36 a year (£3 a month) you’ll receive Homer Magazine, an exclusive lapel pin, custom post labels, a set of stylish post cards and a Christmas card from our hounds.

Friend for Life If you are a long-standing greyhound supporter and would like to do even more, why not become a Friend for Life? For a one-off donation of £500 you’ll receive every future issue of Homer plus the following treasures: a ‘Life Friend’ id card, an ultra limited greyhound art print, an exclusive lapel pin, custom post labels, a set of post cards, an annual Christmas card from our hounds and offers on exclusive merchandise.

To find out more about becoming a ‘Friend’ please see the cover letter that came with this issue or visit www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/friendship

Homer Magazine Spring & Summer 2015

Retired Greyhound Trust