A greyhound's perspective of adoption

By Toes
As told to his mom

Like most greyhounds, I was looking forward to retirement and having a forever home and family. I thought I found my forever family. I had lived with a family for 2 years until one day when we went on a car ride. Our ride started to look familiar.....I was back at the adoption kennel at Pups Without Partners. I had been a good dog yet I was being returned because the parents were getting divorced. I was devastated.
 

 
At the kennel, it was hard to be around the other dogs...so excited about their futures. One day a girl entered the kennel and I wanted her to be my new mom. She played with several dogs individually; then it was my turn. I turned on the charm and we played for what seemed like hours. She left and returned a week later with a boy. I knew they were coming for me. Janie let me out of the kennel, hooked me to a leash and said good-bye.

A short car ride later and we arrived at my new home. It took some time to adjust: I didn't want to go into my new kennel but I got used to it. After three days, I was introduced to Angel, a 16 year old cat. I quickly learned that she was alpha. She ate my food, drank my water, and pawed at me just because. But, I liked her and we got along great. When she died, I was very sad. I went from room to room looking for her.

My new parents are wonderful. I have a large toy box filled with toys. I scatter them around the living room or play with the loudest and squeakiest ones while my parents are watching a movie. I go to the park to play or walk with my new friends. Mom and I go for walks around the neighborhood where everyone knows my name and stops to pet me, ask questions about my former career or about greyhounds in general. I get one treat per day but I have to do a trick before I get the treat. I love to pose in front of the camera. I even won a photo contest! My parents are very patient. For the first three months, I did not want to climb stairs downstairs to the basement. One day, my Dad grabbed my collar and walked me down the stairs. Now, I run up and down the stairs every day. Sometimes I take the stairs 2-3 at a time. I enjoy a good car ride, even if I am going to the vet. Nothing beats the wind blowing in my fur or the feel of air conditioning on my face.

Currently, I don't have any human siblings but I have met my parents' niece and nephews. I have been poked in the eye, woke up during a nap and unknowingly been a participant in leap frog. They even wanted to ride me! But, all the time, I remained patient and calm.

I've been with this family since 2005. I know they are my true forever family. I love them very much and I know that they love me. Ahhhh...now this is retirement!