What’s Next? | God's World News
What’s Next?
Critter File
Posted: July 01, 2022

People started racing greyhounds in the United States around the 1920s. Back then, they had just invented the mechanical lure—typically a stuffed bone or stuffed animal that swiftly clatters around the track ahead of the dogs to attract them. The sport became a normal part of American life. At times, dog racing grew even more popular than horse racing.

Greyhounds also whip around tracks in Australia, Great Britain, Ireland, Mexico, and Vietnam. But now in those places, too, people are starting to say, “No more racing!”

What will become of the lean, energetic dogs?

Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast. — Proverbs 12:10

Homes for Former Racers

Did you know the greyhound is the only dog breed mentioned in the Bible? Maybe you’ve spotted it listed in the New King James Version as one of the “three things that are majestic in pace.” (Proverbs 30:29-31 NKJV)

What’s it like bringing one of these majestic mammals home once its racing career ends? New owners need to know that racing greyhounds . . .

  • have incredibly keen eyesight, hearing, and smell.
  • are great sprinters, but they don’t like long hikes. And some really turn into couch potatoes after retirement.
  • are shy, sensitive, gentle, and smart.
  • enjoy company. This could be another greyhound if you have space for two. It could also be you. Your greyhound is used to being surrounded by other dogs. He might get anxious when you leave him alone.
  • might never have learned regular doggie skills. Running? Yes. Sitting or climbing stairs? Maybe not.
  • have spent years traveling to racetracks. So many love a good car ride.