Celebrating our 1st adoption of 2012!

Today we officially finalized our FIRST adoption of 2012!

Congratulations to Roo (aka Sally) who was adopted by the wonderful Beals family. She's fitting in very well with her sisters Quinea the Greyhound and Gracie the Italian Greyhound (pictured below).

Congratulations, Roo!

Greyhound vs. Iggy contest!

The Italian Greyhound Rescue Foundation & our friends at Halfway Home Greyhound Adoption (of Tulsa, OK) have teamed up in a hilarious way to raise money and awareness for 2 great causes.

First, you submit a picture of either your Iggy or Greyhound, and that enters them in the "Presidential" race for the following titles:

• Canine Perpetrator…er President of the United States
• Canine VP (Wants power but too lazy to be President)
• Secretary of Slumber
• Speaker of the Doghouse
• Pack … er Majority Leader
• Pilferer of the Treasury
• Attorney General of Shredders, Stashers and Swindlers
• Prince of Piddlers
• Princess of Pooper Scoopers

Votes are $1 each and you can share the contest with anyone and everyone you know to bump up your doggies' votes AND raise money for two great adoption organizations at the same time. We hope everyone considers joining, if for anything, a little bit of fun and friendly competition. Read below for instructions on sending in your presidential candidates' pictures and information!
Read more about the contest {HERE}

HOH thanks The PEDIGREE Foundation!

Hounds of the Heartland would like to thank The PEDIGREE Foundation for recently awarding us with an $891 grant in order to help us continue our mission of placing retired racing greyhounds in loving, forever homes. 

The PEDIGREE Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping dogs in need find loving homes by supporting the good work of shelters and dog rescue organizations around the country.

Specifically, this money donated by The PEDIGREE Foundation will be used to purchase foster dog food, crates, heartworm preventative and pay veterinary expenses for all foster greyhounds in our care. We will be able to put these funds to GREYT use and appreciate all the work they put into helping support rescues and adoption programs across the country.

We would also like to especially thank Janet Riggan, one of our dedicated volunteers who applies for grants for us throughout the years and has raised quite a bit of money for Hounds of the Heartland in her time with us. Janet is owned by Tux the Greyhound and has been a valued volunteer for HOH since 2009. Thank you, Janet, for all the help you have given us throughout the years!

Celebrate Smiley's Adoption!

We can now officially announce that SMILEY the Greyhound has been adopted after 2 years with HOH!

The most wonderful greyhound family has brought him into their home and love him to pieces! Join us this Saturday at the Paws Around Town Greyhound Show & Tell to celebrate Smiley's adoption and with special "human treats" donated by Gigi's Cupcakes of OKC.

We hope to see you there sharing in the excitement of Smiley's forever home! He deserves it!

Greyhound Gala 2012: Volunteer Meeting

We are pleased to announce the date of the 2012 Greyhound Gala: March 10, 2012!

We need to begin securing Sponors and Donors for the event so please check back for details about Sponsorships and Donations.

Any volunteer is welcome to join us on a Greyhound Gala committee and we'd love to have you on the Gala team.

There will be an open volunteer meeting on Sunday, January 8th at 3:00pm at Lighthouse Lutheran Church (in the basement) in Edmond. Lighthouse Lutheran is located at 325 S. Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73034.

The meeting will last about 1.5 hours - we will pass out information about the event and what we need in terms of event volunteers, donations and sponsorships.

Last year we raised over $6,000 - more than twice our goal! We hope we can blow last year's results out of the park and help raise funds for what matters most: our foster greyhounds!

We hope to see you at the Volunteer Meeting on January 8th at 3pm!

Spotlight on Steady!

Steady, or "Lonestar Steady," just came in from the track in Orlando. He has a lot to learn about living in a home but is adjusting nicely. He is very hesitant on experiencing new things, but takes guidance from other dogs very well. He will need a buddy to show him the ropes and make him feel more confident. He will also need a friend to keep him company during the day, he doesn’t like to be left alone. Steady is a quick learner, but will require a patience. Once he feels comfortable he loves to play, run, and really loves a good neck scratch. He has not yet been cat tested but will be soon. Steady is the offspring of HOH’s YooHoo Canoe and Ace’s baby brother.

DELUXE hosts HOH as featured Charity!

This Saturday, December 10th Hounds of the Heartland will have a booth at the DELUXE Indie Craft Bazaar at the State Fairgrounds - Centennial Building in downtown OKC {11am-5pm}. While we have secured all our volunteer spots and are at our maxiumum greyhound limit, we'd love for you and your family/friends to stop by to visit our booth and enjoy the event!

DELUXE is free to attend and ALL items are 100% handmade. We will be raffling off some exciting prizes so be sure to stop by to buy some raffle tickets and support our adoption program. You don't have to be present to win the raffle!

Stop by between 11am-2pm to meet Charley and Polly, both adoptable greyhounds, or come by between 2-5pm to meet Frankie, also currently adoptable and ready for your love!

We hope to see you there!

Special thanks to Sara Cowan and DELUXE for inviting Hounds of the Heartland to the event as the Featured Charity and supporting our hope to find a home for every hound!

Spotlight on Robin!

Robin is a sweet, shy little girl who is coming out of her shell more and more each day. She would do great in a home with other dogs to show her the ropes. She is a real doll and will need someone who is willing to work with her on her shyness and show her that retirement is a greyt time!






Learn more about Robin and other adoptable greyhounds here!

Holiday Hounds: this Saturday!

Join us this Saturday, December 3rd from 12-3pm for a Holiday themed Show & Tell at Paws Around Town in Northpark Mall.

Holiday Hound attire is encouraged as we show off what greyt pets greyhounds make! Well behaved, leashed pets are welcome.

If you would like to have a Christmas portrait of your pet made, Bob Beesly will be set up in front of the store this Saturday providing portrait services for you and your festive pup!

See you there!

{click to enlarge}

Special thanks to Paws Around Town for their hospitality and allowing us to host monthly Show & Tell events in front of their store over the years. We encourage you to shop local and voice your support!

plazaLIFE showcases Goldie the Greyhound!

We are thrilled to be featured in the first plazaLIFE blog post! plazaLIFE is a new blog series highlighting life in the Plaza District and an inside look at the faces and happenings that make The Plaza District the success it is today.

The Plaza District has been especially supportive of our organization and welcomes us to show off our greyhounds at LIVE on the Plaza April through October of each year. Even when we are not showing off our greyhounds they are helping us spread the word about greyhound adoption and what great pets they make.

Thanks to Maria Atkinson for the interview and pictures of Goldie, a currently adoptable greyhound looking for a home for the Holidays!

enjoy the article {HERE}!

Spotlight on Hobbes!

Hobbes, or "VJ Me Can Run," is a sweet boy who is quiet and has great house manners. He's friendly and crates very nicely. Sometimes he will go in there just to get some peace and quiet! He will do best in a home with dogs larger than 20 lbs. and seems to be a good influence on the other bigger dogs in the home. Hobbes has 91 races registered and came to Oklahoma to be adopted out near his brother, Calvin and sister, Lucy. Join the family and adopt Hobbes the greyhound!

HOH featured at DELUXE Indie Craft Bazaar!

Deluxe Indie Craft Bazaar
December 10th
State Fairgrounds, Centennial Building
11am-5pm
FREE admission
http://www.deluxeok.net/

Deluxe is an indie craft fair and community event with free admission in Oklahoma City, where unique artists show and sell their work to enthusiastic shoppers from all over the region. All items are handmade. While the event has an energetic spirit and youthful vibe, Deluxe vendors and shoppers are all ages! Come on out and get some holiday shopping done. This event also features local nonprofits, art activities for kids, music and entertainment, and more!

Hounds of the Heartland will be a featured charity at Deluxe, and selling raffle tickets for some awesome prizes as a fundraiser. If you are interested in donating a raffle prize, or know someone who is, please contact emily.williams@greyhoundpetsok.org.

We need some volunteers to make this event a huge success. If you are able to help out from either 11-2pm or 2-5pm, please contact emily.williams@greyhoundpetsok.org and let her know you are interested in volunteering. You can arrange to pick up a foster greyhound *or* you are welcome to bring your own quiet, WELL BEHAVED greyhound if you are not able to pick up a foster. Please let us know in advance if you are coming with a dog so we know to expect you, as booth space is limited. Thanks!

We hope you can help be a part of this fun, exciting event!

Note: We will be cancelling our regularly scheduled Edmond Petsmart event for this day and encouraging volunteers to help with their well-behaved greyhounds at Deluxe instead! *Holiday Attire (for both people and pets) is encouraged!*

We've reached our goal!

As of today we have officially reached our huge goal of 50 ADOPTIONS for 2011! We are still going strong and hope to help many more greyhounds before the year comes to a close.

We couldn't have reached this goal without the help from all our wonderful foster homes and volunteers helping with events each month.

Congratulations to all our Happy Tails and the families who have adopted them!

Norman PetSmart show & tell: THIS Saturday!

We will still be holding our regularly scheduled Show & Tell event at the PetSmart in Norman this Saturday from 12:00-2:00pm!

Stop by to meet Smiley and other greyhounds that are sure to race into your heart!

Visit us this Saturday at Norman PetSmart and make a fast friend!

Smiley the Greyhound

Spotlight on Lucy!

Lucy, or "VJ Daddy's Girl," is a special girl who was transported from Bluffs Run Greyhound Park back to Oklahoma to live with her brother, Calvin! Lucy is a sweet little girl who is fresh off the track and learning all the ins and outs of home life.

Edmond PetSmart Show & Tell Event: This Saturday!

Join us for a Greyhound Show & Tell Event this Saturday, November 12th from 12:00-2:00pm at the Edmond Petsmart near 19th and Broadway in Edmond.

Volunteers Needed! Bring your own greyhound or volunteer to pick up a foster greyhound to increase their exposure to potential adopters!

See you there!


View Larger Map

Congratulations, Amber!

Congratulations to Amber, aka Rx Amber, for her recent graduation from Beginner Obedience Class! Amber was adopted earlier this year to a wonderful family.

We love this graduation picture... GOOD GIRL Amber! Use your knowledge wisely!

Thanks to all the wonderful dog parents out there that put the time and effort into helping their greyhounds (like Amber!) become the wonderful pets they were meant to be!

4 new dogs this week!

We have 4 new greyhounds arriving this week! Stay tuned for their official website listings and personality information.

Robin

Young White & Brindle Female

Racing Name Unknown

Cat Compatibility To Be Determined

Robin



Hobbes
-adoption pending-

4 year old Brindle Male

Racing Name: VJ Me Can Run

Cat Safe

Hobbes



Polly

2 year old Brindle Female

Racing Name: Luv U Better

Cat Safe



Polly



 

Lucy

- adoption pending -

4 year old Dark Brindle Female

Racing Name: VJ Daddy's Girl

Cat Compatibility To Be Determined

Picture Coming Soon!

 

Lucy and Hobbes are littermates to a greyhound previously adopted through Hounds of the Heartland. Hobbes arrived by hauler from Jefferson County Kennel Club (with help from GPA Tallahassee) on Saturday, November 5th and Lucy will arive via personal transport this coming Sunday, November 13th! Enjoy a picture of Calvin and Hobbes, brothers together at last!



Calvin and Hobbes



Want to search for your adopted greyhound's family members? Visit Greyhound-Data and search by their racing name or ear tattoos. You never know what you may find!

Spotlight on Cassie!

Cassie is a little 16 month old cutie who is a little bit shy until she gets to know you. She loves toys and gets along very well with other dogs and cats. She will go right into her crate when she is asked to, and loves to lounge around the house on her big comfy dog beds. She's got the most gorgeous eyes and sweet personality, you are sure to love her!

Time to order coats!

We've had a lot of recent adopters ask where they can buy their greyhound a coat for the upcoming cold weather. Since greyhounds have very thin skin they need a jacket or coat for cold weather to keep them warm. It can be difficult to find a coat to fit your sighthound at a regular pet supply store, so we often have to order online from a sighthound-specific company.

If you have any suggestions to add to the list for our recent adopters, please send suggestions to GreyhoundPetsOK@GreyhoundPetsOK.org. We're always willing to pass along greyt suggestions to other greyhound lovers. Thanks in advance for your input!

Below is a list of suggested sites and what has been recommended specifically. Most will make them completely custom to your pet's measurements.

Greyhound Goodies - Winter Coats
NGAP Online Store - Fleece Dog Coats
Spoiled Bratzwear Canine Originals - Fleece Sweaters

Please note we do not endorse nor do we have any financial interest in these companies. We hope you find them helpful but cannot guarantee your satisfaction.

Online Auction to support GALT

Our friends at Greyhound Adoption League of Texas are holding an online auction to help cover veterinary bills and other expenses they incur while helping greyhounds in the state of Texas. Swing by today and score some really items!

Visit the Auction!

Halloween Safety Tips

Keep your greyhound's safety in mind this weekend as spooky ghosts and costumed kiddos show up at your door for a treat!

Keep your candy bowl up high and out of reach of your greyhound. Greyhounds can be very interested in the sweet aroma of the candy, especially chocolate. Artificial sweeteners such a Xylitol (commonly found in candy) are also very harmful to your dog. Wrapped candy, if devoured, does not readily dissolve in the stomach and can cause obstruction or irritation to the Greyhound's digestive system.  Those greyhounds can easily reach countertops so keep an eye on your candy bowl at all times! If you suspect your Grey has ingested chocolate or any other candy and is in discomfort, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

The constant ringing of the doorbell on Halloween night can be frightening or upsetting. Keep your Greyhound in their safe place, perhaps their crate or in a bedroom that is far away from the front door. If your Greyhound is friendly and not disturbed by the doorbell, remember that a constant opening of the front door is an invitation to go and "say Hello" to the cute little goblins and possibly run out of the yard. Put a baby gate up in your front door area, or even on your porch if possible. This way, you can reach the kiddos to deliver candy and your Greyhound will remain safe.

ENSURE your greyhound is wearing their collar WITH identification tags 100% of the time. 
 

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Ghost Runners' 5k event: THIS SUNDAY!

THIS Sunday, October 30th we will once again have a booth at the Second Annual Ghost Runners' 5K hosted by Heartland Weimaraner Rescue!

Stop by this event at Stars and Stripes Park on beautiful Lake Hefner in OKC between Noon- 4:00pm with your greyhound to show off what greyt pets they make! Bring a lawn chair and a blanket for your hound to lay on.
If you are interested in hanging out at our booth or can pick up a foster dog for the event to increase their exposure, please contact us at GreyhoundPetsOK@GreyhoundPetsOK.org. There are 2 shifts available; 12:00 - 2:00 and 2:00 - 4:00 (you are welcome to stay the entire time!) We appreciate all the support from our volunteers & foster families! Without you, events like this would not be possible for HOH.

We hope to see you there with your greyhound(s)!

OSU-OKC Farmers' Market: this Saturday!

Stop by our last OSU-OKC Farmers' Market show & tell event of the year this Saturday, October 29th from 10:00-Noon at 400 N. Portland Ave. in OKC! This event is a regular show & tell where we educate local shoppers about the joys of greyhound adoption. You are welcome to bring your own well-behaved greyhound as proof that greyhounds make greyt pets!

This Saturday will be a special chance to show off your greyhound in their Halloween costume, so feel free to dress them up so they can strut their stuff for the locals! Bring a lawn chair and a blanket or travel bed for your greyhound(s) to lay on.

See you there!

Make way for the Greyhound bus!

Life on the Farm: Unwrapped!

Greyhounds begin their life as racing dogs on the farm, where greyhounds of superior lineage are bred with the hopes of producing outstanding offspring. Greyhound litters are usually between 5-10 puppies. The first 5-8 weeks are spent with the mother until they are weaned, and then they are moved to a separate kennel but still close to their mother. Typically the litter remains together for their entire life on the farm, unless one becomes a bully or likewise and in that case they may be moved to a more appropriate grouping of pups.

The pups are handled often and interact with many other dogs and humans on a daily basis. Many think this is the framework to their gentle and well-socialized nature. They are exposed to racing very early in their lives whether it is friendly competition with their littermates or racing around in their large runs, practicing for their glory days to come.

At about 3 months of age, the pups’ ears are tattooed. The left ear tattoo indicates the dogs’ litter number, and all puppies in the litter are marked by the same number in their left ear. The right ear tattoo indicates the birth date. The first number is the month of their birth (i.e., 3 for March or 12 for December) and the second or third digit is the year of their birth within the past decade (i.e., 9 for 2009 ). The letter at the end encodes litter order. It begins with A and the letter indicates the order the pups were tattooed. If the tattoos read Right Ear: 127D and Left Ear: 45264 that would mean the greyhound was born in December of 2007, and all puppies in that litter are tattooed 45264. After tattooing, the entire litter is registered with the NGA and they are on their way to becoming pro-athletes!

At around 5-6 months, the pups are separated into groups and moved into large fenced runs where they will develop and continue to grow, run and play. They are equipped with concrete shelters for shade or when the weather gets cold, and the pups are given kiddie-style pools in the summer for a nice refreshing break from the sun.

Just shy of a year old, the greyhounds are introduced to many different things including proper behavior around humans, walking on lead, wearing the muzzle and recognizing the squawker – which is a predator call they are taught to respond to. At this time they may also be introduced to the Whirly-Gig. The whirly-gig is a long-armed device that rotates and dangles the squawker in front of the pups in a circular motion so they pups become familiar with running around a bend.

After the pups celebrate their first birthday, they are moved to an indoor kennel to simulate life on the track. Each greyhound has their own large kennel with carpeted floors and shredded newspaper for bedding. This is probably where they pick up their professional nesting abilities and cockroach skills! The kennels are stacked two high; females on top, males on bottom. The greyhounds are turned out four to five times per day, giving them a chance to relieve themselves, stretch their legs and interact with their littermates and kennel-mates.

Throughout the next 6 months the dogs will go to “training camp” two times per week to learn how to chase the artificial lure on the track and monitor their progress as racers. The dogs that don’t make the cut or aren’t excelling during their training period are released into adoption where they will begin their journey to their forever home. The rest will continue to train and practice and prepare for their journey to the racetrack as real bonafide athletes!  

Greyhounds begin racing at 18 months old and can legally race until they are 5 years old. At that time they will either go to an adoption group or back to the farm where they were raised for breeding or until they are moved to adoption. Many of our adoptable greyhounds have raced in Florida, Texas, Alabama, etc. but after retirement were brought back to their breeding farm to wait until we can take them into a foster home. Thanks to the support from the farms where they were bred, they are given the opportunity for a great life after their racing career has ended.

It is clear that Retired Racing Greyhounds have an extremely unique and structured upbringing, making them wonderful companions and excellent family pets! Please visit All About Greyhounds for additional interesting information about greyhounds from Birth to Track.

Special “Thanks” to the Greyhound Racing Association of America for providing detailed information about Greyhounds on the farm.

See you TONIGHT at LIVE on the Plaza!

We hope to see you tonight at LIVE on the Plaza! Whether you're looking for a new pet, just want to meet the dogs, or have your own greyhound that you want to bring out & socialize - this event is sure to be a big hit with you and your family/friends/coworkers!

Hounds of the Heartland will be set up on the corner of NW 16th & Blackwelder in OKC with a table & information to hand out. Bring a lawn chair, hang out with the group and then walk around and enjoy the district's unique local vibe. The Plaza District is very furry-friendly, so well behaved dogs are welcome.

Costumed dogs get a special doggie-friendly snack and costumed kids can stop by for a sweet treat!

Meet Charley and Clooney, both adoptable greyhounds through Hounds of the Heartland!

LIVE on the Plaza is a monthly artwalk event which promotes emerging artistic talent in Oklahoma City. It provides the community an opportunity to view emerging talent each month, as well as socialize with a diverse mix of artists, professionals, neighborhood residents and families.

See you there!

Vera is HOME!

Congratulations to the Mix family who adopted Vera (aka Brassrat) last month. Thanks for sending in the pictures- she looks so happy!

Do you want to share pictures of your recently adopted greyhound? Send us pictures and a story at GreyhoundPetsOk@GreyhoundPetsOK.org!

2 New Fosters this Weekend!

Our HOH Foster Family will be growing this Saturday!
Stay tuned for details about our 2 new ladies arriving Saturday. After their vetting on Monday they will be looking for love (hopefully in all the right places!)

Ruby ("Boo")

Fawn Female

Born July 2010

Cat Safe

Ruby ("Boo")

Mystery Dog #2

Brindle Female

Born July 2010

Cat Safe

Check back for details and pictures!

View our list of currently adoptable greyhounds, all ready to find their forever home!

Haunted Hounds on the Plaza: THIS Friday!

This Friday, October 14th come enjoy the beautiful fall weather on Friday at LIVE on the Plaza! This is a great event for the greyhounds-- whether you're looking for a new pet, just want to meet the dogs, or have your own greyhound that you want to bring out & socialize. Hounds of the Heartland will be set up on the corner of 16th & Blackwelder in OKC with a table & information to hand out. Bring a lawn chair, hang out with the group and then walk around and enjoy the district's unique local vibe. The Plaza District is very furry-friendly, so well behaved dogs are welcome.

Say hi and pet the dogs, and costumed kids get a piece of candy! Costumed pups get a special dog-friendly treat!

If you would like to volunteer please contact us at GreyhoundPetsOK@GreyhoundPetsOK.org! We need volunteers to bring foster dogs.

LIVE on the Plaza is a monthly artwalk event which promotes emerging artistic talent in Oklahoma City. It provides the community an opportunity to view emerging talent each month, as well as socialize with a diverse mix of artists, professionals, neighborhood residents and families. See you there!

Who Knew? The History of Greyhounds

The Greyhound is an ancient breed dating back to the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt. They are the oldest purebred dog still in existence today. Evidence of their origin goes back over 4,000 years. Paintings inside the tombs of the great Pyramids depicted Greyhounds. They were prized pets and hunting companions of many ancient peoples including the Egyptians, Arabs, Greeks, and Romans. The mythical Greek Goddess Diana is usually pictured with a greyhound at her side. In early Arabian culture, the birth of a Greyhound was cause for great celebrations and second only in importance to the birth of a son. They were the only dogs permitted to share an Arab's tent or ride atop his camel. They were also the only dogs mentioned by name in the King James Version of the Bible (Proverbs 30-29-31).

To be presented with a Greyhound was considered the most prized gift one could receive. Persians believed that the Greyhound was permitted in the next world to give information and evidence about mankind. It was the Egyptians who first raced Greyhounds for sport in open fields with a wild hare as quarry and no rules of the game except speed. In the Early Kingdom, Greyhounds were considered to possess divine powers. Greyhounds almost became extinct during the Middle Ages as famine and pestilence spread across the land. Men of the cloth saved them, and nobility claimed them as an exclusive right of theirs.

Greyhounds were bred as coursing dogs, with the ability to track its prey by sight rather then smell, spot a moving object up to half a mile away, sight game over huge expanses of open terrain and to run at great speeds over long distances in pursuit of their prey. Thus, the streamlined bodies and narrow heads to cut the wind, deep chests to allow for enlarged heart and lung capacity, long legs and well-muscled quarters to enable them to cover ground at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. They possess keen intellect and seem intuitively connected to each other and their prey when coursing in an open field. Their sprinting ability enables them to expend an enormous amount of energy in a short period of time. They run at their fastest between 40 and 45 miles per hour. Their ability to blend speed, coordination, and strategy has made them great hunters as well as racers.

Like a forest of trees, Greyhounds are one of earth's valued treasures. Greyhounds probably came to England with the Gaelic peoples and quickly became popular with the nobility of the land. The Royal Houses kept and hunted with Greyhounds. The peasants also recognized the value of these dogs and their ability to catch small game. Many homesteads kept a Greyhound or two.

In 1014, King Canute instituted the Forest Laws, forbidding commoners to hunt with their Greyhounds on Royal Lands. Any peasant caught hunting in the Royal Forests would be fined and his Greyhound seized, lamed, or killed. These laws, in one form or another, remained in effect for hundreds of years, and the constant battles between the nobility and the commoners became known as the Greyhound Wars. This was the time when the white or parti-colored Greyhounds became associated with the nobility, and the solid colored dogs, with the common folk. The darker colored dogs were better camouflaged when they hunted in the forests and fields at dusk or early morning. The prejudice concerning the colors of Greyhounds continued down through the years and was still affecting the Greyhound as a show dog in the United States as late as the 1950's and 60's. The white and parti-colored Greyhounds were the ones who appeared most often in the show ring and did the most winning. Happily, today, this prejudice does not exist and although many owners and breeders prefer one color to another, success in the show ring is no longer controlled by the color of a Greyhound.

Coursing as a sport grew out of the Greyhounds' natural hunting abilities and tremendous speed and agility in the field. In England in the 18th and 19th centuries, the Landed Gentry, being the sporting folk that they were, formed coursing clubs and met on weekends to compete with their Greyhounds. The Waterloo Cup was one such contest, and it grew to become the premier coursing event in the world. At a coursing meet, several dogs are slipped (loosed) at the "Tally Ho!" signal of the Huntmaster and chase a hare until it is either caught or eludes the dogs. Each Greyhound in competition is judged on its speed, agility, ability to follow and turn the hare, and on the kill.

As the British immigrated to America, they brought their Greyhounds with them and found them ideally suited to chase down rabbits that were interfering with their crops. This led to bets and wagers among the farmers as to who had the faster dog. In the early 1900's Oval Track Racing was developed and quickly grew in importance. This new greyhound activity became more popular than coursing, as it was contained within a smaller space, did not involve the killing of live game, and lent itself well as a spectator sport.

In the last ten years there has been a tremendous grass roots movement in this country and abroad to adopt retired racers and place them in loving homes. This movement, accompanied as it has been by extensive media coverage, is placing thousands of Greyhounds into homes each year and adding greatly to the already well-established interest in the breed.

The Greyhound is one of the most aesthetically pleasing members of the dog world. Although he is not fluffy, cute and cuddly, he does seem to appeal to the "artist" in all of us. The Greyhound has appeared quite often in art through the ages, depicted on tomb walls, ancient Greek and Roman pottery and statues, and in practically all tapestries depicting hunting scenes. He was used extensively in advertising and artwork of the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods. Many ads in the 1930's, 40's, and 50's showed models accompanied by Greyhounds. Several different car manufacturers used the Greyhound in their advertising, as their logo, or as a hood ornament. Of course, America's best known bus line adopted the Greyhound not only as its logo, but as its name as well.

Our American General Custer was a big Greyhound fancier, President Lincoln had a Greyhound on his family coat-of-arms, John Barrymore, the famous actor, always kept his house full of Greyhounds as pets, and Bo Derek, the actress, has several retired racing Greyhounds, and is a great advocate of Greyhound Adoption programs.

The Greyhound's incredible elegance, grace and beauty attract those with a heightened sense of fashion and design. His power and speed interests those who move in the "fast lane". His muscular build and agility liken him to the athlete. His sporting nature and colorful history endear him to the outdoorsman and members of the "horsey set". His gentleness, devotion and sense of humor garner him a place in the hearts of all those who know and love him.

The Greyhound was long considered dog Dom's "best kept secret". Now that the word is out, more and more people are adopting Greyhounds. Greyhound owners are an intensely loyal and supportive group who love their charges with a passion. There is definitely a great interest in the breed around the globe. After so many years of companionship with mankind, years filled with love, humor and admiration, the Greyhound is finally realizing his due; a soft place on the couch of a family who adores him and a society who appreciates one of the most colorful, most beautiful dogs in existence today.

HOWLOWEEN Party at Pleasant Pooch!

Are you looking for something fun and festive to do with your greyhound on Halloween weekend? Attend Pleasant Pooch Doggie Daycare's Howloween Party & Costume Contest! You will have the chance to win a $150 credit for Training, Boarding, or Daycare.
October 29th
1:00pm-3:00pm
6976 Highwater Circle
Edmond, OK 73034

Edmond Petsmart Show & Tell: Cancelled

The regularly scheduled Show & Tell event at the Edmond Petsmart this Saturday, October 8th has been cancelled.

Mark your calendar for our next Show & Tell events at LIVE on the Plaza on Friday, October 14th at 7:00pm and at the Norman Petsmart on Saturday, October 22nd from 12:00-2:00pm!

For up-to-date listings of our upcoming group events, visit our Event Calendar!

Spotlight on Charley!

Charley, or KB's Turley, is a friendly greyhound who is cat safe and playful. He will make a great companion! He seems to love everyone he meets and gets along nicely with strangers.

2nd Annual Ghost Runners' 5k

Sunday, October 30th we will once again have a booth at the Second Annual Ghost Runners' 5K hosted by Heartland Weimaraner Rescue.

We will be at the event from Noon - 4:00pm and the 5K race starts at 2:00. The 5k and Rescue event will be held at Stars & Stripes Park on beautiful Lake Hefner in OKC. To read more about the event visit http://www.ghostrunners5k.com/

If you are interested in volunteering at our booth or can pick up a foster dog for the event to increase their exposure, please contact us at GreyhoundPetsOK@GreyhoundPetsOK.org. There are 2 shifts available; 12:00 - 2:00 and 2:00 - 4:00 (or, of course, you are welcome to stay the entire time!) We appreciate all the support from our volunteers & foster families! Without you, events like this would not be possible for HOH.

We hope to see you there with your greyhound(s)!

Visit us this Saturday: 2 locations!

Visit us this Saturday at Edmond Pet Medical Center's 2nd Annual Pet Health Fair on Saturday, October 1st!

2nd Annual Pet Health Fair

October 1st, 2011

10:00am - 2:00pm

Pet Medical Center of Edmond

1001 W. 15th St., Edmond, OK

FREE to the community & fun for the whole family!

The 2nd Annual Pet Health Fair is a fundraiser for the Edmond Animal Shelter (Paws For Life). The event will feature a Silent Auction, Food, a Moonbounce, Face Painting, Edmond K9 Unit Demonstrations, Live Pet Adoptions, Vendor Booths, and best of all Door Prizes! Bring your family and your greyhound(s) out for a GREYT time!

Foster Greyhounds Betty, Frank and Smiley will be making an appearance, so stop by to meet these two sweet kiddos and learn about how adopting a greyhound can make your life whole!

We will also be having our regular monthly show & tell event at Paws Around Town from 12:00 - 3:00pm!

Paws Around Town Show & Tell

October 1st, 2011

12:00pm - 3:00pm

Paws Around Town (inside Northpark Mall)

122nd & N. May Ave., OKC

Stop by Paws Around Town inside Northpark Mall this Saturday between 12:00-3:00pm to visit with our volunteers, meet our greyt group of greyhounds and pick up a brochure to learn more about greyhound adoption! Don't forget to stop inside Paws Around Town to pick up a special treat for the pampered pooch in your life.

Have you smiled today?

http://gap.grv.org.au/2011GAPTelevisionCommercial.aspx

Greyhounds @ OK State Fair: this Sunday!

This Sunday HOH foster families and volunteers will be showing off their adoptable greyhounds at the Oklahoma State Fair in Barn #3 from 1:00 - 7:00PM. Hosted by the OVMA (Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association), this program is all about educating the public about responsible pet ownership and the option to adopt rather than buy.


Bring your family to the Oklahoma State Fair on Sunday September 25th, the LAST day of the fair and stop by to see our adoptable greyhounds and how beautiful they are! Tell your friends, family & coworkers and encourage them to stop by and see the retired racers!

 Below is a map of the State Fairgrounds and our location in Barn #3.

[Click to Enlarge]

Special thanks to all the volunteers & foster parents that have offered to spend the afternoon promoting greyhound adoption!

Volunteers Needed: 2nd Annual Pet Health Fair

Hounds of the Heartland will have a booth at the Pet Medical Center's 2nd Annual Pet Health Fair on Saturday, October 1st!

2nd Annual Pet Health Fair

October 1st, 2011

10:00am - 2:00pm

Pet Medical Center of Edmond

1001 W. 15th St., Edmond, OK

FREE to the community & fun for the whole family!

The 2nd Annual Pet Health Fair is a fundraiser for the Edmond Animal Shelter (Paws For Life). The event will feature a Silent Auction, Food, a Moonbounce, Face Painting, Edmond K9 Unit Demonstrations, Live Pet Adoptions, Vendor Booths, and best of all Door Prizes!

We would love for you to come out with your greyhound(s) and enjoy a nice day out, educating residents about the joys of greyhound adoption. If you are interested in helping, please e-mail EmilyHummel@GreyhoundPetsOK.org for information!


View Larger Map

Greyhound First Aid Class: Register now!

Have you ever tried to bandage a part of your greyhound’s anatomy and as soon as they move it falls off?

Do you wonder when you need to take your greyhound to the veterinarian?

Would you like some pointers on giving your greyhound a pill?

These and other questions will be answered and explored in a 2 hour First Aid Class presented by Hounds of the Heartland and taught by our very own Candee Scott!

This will be a hands-on class and each participant is encouraged to bring their own cooperative greyhound to use for bandaging practice. The cost of the class includes a first aid booklet, vet wrap and instruction.

Contact Candee by phone at 848-3643 or e-mail cscott8212@cox.net to sign up for the class!

The Specifics
When: Sunday October 16th from 2pm – 4pm
Where: Lighthouse Lutheran Church basement; 325 S Boulevard; Edmond, OK
Cost: $15 per household
Includes: Book & supplies (one set per household/entry fee)

Spotlight on Betty!

Betty, or "Betty Kohana," is a 5 year old petite little cutie who is very sweet natured and loving. Betty gets along very well with other dogs her size and small dogs and cats. She currently lives in a foster home with 2 greyhounds, a cat, a chihuahua and an italian greyhound- they are all her best friends! She also really loves human companionship. She will follow you around until you sit down, then she will find a cozy place to lay and snuggle right in. Betty is very quiet, until you leave the house then you will hear a little "roooOoOoOo" as if she is saying "I miss you! Come back!" but then she quiets down and waits for you to return. She is a great car rider, she lays down and loves to look out the window, wondering where you are taking her, hoping it's somewhere she'll get lots of hugs and kisses. Betty's big brown eyes will win you over in an instant. Stop by our next show & tell to meet this precious girl!

Spotlight on Batman!

Batman, or "Flat Out Bat," is a tall, dark & handsome young man who is laid back, easygoing and gets along well with everyone! He will do best in a home without small dogs or cats. He is friendly and very social! Batman is great on leash and rides well in the car. Contact us today to meet Batman!

Did we mention he comes with his own theme song? Danananananananananananananana...BATMAN! :)