Rose - By Stuart Chalmers

Rose had been living with us for a few months, had settled in nicely, and made friends with her new boyfriend Honcho. It was time to get Rose spayed, otherwise we could be in for trouble. We had already become very attached to Rose, as she is particularly affectionate and 'cuddly'.

On Friday morning I drove Rose to the Vet, Anna, who is my sister. Rose had a quick examination - all seemed well. Anna asked if I would like pre-anaesthetic blood tests, and advised that these are usually unnecessary and would not be a normal procedure in a dog of Rose's age ( Rose had just turned 3). She has a young greyhound as well, and she said that she wouldn't bother doing them for him - the risks are very small, so I ticked the "no" box without a second thought.

I picked Rose up that evening, and she was obviously tired and sore, which we expected. Over the weekend, Rose refused to eat anything at all, and kept vomiting. I spoke to Anna, who seemed concerned - she expected Rose to be doing much better by Sunday. On Sunday afternoon we took Rose to the surgery, where Anna examined her. Rose could have been having an allergic reaction to the suture material used. The only other explanation was that a swab had somehow been left in the abdomen, and Anna was 100% sure that this was not the case. We believed her, of course, I know that she had given Rose the best possible attention in her operation. Rose was given some injections, and she came home, where we monitored her carefully.

Monday morning came, and Rose still would not eat. She was still being sick regularly despite not having eaten at all. She seemed unsteady and refused to lie down. I had to go to work, so I persuaded my mum to take Rose to see Anna.

Anna examined Rose again, and gave her some more injections to stop her being sick. She kept Rose at the surgery to monitor her. Rose spent monday night on Anna's bed with her, as that was the only place she would lie down.

On Tuesday, Anna performed more tests on Rose, including ultrasound and blood analysis. She was placed on intravenous fluids and kept in the surgery. We were seriously concerned about Rose's health, and eagerly waited for news, which was a shock when it came. The blood tests showed extremely high levels of urea and creatinine in Rose's blood - indicators of severe kidney failure. Anna believed that Rose must have had kidney problems since birth, and the anaesthetic had triggered a massive failure. We were all shocked as this was the last thing we expected in a dog of Rose's age. The prognosis was not good, as signs of kidney failure only occur once 70% of the kidney is failing. We were to expect the worse, and the possibility of a tough decision to make.

Throughout the week Rose was kept on a drip to flush the toxins out of her and give her Kidneys a chance to start working, and she slept in the surgery at night. We went to see her every day and took her out for a walk. Although she was pleased to see us, we could tell she was unhappy. We encouraged her to eat ( which she refused to do). Anna and Fiona the veterinary nurse visited her every night to change her drip. By the weekend, Rose had lost nearly 5kg and was incredibly thin, but she started to eat a little food. We persuaded Anna's boss to let us keep Rose in over the weekend, and keep up the treatment. We knew that he did not think Rose would make it - he hadn't seen enough of an improvement, and we appreciated the fact that George and Anna were being honest about her chances, and were not giving us false hope. We all wanted to prove that we were doing the right thing. We knew things were getting better, albeit slowly.

By Sunday, Rose was much brighter and had started to eat more. Her blood samples were still very high, but had improved slightly. We took Rose home, and she was placed on a special diet and medication. Over the next few weeks Rose put her weight back on, and gradually returned to her normal silly self. She has had several blood tests since, and these have shown a huge improvement, almost returning to normal values. We hope the improvement will continue.

Although we don't know the long term prognosis for Rose, the signs are good and we know we made the right decision to keep fighting for her, when most vets would have advised to stop the treatment. There are two lessons in this story: Karen told me that greyhounds are fighters, and she is right. Rose wanted to keep going and we just needed to help her through it, so do not give up on them, or let your vet give up on them too soon.The second lesson is to think very carefully about pre-anaesthetic blood tests before placing you dog under general anaesthetic - regardless of the dog's age.

Throughout Rose's treatment we had fantastic support from Karen at Greyhound Rescue, who I spoke to nearly every day. Anna, Fiona,George and all the nurses at Avalon Veterinary Clinic in Glasgow were brilliant. I want to thank these people for their support, and their belief in Rose. Without them, it is likely that she would not be with us now.

Honcho

Rose

Honcho

Rose

Honcho

Rose

Fran & Connor To The Rescue!

We had a summer fair to go to at a local school in July and it was really a 2 man job with setting up, running the stall and looking after the greyhound we were taking.

We were all booked and Karen was coming but unfortunately due to Karens condition she was unable to attend and it was looking like I may not be able to leave her as she was so unwell that day.

However Karen did not want to let anyone down and refused to give in…..But she just was not up to it.

Fran Laird, the daughter of local vet Ian Laird, who herself is a vet, knows us well and was straight there offering to come along and run the stall along with her partner Connor.

How wonderful to have such kind people to step in like this, giving up their weekend to help.

WE cannot thank both of them enough for their help. It was a fun day and Connor and Bob the greyhound fell in love!!! I actually think Connor was going to take Bob home had he got the chance!

The day was hot and having a vet there too for Bob was even more precious!

Madaleine was made up that we had been able to attend as it was her school fair and she has becoming involved herself in the greyhound rescue charity as at the grand young age on 10, she is a massive animal lover and is very passionate about animal welfare and even did a talk at school about it to the other students. Well done Madaleine, you will go far in this world with a big heart like that! Both Karen and I are very proud of Madaleine for her contribution to the cause and hope she keeps it up in the future and look forward to seeing more of her when Karen is feeling better.

The charity event was fun and we ran a tombola which we did have lots of fun doing. We met some lovely people and all went well with the new pop up gazebo!!! Which is always a laugh putting up!

Both Fran and Connor have offered to help again at future events and we cannot wait to take them up on it!! So watch out you two!!

Also, as some of you are aware, I am having my head shaved with a difference for the charity on the 26th November 2017, which you can read about on the website and on my crowdfunding page (https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/dawn-schultz) Just copy and paste this link into your search to find my page & donate if you can!

Also Connor (Frans’ partner), Mark McGee (who adopted Aida Now Bonnie, James Fernandez (our electrician), And also the one and only Andy Hutchingson who adopted (Bobby) will be having their legs waxed for the charity all on the 26th November 2017....There will be others too!!! 

So, they all have sponsorship forms, but you can donate through the paypal donate button on our website and just add the name of who you want to cause pain and suffering to! Or you can send a cheque made payable to Greyhound Rescue and send to Crimea Cottage, Sutterton Drove, Amber Hill, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE20 3RP. Hopefully we can get a crowdfunding page for these guys sorted too!!!

We do really appreciate your support…. Oh yes and Bob who was at the summer school fair was rehomed a week later and his story is on here too!!! Well done to Bob X

Fran & Connor with Burgandy Bob!

Fran Running the tombola while Connor looks after Bob 

They suit a greyhound don't they Bob?

Madaleine & Bob at her summer school fair

Madalaleine helping out on the stall at her school fair

Dawn Is Doing A Fundraising Challenge...Can You Help? Please Read X

Here is the story...

I am shaving my head on the 26th November 2017 in aid of Greyhound Rescue Charity No 702522. Where horses and Cats are also rescued too!

'Looking A Fool For Karen & The Animals'

The head shaving will be 'with a difference'! I will be made to look like a 'Unicorn' with a 'Q' in the back of my head in honour of one of the horses here who has had (& is still having) a 2 year battle with laminitis.
The funds we raise are for the greyhounds in our care, for food, vets bills & ongoing care & support as we are struggling.
For over 38 years this rescue has cared for & rehomed so many greyhounds & saved so many from such a horrible outcome, after all, they have given their all to the greyhound industry..Yet now many are being exported to China for the meat trade & Spain/Pakistan after their careers end here and in Ireland, all for a terrible end. We need to raise more awareness and help get more through the rescue to help stop this shocking abuse. I have lovely long hair now and my mum id going to go mad with me so if you all want to see my mums reaction too....you know what to do!!! Just a little donation! It all helps! 
The founder of the rescue & the kindest person I know is unwell now too & we need all the help we can get to continue to support her & her legacy- Greyhound Rescue' Looking A Fool For Karen & The Animals!
Please help me by making me look a fool - dawn - the unicorn!
Many thanks

Dawn Schultz

xxx

Please copy & Paste the link below into your search to donate whatever you can to help Dawn reach her target!

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/dawn-schultz-unicorn

Or you can donate through our paypal donate button on our website or send a cheque made payable to 'Greyhound Rescue' and address is: Crimea Cottage, Sutterton Drove, Amber Hill, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE20 3RP.

Bambi - Our Story by Mel & Tim

Bambi before she was collected by Tim & Mel - at her previous home ... never went out, spending most of her time caged. x (Picture added by Greyhound Rescue)

Bambi... as a 4 month pup xxx before she was collected by Mel & Tim xx

We first met Karen and Dawn when we were looking for a 3rd dog! We had sadly lost our 13 year old rescue lurcher Poppy in the March 2014.

We already had a 6 year old german shepherd called Jackson and a 7 year old rescue greyhound called Susie but felt we had become a '3 dog' family!

We felt we had it in our hearts to rescue Connie a 14 year old greyhound who had been massively overlooked.

We were told that Connie had lived in rescue nearly all her life but was not good with other dogs sadly.

Karen asked us if we would consider a 5 month old greyhound cross called Bambi? Very different to an old greyhound!

Bambi was still living with her owner but was being put up for adoption as the owners child had an allergy to her! Sadly she was living in a crate most of the day!

We decided to give her a chance as we thought a puppy would be very popular but would bounce straight back to rescue.

Bambi lived 2 hours from us so we met the owner halfway. Bambi was so gorgeous and so friendly. All the way home she sat on my knee looking into my eyes and looked so worried.

We got her home and introduced her to Susie who was not bothered at all. Jackson our shepherd was not too happy and kept barking at her and eyeballing her!

It took 2 days for Bambi and Jackson to become mates.

Jackson would sit with all his toys to play with her!

These 2 are still great mates 2 years on!

Susie gets off the sofa every now and then to calm the play down. She stands between them and barks to tell them off, its so funny.

We feel Bambi found us really as she reminds us of our beautiful Poppy but lighter in colour as Poppy was black.

She is a lovely girl and love her so much!

Karen and Dawn are still in touch with us nearly 2 years down the line.

We took Bambi on the 2 hour journey to see them as Bambi came directly from her owner but passed through their rescue.

I try and call them when I have a minute which is not often as I run a very busy dog walking business as well as having 3 dogs of our own!

These are 2 amazing selfless ladies doing an amazing job well done to you both!

xx

We really appreciate with such heart felt emotion the lengths Mel and Tim went to for Bambi. She was in a very difficult situation that needed sorting out very urgently and even though these 2 wonderful people had their hearts set on our beautiful Connie (who has sadly now passed away), they didn't hesitate in making their selfless decision to help another dog in destress....even though she was only a pup and we all know a pup is not an easy task to take on.

Bambi...snoozing in the sun x

Bambi is a big girl now and very loved by all her family xx And...she knows it! X

We cannot thank you enough. Also, Mel and Tim have been continued supporters of Greyhound rescue since our first contact, collecting items to sell and donating monies towards the greyhounds in our care.

We have made 2 very special friends and so have the dogs - plus their lovely children too and of course Jackson and Susie. xxx

Karen & Dawn

Buster Finally Finds His Forever Home! X

Buster & His 'Pink Panther'!

Buster with his new mum...Just setting off to his new life! x

Buster Finally Find His Forever Home - heart warming story from his new mum Nicola x

We lost our precious Pilot in December 2015, and decided to give ourselves some time to recover. But the house felt wrong without a greyhound in it! Late last year, Dawn mentioned a fawn greyhound that had been in rescue for what seemed like a long time- Buster, a gentle, kind-hearted boy who deserved a forever home, like they all do. So in early January this year, I made a six hour round trip to meet him. I sat chatting to Karen, waiting for Dawn to bring him in and I can honestly say I melted when I met him- in he came, a gentle soul. He came over to where I was sitting, looking at me with the most amazing brown eyes I'd ever seen in a dog, and immediately put his head in the crook of my arm for a cuddle. I knew straight away the long drive was worth it. I took him for a walk with Dawn, and that was it! I knew he had to come and live with us- so he was reserved for me. So, in April, my husband and I made the long trip to bring Buster home. He remembered me- stood on his hind legs and put his front paws on my shoulders! He greeted Tony more gently though! Big lad and I had to sit on the back seat of the car on the way home! We realised our car is not dog-friendly! He cuddled up to me all the way back up north, and at one point tried to get on my knee! He was clearly nervous- I could feel the tension in his shoulders. He finally relaxed as we drove into Yorkshire- the tension melted and he drifted off to sleep. We got home, and let Buster mooch around his new surroundings. We gave him a bath- he looked very doleful but simply sat down in the water and let me lather him up!! What a star! It was all a bit much, and once dried he went to sleep! We took him to collect our sons from sport club. Their faces lit up when they saw him- he was so calm and gentle around them, it was so lovely to see. That night, we wondered where he'd want to sleep. After our bedtime walk, he walked straight into our bedroom and flopped out! He'd clearly decided he'd sleep near us, thanks very much! We didn't hear a peep all night- he slept like a log. We were amazed he was so calm, considering it was his first night in his new home. He was so good the next morning and gently woke me up to let him out for a quick wee- after which, he promptly went back to bed until we were all up, dressed and ready for our morning walk. Pilot was never very keen on other dogs. Buster, however, seems to like other dogs, and gives them a good sniff with his tail wagging! He's even made some doggy friends! He's also a bit of a star on the school run. He genuinely seems to enjoy seeing everyone at the school gate, and as he's a rather handsome boy, quite a few people want to stroke him- which he loves. I must confess I was worried about leaving him when I went to work. I needn't have- he basically gets on the sofa and doesn't budge until I come home! It did take him a couple of weeks to suss out the sofas, mind you! But now he loves to get up for a cuddle- fortunately for us, he soon gets too warm and goes on his bed after 10 minutes or so to cool off! Buster's been with us just over three weeks, during which we've helped him celebrate his 7th birthday. It seems much longer, not because he's troublesome, simply because he has slotted into the household routine so easily, as though he's been here all his life. We simply can't believe how amazing he is, and how well he has adapted to home life. We all adore him, and he is so gentle around our sons. He was worth the long round trip and the sadness I personally felt at losing Pilot has lifted. "Thank you for choosing such a wonderful dog, Mum", said my youngest son. It's not really like that- Buster Browneyes chose me and in doing so has brought much joy to our family. We've even bought a new dog-friendly car, so he can come with us on day trips out and on holidays, and we will love him for the rest of his life. He deserves nothing less.

By Nicola Frear

We would like to thank Nicola and Tony & Family for giving Buster the chance to shine and be the dog he deserves to be and to have the happiest ending we could ever wish for him. 

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Karen & Dawn x

Buster Brown Eyes!

Buster & his new family

     Pilot & Companion

On The Line: Cradle To Grave - Documentary featuring Karen Schultz

This is how long it has been going on but we must remember - whist things have got only slightly better since these times - we are facing an even bigger issue now with the ending of greyhound racing....not only the fact it may go 'underground'....or the influx of hundreds of thousands of greyhounds, or the worry of the amount of greyhounds going 'missing or destroyed' but we have to worry now about the live export of these already abused greyhounds, to Pakistan, Spain and China, where their fate is to be much worse....not only terribly beaten and abused but also boiled alive and used for meat and even their skins used! How can we let this happen to any dog?..... We know it is easier to just put a few coins in a charity tin and your conscience is clear...you do not want to think about it because the thought is too much...but it does not stop it happening. And these dogs need all of us...We all need to stand together, for Freya and her pals, who so desperately would not want to see the abuse she or Edgar suffered happen to any other animal. They are safe now....But please help us fight for the other, bu NOT turning a blind eye. Share the information. However hard, people need to be educated. Then, once we have a STOP on live export, we can continue the fight against the greyhound industry.

The Hardest Goodbye To Our Own Special Beau x

Beau having breakfast with her mum Debbie xx

Beau at her best! xx

 

Goodnight Beau xx

3rd September 2002 - 23rd March 2017

It makes me smile when I recall your favourite items in life, your great love of food, amazing how the smell of those Yorkshire puddings could make you jump off your sofa, even though we thought you were fast asleep! A good stew was always welcome! You even took a shine to a nice bit of trifle or cream cake.

You were never bothered! The night we had fish and chips and as I was talking you were eating the other end of my fish and when you drunk all my coffee with whiskey in!! You had never drunk coffee before that, then dear me, suddenly you did (wonder why)?

The times you went into the garden and would look as though to say, ‘I’ll be in when I want to be in’, all done in your lovely lady like manner. The list could go on.

But what an amazing girl you was and so, so beautiful. You were such a massive part of Dawns life but the only greyhound I knew with three mums, all of which loved you dearly.

Sadly the day came when you had to leave us with the devastating news you had bone cancer. We were both with you and Dawn was right by your side. Your mum Debbie did a 2 hour journey to see you before you were due at the vets. That’s how you affected everyone’s life, believe me, you were and will be loved, always.

In our garden now stands a weeping willow in your memory and which we will watch grow as we did you. By the side stands a statue of two greyhounds, one for you and one for your beloved Gamble, whom you will now be with again.

You’ve left a big hole in our lives and taken a part of our hearts with you.

Miss you always beautiful Beau. xx

Dawn & Beau xx

Field Of Gold

A long way away there’s a field of gold,

Where our loved ones go when they get old

Now this magical place has just a few laws

And that is only for those special paws

You’re free to play and run with grace

Or will you gently take things in your very own pace

Your painless body will dance all night

And your eyes will shine with joy so bright

Our dear Beau, you’re missed so much

If only we were able to feel your touch

But your gentle Gamble will be by your side

As we are sure he was the day you died

You took a piece of our heart and many a tear

Yet we all know you are still so near

And as we imagine you in that field of gold

Where you have gone because you were old

We see your beauty in the days of lark

And I’m sure we hear your gentle bark.

Goodnight Beau xx

A poem for Beau written by Karen xx

Beau & Gamble Memorial xx

My Birthday cake I didn't get to share with you xx

Gamble. The love of Beau's life - Back together again xxx

Duke

It is with sadness and regret that we have to announce the loss of Duke who sadly passed away on Monday 25th March 2013.

To all his friends and the people who loved him
Those who knew him so well and those who he made laugh
All the hearts he touched with his brave and determined willpower
Never complaining about anything, even though he was not only blind but he had so many other problems.
His character of fun and joy won everyone’s affection, who were lucky enough to meet him.
For this beautiful black greyhound’s soul, so precious to us, so special and loving.
He has now left us, so quickly and suddenly, and broken so many hearts.
We have lost a dear friend in you, young man and a hole in our lives.

There will never be another ‘Duke’ X

Karen Schultz….

Edgars Story

Edgar - The sad state of a beautiful greyhound

Edgar came into greyhound rescue in September 2016, rescued from the Romanian circus & was supposed to be all set to be re-homed when he got here, with a possible home awaiting him after being saved from being hung.
On arrival, Edgar was found to have had such devastating problems that he could never be re-homed & would need to spend his life here with specialist care.
Edgar was not only found to have severe mental trauma, of which you could expect from a dog that has been so physically & mentally abused, but he is also totally blind & has a brain injury.
Now, a few months in. that dog that arrived shaking so hard & wouldn't turn his head to face us, crunched up in a corner, who had to be carried from the transport van, so terrified he hadn't even been to the toilet apart from 1 pee for the 5 days it took him to get here, is now actively waiting for his food, stealing treats from our pockets, putting his nose in our faces for a kiss & wanting his belly tickled.... He follows us around his kennel & sits with his bottom in his bed & front paws out with his nose in air, & also now gives a paw & taps back of our legs for a treat if they are not fast enough! He is growing more confidence each day.
That said, when Edgar came, we had to carry this young man to his kennel as he wouldn't walk. Purely due to fear. He still hasn't built up enough courage to leave the safety net of his kennel..this will take time & that is something he will be allowed. Time to to do it all...but in his time..no pushing or forcing him as this could mean a massive setback.
We want Edgar to have as long & as happy a life as he can & he deserves this.
We will never know the true force of the abuse he has suffered but he is only 3 years old & this is the worst case Karen has seen in 20 years.
Over the time Edgar has been with us, one thing has become clear to us, one of the devastating things that has happened to him.
His fur has grown back into a very beautiful coat...apart from the neck area, where someone has tried to hang him. Somehow, this poor greyhound escaped this fate and although it has left him blind possibly through lack of oxygen to the brain & has so much trauma to deal with, at least we know what we are dealing with. And, Edgar will be treated with the respect & total love & care he deserves.
This boy will now have a quality of life....we will make sure he never wants for anything again.

My Little Sister 'Mrs Greyhound' - By Beverly Carroll

My Little Sister – AKA Mrs Greyhound – By Beverly Carroll

(A reply written by Karens’ sister Beverly after reading the article 'Without You Mrs Greyhound’ by ‘Freya – One of our kennel dogs)

Karen and I have enjoyed a close relationship always. Our passion in life has forever been for animals and wildlife.
When Karen was 14 she grew exceptionally tall in a short period of time and she became very lame.
She was diagnosed with the condition ‘slipped epiphysis’ which had badly affected her hip joint and was attributed to rapid growth which had caused the weakening of the joint.
The condition required major surgery and as a consequence of the surgery she was confined to a hospital bed and traction for a period of nine months.
When she eventually returned home, we were informed that she would virtually be required to learn to walk again.
At this time Karen was given a young dog, a greyhound cross whom she named Zak. 
As Karen began the long road to recovery Zak was her constant companion and this was the beginning of her life-long love of Greyhounds!
When Karen left school my mother and I implored her to attend art collage as she is a gifted artist and superb craftswoman.
However, she was adamant that she wanted only to work with and care for animals.
Karen worked with a local vet and his team gaining valuable experience in the care and welfare of animals.
Eventually, over 30 years ago, Karen founded the Greyhound Rescue Charity, which she still runs today.
I met some of the early dogs which she rescued, some of which affected me for many years. I could not believe that these sick and traumatised animals would ever recover. However, Karen with her magic touch, restored not just their health but their trust in the human race once more.
The amount of animals she has loved and cared for is immense. And there have been many occasions when Karen has stayed all night with a sick animal, even sleeping in their kennel or stable (sometimes for weeks). Not only does she rescue dogs, but cats and horses, the other love of her life.
Karen also keeps a vigilant eye on any current animal cruelty case, not just in this country but also Globally. She is involved in many campaigns.
Karen now suffers with back problems and also arthritis …. The result of her childhood condition.
Despite these problems she soldiers on completing many tasks, maintaining stables and kennels on a regular basis. She has been observed building and repairing fences to protect her large animal family whilst balancing on crutches.
Karen in Brave, Inspirational and completely Dedicated.
My love for her and the pride I feel for her is indescribable.

With Love to you Karen – A Tribute From Beverly X

Opal & Gem - The Beginning

Opal and Gem - The Beginning

As many of you know by now, we lost our Greyhound Bobby on the 23rd of May with Bone Cancer.  After 2 months of trying to come to terms with the loss, we made the decision to re-home Opal and Gem, they had been at the rescue for a long time and they both not only deserved a home but they deserved to be re-homed together. So on the 22nd of July it was to be the start of their new life, which was also Gems 10th Birthday.

It is now 6 weeks on, and really what can I say!! Or should that be where do I start! Within the first hour of their arrival, they had both tried to attack a concrete cat that was in the front garden, Opal had belly flopped into the pond and had come out a lovely shade of green along with 2 cut wrists after cracking them on the concrete trying to get out of the pond, and had to wear 2 bandages on her legs for the rest of the day! We had previously put up a baby gate so that they would not be running up and down the stairs and was a bit worried in case it was a bit to low and they would be able to jump over it, But we didn’t need to worry as Gem managed to get stuck underneath it instead! It then started to thunder in, and as we new they where both terrified we thought we could be in for a rough ride! Gem was trying her best to dig to Australia through the lounge carpet and Opal managed to squeeze behind the computer desk! Things would surely only get better?

NO, boy was we wrong! Life with Opal and Gem is what you could call either Interesting, Exhausting or “Oh my God what have we done”! Opal is just like a 3 month old puppy trapped in a 3-year-olds body, she knows absolutely nothing, never mind what anything is! She has eaten 3 tubs of fish food including the plastic containers, drinks every cup of tea or coffee that looks like it isn’t being drunk and is quite partial to the odd glass of Coca Cola ( like she needs anymore E numbers)! The living room is now an activity centre, where the settee and the chairs are used as climbing frames and something to jump off, cushions are ideal for throwing and knocking ornaments off with and my best crystal is great for sharpening your teeth on! They both prefer to wee on the kitchen mats and not on the tiles as they don’t splash their bum on the carpet!! They think that magazines and papers are not for reading, lipstick is better eaten not worn, all teddy bears, duvets and cushions must be de-stuffed at all times and if you jump up and down on the bed long enough it makes you sick!!

Although Opal is the main instigator of the trouble in the house, Gem knows this and uses it to her advantage, we have caught her on a number of occasions stealing things and then quickly laying down and pretending that it wasn’t her! Baseball hats and trainers being her main fetish. I could go on and on and on and on, but I am sure that you are all getting the picture now!

• I have had 2 other Greyhounds off Karen over the many years that I have known her, Gypsy although he was a wonderful dog was completely neurotic, and lived his life at 100mph. And Bobby was the apple of my eye, but he was completely nuts and also suffered throughout his life with illness, he never left out side 24/7, and now their is Opal and Gem – I am now seriously starting to question our friendship!! Seriously though, I have and will always love them all dearly, but it still has not stopped me from learning a few things since these 2 have entered our life:-

1). A bag of sugar CAN cover every square inch of an average sized house!

2). I wasted £20 on a paper shredder

3). Duvets should be thrown on the floor – not folded!

4). Shoes DO NOT come in pairs – its a myth!

5). Mats are a useless form of floor covering!

6). Throw your rubbish directly on the floor – don’t bother with a bag!

7). Don’t bother setting your alarm clock – unless you want to be up before 4am!

8). Canaries can fly across a room, even when in a cage!

9). Poo bags are not big enough when you have 2 dogs!

and finally –

10). The surround sound is now obsolete as it makes everything sound like thunder!

Lola's Story - When Paths Cross

When Guardian angel of rescue meets Guardian angel of owners

Lola came in to greyhound rescue in January 2016 age 2. She had been retired early. She was brought in along with Deacon.

As soon as this little girl jumped from the van, she lent against our legs & she looked up & almost sent a tingle down your spine is the way to describe her!
What a beautiful little lady! Petite, fine, with the usual muscle but such a pretty face.
After her trainer left Karen said to me... Wow! She is adorable! Now, we know they all are... Don't get us wrong but Lola just had something else about her.

She was calming in the kennels, all the other dogs loved her immediately, they all wanted to be around her... She was very spiritual I guess.

As far as being good, well, she never out a paw wrong! Only ever wanting to please.
Karen said to me she thought Lola should come into house as soon as we were able & become a fundraising dog & maybe train up for a PAT dog as she is perfect in every way..... She had fallen in love!!!!

Then...Lola had not been with us very long & along came a lovely email from a lady called Susan Wright, who wanted to adopt Bonnie.

Now, bonnie, another beauty, had only recently lost her kennel mate Harry, very suddenly & tragically at 4 years old due to an old racing injury. Bonnie had taken this bad & was needing special help & care as her & Harry were like an old married couple, being inseparable & were due to be re-homed together. She was not ready to go to a home just at that point & also, she really needed to go in a pair.

The other concern for us was that Susan had been recovering from a brain operation & was a little unsteady on her feet still, walking with a stick...
Whilst we were certain a greyhound would be the perfect help for Susan, it had to be the right on..... So Karen decided it had to be, beloved Lola!

Susan, who had already fallen in love with Bonnie at this time, went with Karens suggestion knowing that it had to be the right match for both of them (dog & owner) & heart cannot rule head... Plus Bonnie was not ready & a little more zoomie!!

This is the beginning of one of the most beautiful relationships between greyhound & owner....a relationship that was shattered with a sudden onset of illness that almost resulted in Susan losing her beloved Lola.

Lola & Susan, along with Susans, husband Ted, went for a short caravan break where Lola had an amazing time, enjoying her walks, new sights & new adventures with her mum.
On returning, a week or so later, Lola suddenly became extremely ill, with severe diarrhea with blood loss & Lola was screaming in pain. The pain & agony Lola was in, shocked Susan, who knowing in the back of her mind Lola was such a young dog, could not think what had struck Lola down like this?
All Lolas' joints had locked up...

Lola was in total agony, this 2 year old ex racer, a young girl with such a zest for life & such a fun loving explorer who loved her food, play & walks, couldn't move. This was not only a terrible situation, but Susan was aware straight away it was life threatening.
Susan rushed Lola to the vets & they treated Lola but the outlook at that point was not good. Susan thought she would lose this precious little lady.
Susan being the kindest & most generous, wonderful person she is, thought, no.... Having suffered serious illness herself with her brain operation & her husband also having had most of his bowel removed due to collitis, she was used to illness & that Lola was too important to her & Ted & no way was this going to happen...
She would do anything she could to save her little girls'life....no matter what!
Susan, she loved her so much. Lola trusted Susan & loved her back just the same.
And that is exactly what Susan did and has continued to do.

After weeks of extensive tests & hundreds (now thousands of pounds) spent on Lola, she was diagnosed with chronic severe colitis... Ironic as Ted had been through this, having most if his bowel removed. Susan knows how painful this was to have alone & so knew she needed to make her life better & pain free & for her to have a good quality of life. She was confident she could do this & as she looked into Lola's eyes, she knew this is what Lola also wanted.
Lola was also diagnosed with severe arthritis (caused by the flare up of the colitis).
Susan knew she needed to get both under control & try to keep them there but decided that veterinary medicines were not going to work alone & that Lola would need extra help.
That in mind she arrange for acupuncture, herbal cortaflex pills, a special diet, & more recently hydrotherapy, where Susan goes in with her!

She did not want Lola to be reliant on chemical drugs that could have a damaging effect on her organs at such a young age & make things much worse.
This lady has looked into everything.
Lola lost a dramatic amount of weight, almost half her body weight & it has been a struggle to build her up especially with what she can & cannot eat!

After a few setbacks with Lola's weight being up & down we are pleased to say that Lola is at a fantastic weight, 25kg & she is enjoying her food, walks & occasional zoomies.
She has to be careful & monitored & life will always be different but as Susan said, Lola was sent to her... It was meant to be. Both Susan & Ted have been through so much illness themselves so she could not have been in better, safer hands.
And, Susan would never have wanted to have been without Lola... She's her baby... Adores her as Lola does Susan...
Susan doesn't put the blame on anyone for Lola's illness.. She is not in anyway bitter.
I spoke to Susan early on in Lola's illness to offer help of which she refused as she just wants to continue to help us & more dogs here.

She does not blame the owner/trainer in any way for the illness but one thing Susan does say & would like to point out is that like many greyhounds, Lola is eager to please & she presumes that would have been the case in her short racing career. Yet Lola's character is to get worked up & upset & stressed as in a lot of greyhounds, as she is sensitive. The other major factor she feels was an issue is the suppression of her seasons for racing... As hormone imbalance has a devastating effect on Lola's condition. Just prior to Lola's illness she had her very first season which we have talking in detail about with Susan as we do feel this could have been the trigger in Lola's illness.

Lola was due to be spayed 3 months after her season but she not well enough to go through such an operation as this may set her back & none of us want that.
She will look at this on her vets advice in the near future but not at the risk of Lola.

We cannot thank Susan enough for everything she has done for Lola, the words ring through our ears when we said, Susan, if we had seen any signs of illness in the short time we had Lola here, we wouldn't have re-homed her...she would have lived her life out her... Susan replied... "I am so glad you didn't see it then & that it happened here.. As I wouldn't have my beautiful little Lola as we were meant to be together". Again.. Karen had made the perfect choice x

And in Karens words, we could not ask for a more precious owner! That lady that emailed to ask if we would consider her for a greyhound as she had seen 'Bonnies story' but she was worried about her age & the fact she'd had a brain operation & walked with a stick.
Well, Susan no longer needs her stick, and, we all know how pets help with any illness, providing it's the right match!

Karen had said from meeting Lola she was 'different' & a very special little greyhound. She went on to say, I don't know what it is about her but they come along once in a blue moon where they are just that extra special in there ways. She is 'spiritual' & she is here for a reason. X
That reason was Susan xxx

Thank you to Susan Wright -A true guardian angel xx not just to Lola but to us.

And thank you to Karen Schultz, who has helped & saved thousands of greyhounds over the past 40 years.
x

Without You Mrs Greyhound

Freya

Freya, our sponsor greyhound at the Boston Lincolnshire Greyhound Rescue, writes a thought provoking piece. Although very literate, you can see that Freya has had some help from one of the shelter’s long-standing rescuers.

It was some many years ago, so we were told when a young woman of 21 and her friend, Phil, couldn’t stand to see what was happening to our breed anymore…. So they decided to do something about it and take on the racing industry….Now this was not initially to end greyhound racing back then…that was more of a pipe dream. It was to have some kind of welfare for the dogs and something for them after they had finished racing.

Also it was, and still isn’t, about the running in greyhound racing – it’s always been about the ‘bends’ on the track that have caused injuries to these dogs, that have resulted in many being put to sleep before their time for things that could have been sorted, had owners wanted to spend money and time.  But unlike whippet racing, which is more of a fun day with no bends and not a gambling night, these dogs were being put at serious risk. This young lady and her partner Phil had to do something. They could not stand back and watch this happening.

And so it began. A life of total devastation, heartbreak, reward, fights, her life being threatened, starving herself to feed her beloved greyhounds. But did any of this put her off? NO! She was our mum – our saving grace – and although a very talented lady in many other ways, who could have made her fortune in so many other walks of life, she had only one focus! A vocation. GREYHOUND RESCUE.  She was known as the ‘Original Greyhound Lady’ or ‘Mrs Greyhound’ as the years went on.

The thing is, as years have gone by, that is what happened…. A face without a name. Don’t get me wrong, Mrs Greyhound is very well respected in the rescue world but it suddenly became apparent to us, she has no name anymore…. Even the Argos delivery guys call her Mrs Greyhound!

Yes the majority of people want greyhound racing to end but what happens next?  We all know it needs to be done in a way that means we are not placing them in further danger. We don’t want an influx of hundreds of thousands of dogs having to be destroyed either because it ended suddenly. Or are we not as bad? Innocents being destroyed, dumped, exported? All these things that need saying and thinking about…

We are on the same side but I have loved my breed and to watch what could happen to my friends is devastating to me and all of us who are so lucky to have come into rescue or to have found a forever home. It frightens me that until we get a stop on export, we still have an enormous worry on our hands.

Karen and Phil set out on this journey to save these dogs from a devastating fate at the time. Unfortunately, Phil left this world far too soon, he passed away young leaving Karen faced with continuing the journey alone without her pal. She has done this with a quiet respect throughout the rescue world.

Phil and Karen started this rescue all those years ago. Sadly Phil is not here to see what Karen has achieved but we all know that he is watching over her and the dogs, as it was a vocation to him as much as Karen. Phil was a big part of Karen’s life and a big part of the beginning of this story. Though Karen thinks of him often and quietly, he will always remain a big part of Greyhound Rescue, Boston, Lincolnshire.

Karen would never let these dogs down. It is a vocation to her. Karen would let NO animal down and take no glory in any of it. She is a very kind person with the biggest heart you would ever know. She has gone without food herself over the years to feed her rescue dogs. Everything this lady has and everything she has been for is for us. Nobody has looked into our eyes and seen our souls more than her.

She’s a thinker… She has fought trainers, owners & the racing industry in her time and anyone that has every hurt an animal to be fair!  She has done many TV documentaries, with people like Donal MacIntyre etc. but nothing frightens her more than what could happen next, with live export, because until this is totally banned and stopped, full stop, and there is a controlled plan to end greyhound racing totally, then think about this. Please plan our future before you are part of our deaths.

Of course, she and Phil struggled to fundraise but knew they had to do what it took to help this, at that time especially, the most abused breed along with the beagle. Well, they did what they had to do, taking dogs in the most horrendous state you have ever seen…They did race nights at the track back then as that is what they had to do in those days. They also believed and she still does that to save us, it is better to have the trainers and owners on side than against. BUT that comes with the years of experience of knowing them.

For those who do not think things have moved forward in the fight against the racing industry, they have…. It’s still not enough? Agreed… We still need to stop the abuse, drugging, overbreeding and all the other terrible things this wonderful breed suffers…. But one thing has been noted over the years… For every battle won…another begins… So are we winning the End of Racing? Maybe we are? Yes? And is that a good thing? We would like to say Yes…..That is why we started this fight, right?

But then the next battle begins… Exporting to Spain, Pakistan & China. You see the breeders still want their money… As do the owners…. Do not blame the trainers only… It is no longer black & white. Spain is a very cruel country for abuse! Pakistan too! China… They boil them alive and use them for meat, and also use their skins!

So… Are we winning? These are questions she constantly asks herself. Are we just fearing greyhound racing going underground now as we once were when they bring an end to racing? OR, is there now an even bigger problem?

She will always put her neck on the line for us. Because she is ‘Mrs Greyhound’.  We could not have survived without the love she has shown us. We do not want to go for meat and be boiled alive, or exported to a worse life, nor do we want to be dumped or sent underground. She did not give up her entire life to let us go to a worse place. If this were the case…..It will be the end for Karen Schultz, our mum, but to the world….known just as ‘Mrs Greyhound’ – she has no identity anymore.

We thank our mum. We need her. Please don’t let this be the end.

Thank you from all of us for all your support over the years.

Freya. xxx

Two Tails of the Unexpected

By Christine Taylor

I had never had anything to do with greyhounds, never liked them in fact, considering them to be all bony and skinny, half starved and not at all cuddly or friendly (with the risk of getting reported for cruelty to the RSPCA). As I was working five hours a day, I had no intention of getting – dare I say it – a Labrador, until I retired around 2018. Boy, was I in for a surprise! In June 2008, I went with my daughter and son-in law to the Lincolnshire show. After wandering round we spotted the Lincolnshire Greyhound Rescue Stand. Being dog lovers, they headed straight to it. I followed reluctantly.

Upon arrival I was ‘accosted ‘by a large black bony, skinny brown eyed hound called Lark, who decided to take the weight off her feet by leaning heavily against my legs. As I looked down, and into those gorgeous brown eyes, I did not realise just what an impact she was to have on me. On returning home, and for the next two days, I could not forget those eyes. On the Monday I phoned Julie, who had been in charge of the rescue stand to see if Lark was still with her. She was and so we went to meet her properly at Julie’s and that, as they say, was that. I arranged to collect her two weeks later, after the Waddington Air Show in July. She had somehow seen me as her new mum! We settled in together in our new life right away. She was wonderful, priceless, in fact.

We enjoyed seven beautiful years together, although 18 months after she came to me, I had a heart attack and had to give up my job. From then on, we were inseparable… where I went, Lark went, whenever possible. Everyone who met Lark adored her, including several young pups who though she wasn’t their mummy and would go underneath her tummy looking for a feed! She just stood there until they moved, never making any fuss, or trying to harm them in any way. She was a right little mother hen. Lark had a couple of health problems over the years, but was never any trouble, taking everything in her stride.

Last November, Lark was diagnosed with cancer. She was started on a course of treatment, but sadly, it was to no avail. I was to lose her. My gorgeous, friendly, happy girl had to go away, leaving me bereft, heartbroken, and totally unable to function without her here. All those tears for her, even though I had never liked the breed – until she picked me up. On the 10 December 2015, knowing that I had a lot of things saved for a greyhound rescue charity,

“From then on, we were inseparable…where I went, Lark went, whenever possible.”

“Last November, Lark was diagnosed with cancer…  My gorgeous, friendly, happy girl had to go away, leaving me bereft, heartbroken…”

I came across a piece of paper that I was given several years ago, by the ladies of North Yorkshire & East Lincolnshire Greyhound Rescue. I decided to phone and see if the items would be of use to them. I spoke to a lady called Dawn. We had a nice chat and she arranged to collect it all on the Saturday afternoon. This she did and whilst here I told her of Lark’s health problem and that I was worried about getting her into the car that Wednesday to take her to the vets. On the Monday, Dawn phoned me and said that they had been discussing Lark and her illness. Dawn offered to take us to the vets because her car had a ramp at the back. On the way, we were talking about a hound which had been returned. His name was Snowie. Little did I know what was going to happen next!

On arrival at the vets, and after being told the awful result about Lark, what a blessing it was that Dawn was in the waiting room. I was in bits. The vet was very supportive, but had it not been for Dawn, I really don’t know what I would have done. She was more like an old friend than someone I had only met once before. So caring and compassionate, I could not have wished for anyone better. She ‘phoned me several times during the next couple of weeks, just to see how I was. My daughter became very concerned about my state of mind and on Sunday 3 January 2016 she phoned me and asked if I would like to go over to the kennels to see the dogs which were for re-homing. When we got there the first dog that Dawn asked if I would like to say hello to was Snowie. As soon as she brought him in the room I knew! We played with him for 45 minutes and he was perfect. Even my daughter and son-in-law fell for him. We were shown the rest of the dogs in the kennels, but it had happened again. Snowie had picked me. I said right away that he was the one and Dawn delivered him on Wednesday 6 January. He made himself at home at once, taking himself for a tour. It is now 17 January and it is as though he has been here forever. He is gorgeous, with again, those beautiful brown eyes. A super boy of two years and four months, a wonderful credit to the greyhound breed. He is happy, playful, lively, affectionate, wanting nothing more than his meals and an excessive amount of cuddles, having a five minute playtime at bedtime, before settling down on my bed beside me for the night. Since he came here, to his forever home, I still feel very sad at times, but he seems to know, despite being a baby. When I am a bit down he always comes to get a big cuddle and manages to pull me round again. I still love and miss Lark terribly but I have, until writing this, managed to keep the tears away. Snowie has given me the will to go on. I feel so privileged to have been chosen by these two magnificent dogs, to be their long-term ‘mummy’ and, though I have only had Snowie for 11 days, I will do my utmost to give him as much as he will give me. I only hope we will have very many happy years ahead of us. As my daughter said after we first saw Snowie, when you put all of these events together, it is as if it was meant to be. For anyone considering buying or re-homing a dog, I would say every time, re-home one of these magnificent hounds and you will be rewarded in spades, with their gentle loving, lovable, friendly, adoring natures. I was asked to write a few words about life with a greyhound. As usual, I have got carried away with the subject. If you want to know what it is like, my advice is, re-home one. You will never regret it. I promise you.

IN MEMORY OF LARK

Wolfie's Story - The Beginning

Having Never met a feral dog whilst running the rescue, Wolfie was quite a challenge – because, feral she was.

On arrival at the kennels, I was so shocked to see this small blue greyhound with a back on her like a sheep would have and the thickest coat I had ever seen, she was almost undetectable as a greyhound.

Looking so terrified, her eyes were bulging as she backed off everyone. My thoughts at this time were to not put her in the kennels but to actually have her in the house with my other bitches, so hopefully, eventually she would come to trust people and gain confidence because of all the other girls indoors and follow suit as to how the others interacted with myself etc.

So the process began. It was weeks and weeks of patience and quietness. Wolfie was so obviously scared from her past, so frightened of the outside world , yet she was such a kind and gentle dog, wonderful to watch with our other dogs. This made it even more upsetting to watch her fear.

In the first weeks we would let her out with the others and when it was time for them to come in, (of course mine came in no trouble), but with Wolfie, we had to stand in the middle of the garden whilst she crawled right around us and then darted indoors, in a corner, usually with one of the other dogs for safety.

The first summer arrived and while all the dogs were out I would go and sit on the grass and of course my girls would lay near me. Then, gradually, Wolfie slowly was beginning to think she was missing out and began to lay closer and closer tp me, looking more relaxed day by day. I was beginning to get the kindest, most loving greyhound into my life. One of which was to be with me by my side for the next 20 years.

We managed to get her weight down and got rid of her awful thick coat and she was now a beautiful glossy perfect little blue greyhound – and she was wonderful with us…But it was many years before she would attempt to greet a stranger.

The rescue started at Selby, then we moved to York and we are now in Boston, Lincolnshire and many of our girls died through old age but Wolfie has been with us all the time and we have only just lost herat 22 years old. She became the perfect dog., not a bad bone in her body, that is why we thought it fitting to hold Wolfie in memory by calling our building project the ‘Wolfie Appeal’. In honour of her fight to come to terms with life again after her horrendous beginning life. You see, what we did find out is that dear Wolfie actually saw all her litter companions shot in front of her, so she had a heart of a lion to be able to accept anything else in her life.

God Bless you Wolfie, you are greatly missed.

Karen Schultz X