A greyhound’s life after racing

WHAT happens to greyhounds after their track or coursing career has ended? It’s been a difficult question to address in the past but more and more the breed is becoming popular as a pet.
Rover Rescue, based at Shanaway Road in Ennis, has been involved in taking pound dogs since 2008 but until recently, greyhounds weren’t readily available for adoption as pets.
Now, thanks to the co-operation of Frankie Coote and Ennis Pound, Deirdre Ryan has co-founded a group with Eileen Twomey called Clare Greyhound Project.
“We aim to build alliances with rescue groups all over Europe who will get on board in helping us find these loving pets caring homes. Rover Rescue has already secured supports from greyhound rescues in the UK, as well as Italy and Sweden. Due to the recent implementation of the Pet Passport Scheme between the UK and Ireland, it can now cost up to €400 to get a dog to the UK. This is due to the necessity for the rabies vaccination. In addition to this, there is also a delay of a month before dogs can be moved out of Ireland,” said Deirdre.
Recently she received a cheque for €1,850 from Michelle Fuller from D’Barber Shop in Ennis., the proceeds of her fundraising efforts in the Flora Mini Marathon.
“I am overwhelmed by the generosity of customers and staff from D’Barber shop, as well Copy Stop in Ennis who printed Michelle’s t-shirt for the event and sponsorship cards.
“Thanks to Michelle and the people who gave so generously, this money raised will help geyhounds like Lilly, our first greyhound resident at Rover Rescue, to have a wonderful life as a pet, where she can leave her working racing days behind her for good.”