Greyhounds on the Agility Course?

Having a dog is always more fun if you participate in some doggy activities together. Many people are unaware that greys do compete in agility trials! In fact, more do it all the time. Did you spot the greyhound in the video?

Agility consists of a sort of obstacle course: jumps, tunnels, A-frames, see-saws are set up in ever-varying patterns. The idea of course is speed and accuracy, but most people and their dogs do it simply for the fun of it. It is unusual in that is is a sport to do WITH your grey - unlike lure coursing where you are watching your grey do the work from afar. The classes teach both of you - your grey to handle the obstacles and commands, and you to be the leader . . .


If you have a grey that is high energy, agility may be a great activity. It requires a restless dog to use his brain. It also enforces your position as leader, and enforces obedience. Your dog must learn to read very subtle cues in your body language as you follow her through the course - for instance the direction you turn your shoulders or direct your sight. You also of course use vocal commands.

Several local organizations do agility classes and participate in trials. Here are just a few:

Lucky Dog
Two locations in Colorado Springs.

Friendship Academy
I have taken my border collie to these folks, and was very impressed not only with the classes, but with the trainer's skill in dog obedience. Really qualified trainers, and great classes.


In preparing your grey for a greyt first experience, work on some basic obedience, like sit (if possible!), stay, come. It will save some time and frustration once you get to class.

NOTE: If your grey is reluctant to sit, it may be painful - don't force it. Just substitute a lie down. Also, a good dog trainer will be aware of this issue in greys.
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Meet Black Horse Design

There are many greyt jewelry and art sites, and we plan to profile some for you here! Here is a favorite for Susie: Black Horse Design. Working in their own unique style, Black Horse features some beautiful hand-made jewelry, much of it based on beloved animals they have known.

Check out the greyhound collection - it's to die for. They also carry fun stuff for cat/horse/celtic/nature lovers, and carry some for Irish Wolfhound/Deerhound/Saluki/Whippet people too. They have new designs for donkeys and mules.

But we promise the greyhound line will take your breath away. . . Read more!

Renaissance Faire Time Again!

This weekend marks the third in this year's Renaissance season. Colorado Greyhound Adoption occupies a permanent booth. We need volunteers for ideally 3-4 hour shifts, although any time is much appreciated.

Our booth is comfortable and stays cool and shady in the heat. The dogs just lie around on beds and look elegant and gorgeous. We humans enjoy the atmosphere and the company. There is no admissions charge for a volunteer accompanied by a greyhound, and you are welcome to park in the 'employees' parking area, which cuts down considerably on the walk to your car. It is not difficult to leave the booth for a break, see some of the faire, get some food - leaving your dog behind in good hands.

You are not alone at the booth - several volunteers are scheduled in a slot. You will be sitting, and talking to visitors about the greys, about adopting and about fostering. It's easy and fun!

If you have never experienced the Faire, this is a good way to see it cheaply! Volunteers are expected to dress in the Renaissance spirit - for advice contact Julie and Susie, and please be aware that there is on-site costume rental that is very inexpensive, and an ideal solution if you are nervous about the idea of dressing - they will do it for you. Also, Kevin and CGA keep a number of great costumes, contact Kevin for information on those.

Please consider signing up for a Saturday or Sunday shift! We do ask that you sign up ahead of time. Bring your grey(s) and/or a foster! Contact Kevin to sign up. See more info for volunteers at http://www.scrye.com/~kevin/faire-faqs.html

The Faire will continue every weekend through August 4. For more on the Colorado Renaissance Festival - http://www.coloradorenaissance.com/

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Keep Your Dog COOL!

While taking your grey out to events this summer, leave the house prepared to keep your dog cool. Heat stroke is something that can happen very fast, and if difficult to stop can kill your dog. Greyhounds are especially susceptible to heat stroke.

Dogs at risk of heat stroke register body temps above 102.5° F. At around 109° F, organ damage begins and your dog is seriously in danger of death. Carry a thermometer and some lubricant to check temp (rectally for accuracy!).

Two things contribute to a dog's temperature rising to a dangerous level: heat, and humidity. Heat is more difficult to expel in a humid environment. Although that isn't usually an issue in Colorado weather, do keep aware of it as a factor.

Dogs do not have sweat glands as we do, except for a small few in the pads of their feet. They pant to expel heat through their mouths. They also lose some heat through their ears. Excessive panting means muscles are working hard - and that can cause the dog to actually work up heat!

If your dog is panting excessively and for a long time, keep your eyes open. Try to keep the dog's paws on a cool surface - not hot pavement. Carry a spray bottle, and mist the dog regularly, especially on ears, belly, throat, and under-chest.

If after you have provided shade, mist, water, etc. for your dog he continues to pant hard and long, and refuses to drink, you may want to consider getting professional medical intervention. Signs like stumbling, disorientation or seizure are an extreme emergency.

Leave home with a plan for providing drinking water. Freeze it in the bowl the night before for easy transport. Take along a thermometer and spray bottle. Take a washcloth or towel which can be wetted and used to wipe down the dog. Some folks swear by "cool coats" as the one pictured above. This one comes from WildThingsForGreys.com . . . and Sighthound Gear also carries some nice ones. The object is to wet down these coats and visors and put them on the dog. Have fun, but do it armed with information and keep a vigilant eye on your dog's condition on a hot day. Read more!