Since the day you laid eyes on your pup, what made you think of buying him out of the pet shop? What made you think of adopting such a cute angel in disguise? Well, some might say the cuteness of the pup ran over them, that before they were able to control their impulse, they have bought and adopted the dog of their choice and welcomed him into their lives.
Not all dogs, however, are at the top of the “cuteness” list yet they still give you the unconditional love we so endear in out dogs. One example is the Greyhound.
“Greyhounds are extremely mannerly and sociable,” says Barry Coleman, who runs the Irish Greyhound Board’s adoption programme. “They are also quiet and clean around the home. But the one thing that makes them stand out from other breeds is the fact they are very affectionate — and a little cheeky at times.
Well, for those who have taken care of Greyhounds (especially the Irish), you would very much agree with the description given to the breed, right? However, winning over the affection of people can be a very difficult thing for them to do.
Before, the rate of adoption for this breed has not been that satisfactory. However, through proper information dissemination, and of course, word of mouth, the adoption rate has dramatically increased. They are getting more popular in the European countries, especially in Ireland. Imagine, people are very much willing to pay fifty thousand Euros simply to own a greyhound?! It might be a very frivolous idea for most of us, but some simply wouldn’t mind the cost to own this most prized pup.
“Once they retire, they would prefer a sofa than going out for a run,” says Coleman. “So they actually don’t need much exercise. That makes them great for people who work, as greyhounds are happy to sleep for much of the day.”
“The public perception is they wouldn’t make a good pet. But we try to create an awareness that they can make a great companion. They are so placid and loveable.”
Well, what are you waiting for? Call or visit your nearest pet adoption center and see for yourself. Who knows? You might just find yourself running away from the place to escape the “cheekiness” of the situation you’re in to.