A campaign has been launched by Oxford Stadium to shine a light on retired greyhounds and educate people about the key requirements of owning an ex-racing dog.
The Cowley venue has partnered with volunteers at the Retired Greyhound Trust’s Oxford branch, its trainers and current owners with a view to encouraging more families in the county to adopt a greyhound when its career ends.
Dogs in search of homes will be paraded around the stadium’s terraces on race nights to meet prospective owners and a ‘Retired Greyhound of the Week’ will be nominated by the Trust’s volunteers.
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The move will be underpinned by the Greyhound Board of Great Britain’s (GBGB) Greyhound Retirement Scheme (GRS).
Launched in September 2020, the scheme safeguards the future of all racing greyhounds when they retire via a bond, paid jointly by owners and the GBGB, which covers costs associated with homing.
Wayne Mazey, a volunteer with his wife Liz Mazey at the Retired Greyhound Trust, said ex-racers make perfect pets.
He continued: “Contrary to belief, greyhounds are very low maintenance and require only two short walks each day, a comfortable bed to sleep in and plenty of love and attention.
“They are a cost-effective alternative for families in search of a four-legged friend too, with adoption costing only £150 which includes a veterinary inspection and some essentials to get you started such as a collar and a lead.
“With the stadium’s support, there is no reason why we can’t see more retired greyhounds patrolling Oxford’s streets than ever before, which would be a wonderful sight.”
Since launching the GRS, the GBGB has distributed £2.5 million to over 120 approved homing centres in the UK and supported the rehoming of over 6,000 retired greyhounds.
Oxford Stadium MD Kevin Boothby said: “The average dog will retire from racing aged four to five, but a typical greyhound can live up to 14 years of age.
“It is therefore essential we take full responsibility for these magnificent animals in retirement by finding them loving homes where they can enjoy a healthy and comfortable life after racing.
“At the same time, we are mindful of the ongoing animal welfare crisis in the UK which has been magnified by the cost-of-living, Covid-19 and the purchase of lockdown puppies and breeders operating for their own financial interest.
“Our campaign will highlight the regulation and responsibilities of owning a retired greyhound, with a view to matching responsible, educated and loving people with our wonderful dogs.”
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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.
Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.
Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk
Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1
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