Greyhound Penny, on the way to find a new home!

The Retired Greyhound Trust - a national charity dedicated to finding homes for ex-racing greyhounds - has expanded recently, with the opening of a new branch in the West Midlands.

The branch - Perry Barr Retired Greyhound Trust - will focus on finding homes for those dogs retiring from racing at Perry Barr Greyhound Racing Stadium. Set up by greyhound devotee Alison Bandurak, with the help of Perry Barr Stadium's promoter Maurice Buckland, the branch is based near Wolverhampton. It has kennels which will offer the opportunity for prospective pet owners to meet greyhounds that need a new home.

"We are very excited about running this branch of the Retired Greyhound Trust. We have got off to a good start having homed 20 dogs since February and, with a range of greyhounds available, we are in a better position to find one that will suit the lifestyle of potential new owners," said branch co-ordinator Alison Bandurak.

Contrary to popular misconceptions greyhounds make wonderful pets being ideal for both individuals and families of all ages. As racing careers are short - with the majority retiring at the age of three or four - greyhounds can live to up to ten years in retirement making excellent long-term pets.

Their needs are the same as other varieties of dogs, they are gentle and adaptable and in terms of exercise will be happy with two short walks each day.

Maurice Buckland, promoter at Perry Barr Greyhound Stadium commented: "Setting up a specially dedicated homefinding scheme for ex-racing greyhounds is something we have been considering for some time.

Bonus

With Alison's enthusiasm it is wonderful to be able to get a scheme - with the added bonus of considerable kennel space - up and running. To support the new scheme we held a fundraising evening on Sunday 20 April at our Easter Cup and raised over £800 which will contribute towards the welfare and upkeep of greyhounds in the kennels while suitable homes are being found."

Those wishing to find out more about Perry Barr Retired Greyhound Trust or providing a home for a greyhound should call Perry Barr Greyhound Stadium on 0121 356 2324, homefinder Nicola on 01902 569 670, homefinder John on 01922 412 140. Alternatively, the Retired Greyhound Trust cam be contacted on 0870 444 0673 or by visiting www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

Eddy, a retired greyhound, pictured with Aaron Wilshire, homefinder John Dace,
Morgan Dace, Tom and Ryan Jobburns. As the retired Greyhound Trust expands in
the West Midlands, Eddy helped to publicise the scheme