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The other day I was speaking on the phone with a woman who had adopted one of our retired greyhounds. I found myself defending the greyhound industry and for something we not only love but is our life and livelihood. That became very uncomfortable. I realized there is nothing wrong in what my husband I do for a living, so I said my piece, and she thanked me for an insight into our industry she had not heard before. Our conversation set me thinking.
It occurred to me that we, the breeders of these fine animals, seem to be on the defensive a great deal of the time – be it in a grocery store overhearing the conversations of animal rights people, seeing yet another slanted story on T.V., or hearing waiting room talk at the vet’s office. One of the biggest issues seems to be the greyhounds’ “life after racing”. Frequently, the word “rescue” is used, and this reflects directly onto the breeders. I decided it was time for a greyhound breeder and farm operator to put her two cents in. Just maybe my message will be heard by someone out there we might take a different stance toward our industry.
My husband started out in college studying political science and soon decided it was not for him. His pull was toward training horses, and later, dogs. This is his gift and his passion.
Animals became our life. We love, care for, and train these wonderful animals. But it has not been easy for many, many years. We’ve had to put almost all income back into caring, feeding, and training, into equipment and land, and giving our four-legged friends the best of veterinarian care. We have made constant sacrifices for our business because it is our life, not just a job.
Here are some facts. Greyhounds are superb athletes who are the fastest sprinting dog in the world and are revered for their natural abilities. The National Greyhound Association is one of the best at policing and weeding out undesirables from participating on any level. As in any industry, there have been “bad apples”. Once discovered, these are dealt with and are barred for life from registering or racing a greyhound.
For those of you unaware, here’s an example of the life of a breeder and farm operator. Before we breed we research the bloodlines of both the intended female and sire so that the pups will have the best qualities for what we are looking to produce. We spend top dollar in stud fees. The female has the best of care, food and necessary worming and vaccines before she is bred. The pups, once weaned, are given the highest priced puppy food as well as an even more extensive vaccination program than is normally recommended and a lot of T.L.C. and socialization. They grow up together on the farm enjoying the company of their playful littermates. They are housed in log runs with insulated, large dog houses where they enjoy all the exercise a dog could want or need for their physical development. We take great pleasure in watching them run up and down the runs chasing each other to the end and back. They then are introduced to the training program and an oval track where their natural instincts continue to blossom and they do what they love to do—run. When matured and ready they go on to the regular race track where they also receive the best of care.
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THE OTHER SIDE OF THE STORY |
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Phone: 254.968.0487 jpeck@htcomp.net |
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David and Janele Peck 2274 Private Rd. 935 Stephenville, Tx. 76401-8754 |
