A Greyhound

WOOFSTOCK 2012

2012-02-18T00:28:00.002-05:00

Editor's Notes:
I have it on very good authority there will be a general blessing of the hounds at about 11:45 at which the Married Monk will be presiding. Brianna and I will also be vending our prints of Vintage Greyhound Images.

Mention you read the Greyhound Magic Blog and you will receive a free 4 by 5 postcard size print.

From the GPA of Central Florida Website

WOOF-STOCK FESTIVAL 2012

COME JOIN THE FUN!!!!!
Gleason Park &
Indian Harbour Beach Recreational Facility
1233 Yacht Club Blvd
Indian Harbour Beach, Florida
(just north of the Eau Gallie Cswy &
So. Patrick Dr intersection)

Sunday, February 19, 2012
11:30 - 4
Activities planned include Canine Contests, "Couch Potato Sprint", Nail Clipping, Used Book Sale, Hound Vendors, Raffles, Live Auction, Bake Sale, Ice Cream Social and more.....

Greyhound Watchdog Saves the Night

2012-01-14T22:03:00.000-05:00

A couple days after Christmas, we woke up to our living room window being open, the blinds crooked, and the screen missing. Two lap top computers were piled on top of the love seat. Someone had been in our home while we were asleep! Yes very unnerving! This is part of the reason that I have taken so long to write about it.

I must have left a window unlocked and the would be their easily slipped it open, removed the stool inside and used it as a boost into the apartment.

Thank God that no one was hurt and that nothing was stolen.

We are guessing that our fearless Wolf wandered out to the living room to check out the noises only he heard. Imagine you are a skinny, scrawny junkie looking for a quick boost and a large hound comes trotting out to you piling up three year old lap top computers. In the dark all you see is a BIG dog-- maybe stretching and yawning while showing a little teeth.

OUT THE WINDOW! Dropping three plastic lighters with your finger prints on them along with a little bit of DNA as well. It won't be long before the Melbourne Police come knocking on your cardboard box if you're already in the system.

The important thing here is, Nobody was hurt. Nothing was stolen. I double check all the doors and windows before turning in each night.

Wolf Jan 2012

2012-01-14T21:52:00.000-05:00

Just a couple gratuitous greyhound pics.

Happy Howl-a-days

2011-12-24T12:42:00.002-05:00

Who Needs Travellers!! Ain't got no troubles or worries here!

2011-11-14T02:21:00.000-05:00

New Addition to the Greyhound Gallery that is our home

2011-11-07T17:38:00.000-05:00

We were wandering through one of the nicer thrift stores here in town and came across this four feet tall three feet wide picture of a greyhound named Hamlet. We have not been able to find anything about him/her but we are assuming that this was an actual hound. Racing? Show? Anyone know anything?

Anyway, it's going to look greyt on the living room wall.

Just some recent photos of Wolf

2011-11-01T18:21:00.000-04:00

Fifty-seven channels and nothing on.....

My most favorite place in the world

Canis Major

2011-09-14T00:59:00.000-04:00

CANIS MAJOR

by Robert Frost

The great Overdog

That heavenly beast

With a star in one eye

Gives a leap in the east.

He dances upright

All the way to the west

And never once drops

On his forefeet to rest.

I'm a poor underdog,

But to-night I will bark

With the great Overdog

That romps through the dark.

Robert Frost had to be writing about the Greyhound. The greatest of all dogs!

Sandhill Cranes

2011-09-09T19:58:00.000-04:00

One of the most majestic birds I have ever seen. This picture was taken from our car window in our old neighborhood

From Racing Greyhound to Service Dog

2011-09-08T14:11:00.001-04:00

Retired From Racing, Greyhound Has New Job - Video - WMUR New Hampshire

I wounder if Carey Theil and her husband Christine Dorchak will object to this.
TOO BAD!

WHITEY BULGER FINALLY CAUGHT

2011-06-24T01:08:00.001-04:00

Let the fun begin-- extradition?
Trial?
Answers?

I have always found Bulger an interesting character. I'm glad he was finally caught thought I must confess, I would love to read a biography of their time on the run. What they did, why and how they kept hidden all these years.

One of the most amazing things have ever seen

2011-06-05T17:49:00.003-04:00

Florida has a variety of wildlife most of which is quite beautiful. I usually feed the fish and turtles in the pond next to the swimming pool.

Then, a couple weeks ago, after walking the dog one morning, my wife called to me from outside yelling that I should bring my phone. "Hurry up!" Who am I to disobey? What I saw was a amazing. Beautiful. Something I never witnessed before.

Three weeks later, in spite of being in a high traffic area, the mound remains undisturbed, right at the end of my sidewalk. More latter.....

SO... What's Wolf been up to?

2011-06-05T17:33:00.000-04:00

As you can see, he has been QUITE busy.

To All My Friends In New England

2011-01-15T00:04:00.001-05:00

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

Random Expressions

2011-01-14T00:55:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!

2011-01-03T01:36:00.000-05:00

Been a while since we have posted pictures of Wolfie, so here are a few of him doing what he does best.

Here are a couple of Wolfie's friends the Sand Hill Cranes. They get all riled up when the neighborhood dogs come anywhere near them. Except for Wolfe. They just watch him, but no squawking, or posturing.

The pics are taken with my cell phone so they are not of the best quality, nor can I really get a decent close up.

Thinking about old friends

2010-11-30T14:06:00.000-05:00

Been a while since we've posted. Lots going on but nothing that we really want to blog about. However, we saw this cartoon and it made us think of the Keeper of the Hounds.

The Retirement Village People

2010-09-23T01:23:00.000-04:00

Yep

2010-09-23T00:42:00.001-04:00

I Spoke Too Soon... Extremists on the rampage... again

2010-08-18T22:34:00.011-04:00

So much for my summer boredom. Yesterday I was complaining that I had too much time on my hands. Today my wife alerted me to current lobbying activity by extremist Cary Theil (pronounced teal like the color..) here in Florida. Unlike the Massachusetts effort to end greyhound racing, this time Theil and his housemate crazy Christine Dorchak who have used their grey2k causes as their personal piggy-bank to fund their lavish lifestyle are joining forces with the track owners, who want to nix live racing and focus on poke and slot machines.

One of Theil and Dorchak's largest donors is the Humane Society of the United States which cons old ladies out of their social security checks by making them think the HSUS actually runs animal shelters-- which is not true at all.

In Massachusetts, greyhound racing was strictly supervised. I visited three different kennels, all of which were spotless. The hounds were happy and healthy. When let out of their crates they were overjoyed to see their handlers and were eager to play with them. Abused hounds do not act like this. To improve the quality of racing greyhounds in Florida, bay all means... lobby the legislature to adopt the standards that Massachusetts had!

But to end racing altogether, will cause the breed as we know (and LOVE) it to become extinct. I have seen greyhounds bred for show-- and the temperament is so very different.

If the hounds are being abused-- by all means lets improve the regulations that govern their care. But to cave into the extremists is dangerous. They will NOT stop at greyhound racing. Don't believe me?? Look here. Its a photo of grey2k vice president Christine Dorchak protesting with PETA at the New England Aquarium. To save the whales? Free the dolphins? Nope. She wants them to stop serving fish and chips in the cafeteria.

The extremist animal rights activists have an agenda. I'm okay with that. We are ALL entitled to our viewpoint. Let us know up front that your ultimate goal is to have us all get rid of our companion animals, and to become total vegans.

OH-- sorry I forgot. The end justifies the means.

Too Much Time On My Hands

2010-08-18T01:09:00.007-04:00

Gratuitous cute greyhound shot to catch your eye and give you the impression that this blog entry might be interesting. Sorry to disappoint you. No food recall, no fundraiser, no grey2k or peta alert. Just a crazy greyhound lover with too much time on his hands.

You know the song.

I'm so tired of losin', I've got nothin to do
And all day to do it.
So, I go out crusin', but I've got no place to go
And all night to get there.
Is it any wonder I'm not a criminal?
Is it any wonder I'm not in jail?

Is it any wonder I've got too much time on my hands?
Ticking away with my sanity.

Styx

Okay. It's August in Florida. It's H.O.T.
I do not want to go outside to do anything at all. I'm even waiting until the sun sets to go swimming.
It's too hot to drive to the office up in Titusville. I'm saving money by staying home. Money on gas and on the electric bill by not cooling the office. I'm trying to convince myself I'm "working" from home.
Here you can see the results of my past couple of days "work".

I think even Wolf is bored. Or maybe just hot. Just out of sight to the right is a fan.

Yeah! 1, 2, 3, FOUR pillows, one blanket, two bones, stuffed bunny and a hound.

When we bought this house, I was certain that there would be room for a book shelf and an easy chair in the master bedroom. As it turns out, the room isn't as big as I thought it was.

Wolf really likes Judge Judy. I think she's a bitch.

Wolf is annoyed that I am interrupting Judge Judy.

He got sick of having his picture taken and went to his bed for a nap.

And I tell my wife SHE is obsessed with the hound.....

What's that? A treat?

NO! It's that damned camera again.

GREYHOUND FRIENDS FUNDRAISER FRAMINGHAM MASS

2010-08-11T15:50:00.009-04:00

Just received the following from Louise Coleman from Greyhound Friends in Eastern Massachusetts. If you're in the area, be sure to help them with this Doughraiser.

Note: this is only at the Framingham Massachusetts Uno's location listed below.
------

Visit Uno's

in Framingham

on Saturday, August 14

and support Greyhound Friends!

Please participate in Uno's "Doughraiser" for Greyhound Friends on August 14, 2010. From 11:00 a.m. to closing (12:30 a.m.) a portion of your total purchase will benefit Greyhound Friends.

70 Worcester Road
Framingham, MA 01701
508-620-1816

Dear Friends,

Uno's in Framingham has generously offered to support Greyhound Friends by donating up to 20% of your purchase for in restaurant dining or take out food. This is a wonderful opportunity to have a fun and delicious dining experience with friends and family while supporting Greyhound Friends at the same time.

When you place your order, simply present your ticket (get yours here) to your server. If by chance you forget your ticket, it's not a problem, just let your server know that you would like to participate in the Greyhound Friends Doughraiser

Email: ghfriend@greyhound.org, Phone:508-435-5969

Louise Coleman, Executive Director

Greyhound Friends, Inc.

Another Dog Food Recall OR Another Reason to Feed Raw Diet

2010-08-08T14:52:00.002-04:00

In case you have not heard, Eukanuba and IAMS have been "voluntarily" recalled.

Hat tip to Keeper of the Hounds.

Supposed "top of the line" dog food. Phooey! This is yet, another reason to feed your pets raw diet.

We've been feeding raw diet to our hound for several years now. It's the right thing to do because it is best for our canine companion. We know exactly what our hound Wolf is eating. When we buy treats, we read the labels. If it contains more than a few ingredients, we put the package back. End of story.

How could we not feed this face only the best possible for his health?

The Next GEICO Gecko??

2010-08-07T23:40:00.004-04:00

One of the cool things about Florida is that there are geckos everywhere. I cannot pass a day without seeing at least one scurrying around outside the house on the porch or car port. As a result, we have almost no other bugs around. The other day, one of these cute little suckers must have been on the roof of the car. As we were driving, this one hopped on the windshield.

We pulled into the country club to let the little guy off in the grass.

This is taken from the outside looking in, just before I put the little guy on the grass, where he promptly found a bug and ate it.

New Wheels

2010-08-07T22:58:00.003-04:00

We've had a 2001 Grand Am since September 2001. It has been a great car. No real problems. No major repairs. But, alas, the old gal ain't what she used to be. The time had come to replace her.

Thus we began shopping for a new vehicle. I had my sights on a minivan. Yeah, I know. But there have been many times in our travels that we have wanted to buy something and bring it home or to the office but space in the car prohibited it. Brianna had driven a Kia Rondo as a rental car a couple years ago and had her eyes on getting one of those. Of course, she had the final say.

We got an excellent deal on a 2008 Kia Rondo with less than 30,000 miles on it. Kia has a ten year 100,000 mile warranty.

Even though I do most of the driving, Brianna insisted on being the one to drive home.

As a result we have to cancel our planned trip to New England for the end of August. In addition to not having the funds to travel, both of us have been having some intense lower back and and leg pain. Neither of us would be able to sit in a car for the multiple hours long haul back to the mother country.

I've always been a General Motors guy, but this Rondo is really a cool little vehicle. Lots of room, V6, so it has good pick-up and it's really comfortable. Just the right height. The Grand-Am was just a bit too low to the ground for my knees and back. As Goldilocks would say, this car is just right.

Life Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness

2010-07-02T22:18:00.003-04:00

When is the last time you actually READ the Declaration of Independence? More than ten years? It's been at least that for me. So, after watching the Nation Celebrates the Fourth of July at Ford's Theater I decided to actually read it. This led me to the Constitution, which I was supposed to read for a U.S. Government class, but never did. Like so many things in my school years, I stumbled and blustered my way though it. In the long run of course, I have only cheated myself.

In my Orthodox Christian religious practice, on certain days of the year we remember those who have lived the Christian ideal before us in an exemplary way, known as saints. Usually remembered on the day of their earthly death, through prayers and often by reading the story of their life, or their written works if they left any. In the same vein, this weekend during which we commemorate the forefathers of our great country, I plan to read through the Constitution. Seems like a good idea to help make this weekend more meaningful.

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!

Solid Solutions For Any Problem

2010-06-30T18:08:00.003-04:00

The Finished Product

2010-06-25T23:16:00.004-04:00

At long last here are the pictures of the completed (except for a few needed pictures) interior of the new house.

Living Room (or The Den as my Mother-in-Law insists on calling it)

Dining area

This is a hammered copper picture of an elephant that Brianna's parents bought
several years ago. The plant beside it was sent by a family member when her father
died almost four years ago.

I know you are not used to seeing Brianna in the kitchen, but I swear it's really her.

The kitchen as it usually looks without Brianna.
I really like this kitchen.

Master bedroom with the new bed

Wolf's corner in the Master Bedroom

Justin's Bedroom

Justin's room from another angle.

Drop One Day, Save Billions!

2010-06-21T17:12:00.002-04:00

The United States Postal Service has announced plans to reduce mail delivery to five days a week by ceasing to deliver on Saturdays. BRAVO! Of course the postal union is in an absolute tizzy. I won't even start on the carriers union. That is entire post in and of itself. The postal workers are already protesting outside some of the larger post offices in Florida and elsewhere.
I'm in favor of keeping postage rates as low as possible. If this means that a few overpaid government workers are offered early retirement, I'm okay with that.
If you feel the same way, let the postmaster general, Jack Potter, know. Send an email-- or hey better yet-- spend the forty-four cents and send a letter!

Postmaster General John E. Potter
475 L'Enfant Plaza SW
Washington, DC 20260-3100

My View

2010-06-16T21:34:00.005-04:00

So, I've been a little slow in posting pictures from the inside of the new house. Yeah. I'm a procrastinator. But, here are a few shots from around the outside of the house.

This is "Rainbow Over Walmart"
I've seen more rainbows in my first year in Florida than I have my entire life in New England.

Pool side view. I've been swimming almost every night since moving here. Pool is nice and quiet after 8 PM until it closes at 9 o'clock.

View from the pool, looking at the building that houses the computer room, laundry room, and a game room with several pool tables. To the immediate left on the other side of the lounge chairs is a walkway that overlooks a large lake. Pictures of the lake at sunset are below.

These two birds visit our back yard (small as it is) on a regular basis. I think they are fishing in the little canal that is out there. I have not found out just what they are yet. They stand about four feet tall and are beautiful.

GREYHOUND ADOPTION EXPO 2010

2010-06-14T21:38:00.002-04:00

2010 Greyhound Adoption Expo June 19th (Rain date June 20th)

He has a point.....

2010-06-14T21:29:00.001-04:00

Palm Bay Dog Park

2010-05-27T12:50:00.003-04:00

Wolf at the Palm Bay dog park
Gotta love those ears!

We live in Melbourne a very short distance from the off leash dog park. It's rather gross. Lots of smokers with no care or respect for the environment or non-smokers just toss their butts all over the ground even though plenty of receptacles are provided. But that's really not as bad as the fact that no one picks up after their dog poops all over the place.

In Contrast-- the Palm Bay off-leash dog park is BEAUTIFUL! Clean, lots of grass, well cared for and HUGE!
Its a few extra miles in the next town over, but well worth the drive.

The play area for dogs over 25 lbs is really large

Cool in the pool at the Palm Bay dog park- even though its a bit small for a greyhound
We've bought Wolf a large pool of his own for the house because he LOVES to be in the water

Extremist Celebrate in an extreme way

2010-04-23T14:27:00.005-04:00

Many people wrote to me saying that I was wrong when I accused Christine Dorchak and Carey Theil of being extremist wackos associated with P.E.T.A. but I stood my ground. They have recently announced a big shindig to celebrate the end of greyhound racing in New England. How do animal rights extremists party?

"What: Three-course vegan dinner with a selection of tea and cakes. " Seriously. Its on their website.

YUMMY huh?

Don't get me wrong. I myself eat and appreciate vegetarian and vegan foods for several weeks at a time throughout the year, as my family tries to follow the guidelines of fasting and abstinence of our Orthodox Christian faith. I have friends that are vegitarians for health reasons and their own principles. I respect that.

What I cannot accept is forcing ones personal beliefs on others. You can be certain that if organizations like P.E.T.A. and Grey2k continue to chip away at their goal to eliminate all companion animals, they will take the next step to force the entire population to eat only a vegan diet. Of course if they achieve this, I don't know what the full time paid activists like Newkirk, Theil and Dorchak will do to earn a living. Perhaps they can work in some kind of rider on the legislation outlawing meat and animal products that will give them some sort of annual government stipend annually. Why not? I'm sure they will believe they have earned it.

Moving.... again

2010-04-21T11:20:00.005-04:00

View of the new place from the outside

Spacious kitchen with LOTS of counter and cabinet space

So, we're moving again. We've been almost a year in Titusville.
We live in a brand new security patrolled, gated apartment complex with a beautiful wide open floor plan, oak cabinets, marble windowsills built smack dab in the middle of the ghetto.

I have lived in some rough places before, but never where I have actually heard gun shots. Yeah, for real.

We were going to brave it out another year because the monthly rent was actually going to be reduced by almost one hundred and twenty dollars, but things changed rather quickly. Brianna's mother has moved in with us, and this has facilitated us purchasing a home an entire year before we were planning to. We were looking around already just to see what was out there, and an excellent deal presented itself.

Wolf has already settled into his room

Needs a coat of paint before we can move in

Will be sure to post some "AFTER" pictures as well.

WOOFSTOCK 2010

2010-02-18T00:35:00.004-05:00

Mark your calendars and reserve the date.
Date: February 21, 2010
Time: 11:30 - 4:00
Place: Wickham Park Main Pavilion (Wickham & Post Roads)
(adjacent to Brevard Community College Campus Parking Lot)
in Melbourne, Florida

CLICK ON THE LOGO ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION

WHile you're planning out your hounds social calendar-- be sure to pencil in Yappy Hour February 20, 2010
Click for more information

Last Night Time Shuttle Launch

2010-02-08T04:25:00.002-05:00

Space Shuttle Endeavour took off from Cape Canaveral at 4:14 AM. An amazing sight from our apartment complex driveway. This is the very last night time launch planned for any space shuttle.
Pictures are not the greatest as they are from my camera phone.

O WHEN THE SAINTS GO MARCHING IN......

2010-02-08T00:53:00.002-05:00

Random Thoughts

2010-01-31T21:33:00.003-05:00

Having been in Florida seven months now, I have realized that outside of the large cities you have to travel at least 45 minutes to get anywhere. I'm starting to feel like a native Westfielder who believe that travel anywhere outside their town constitutes a day trip.

Today we traveled the fifty minute ride out to the far side of Orlando to attend Godsgreyts pot luck picnic. The president has 10 fenced in acres around her home, so she greytfully hosted this event. Over thirty hounds and their owners off leash, but muzzled-- the hounds that is-- for safety. All in all it was a very good afternoon. Brianna had a chance to be the social butterfly she loves to be, and I had some time to watch the hounds and sample the various homemade desserts, all of which were very good. Wolfie took off o his own as soon as he realized he was off leash. After ten minutes his mommy was worried and went looking for him. Where did she find her Big Brave Wolf? Standing right by the gate we came in, looking to get out! When she called his name he ran toward her at full speed; ears up, tail wagging. For the rest of the afternoon, even though he was off leash, he did not wander too far from from her. When she moved to talk to someone else, he moved with her.

A very small, and surprisingly quite sane greyhound group.

On a completely different note, I was cleaning out my email and found this poem that I thought a couple of our friends might get a chuckle out of. There is an interesting story behind it. It was sent to me by a friend of mine who lost his father a couple years ago. His sister found this in one of their dads old phone directories, penned on the back of an old business card for a bar long closed. The telephone number on the card was "Framingham 9028". That should give you an idea how old it is.

LIQUOR AND LONGEVITY

The horse and mule live 30 years

And nothing know of wine or beers.

The goat and sheep at 20 die

And never taste of scotch and rye.

The cow drinks water by the ton

And at 18 is mostly done.

The dog at 15 cashes in

Without the aid of rum and gin.

The cat in milk and water soaks

And then in 12 short years it croaks.

The modest, sober, bone-dry hen

Lays eggs for nogs, then dies at 10.

All animals are strictly dry

They sinless live and swiftly die.

But wicked, evil, rum-soaked men

Live on to three score years and ten.

And some of us, the mighty few,

Stay pickled till we’re 92.

Recent Wolfie Shots

2010-01-26T00:02:00.001-05:00

Happy HoliGreys

2009-12-09T20:40:00.001-05:00

A Least It Wasn't the Phillies

2009-11-05T22:52:00.002-05:00

Next year Red Sox Nation. Next year.

October 24 - "Wheelin n' Dealin for Greyhounds - Poker Run"

2009-10-20T14:57:00.004-04:00

I have been meaning to post this for a while, but time just seems to slip by on me...
I love the logo!

October 24 - "Wheelin n' Dealin for Greyhounds - Poker Run" - Hosted by SpaceCoast Harley-Davidson - 1440 Executive Drive, Palm Bay, FL, (9-4)
This special fundraiser features a 90 mile route through Brevard & Indian River Counties. Stops will be at Malibar Mo's, New England Eatery in Melbourne Beach and Lou's Blue's in Indian Harbour Beach.

Come join the fun and support the group. Harley-Davidson is planning an Open House and live entertainment. Prizes will be awarded to top 2 Poker Hands and Worse hand. Remember four wheels can ride the event as well as two.
For more infomation on the ride please contact Vicki at greyladie@cfl.rr.com.

Wolf Goes Back to Work (sort of)

2009-10-20T14:42:00.004-04:00

This past weekend, GPA Central Florida had a presence at the Cocoa Village fall craft fair. This was a great opportunity to educate people about this fantastic breed and to raise some funds. Brianna and Wolfie have been going to meet and greets in Titusville, but this was their first big event. I'm not sure who had a better time, Wolf or Brie. I suspect it was just about even as Wolf received lots of pets and Brie we able to show off her baby and talk to many people about greyhounds.

Some Recent Pics of Wolfie

2009-10-19T19:34:00.002-04:00

Time for a boycott on NIKE?

2009-09-30T23:36:00.003-04:00

Michael Vick is getting a big endorsement deal with NIKE.
Look-- I know he served his time.
He's working again as a football player.
OK. He served his time. Let him work.

But holding him up (so soon) as a role model--

I'm sorry. I just can't buy that.

Call, email, or write NIKE and let them know you if you are as unhappy as we are.

Loc Ness Monster Vacations in Florida??

2009-08-23T22:44:00.002-04:00

Hey-- if COULD happen.

Check it out.

New and Exciting Places

2009-08-16T14:41:00.003-04:00

One of the good things about being in a new location is scoping out all the new places to shop and eat. We like to stick to locally owned places whenever economically feasible, but especially when dining out. One of our new favorite haunts is Steve Family Diner right on Route 1 (South Washington) in Titusville. They don't have a website (yet). Their onion rings are some of the best we have ever tasted. Their coleslaw is made in house and is excellent. Most of their fish entrees are fresh, not frozen. Many homemade daily specials. We have not yet tried their fried chicken, but we have been told that it is out of this world delicious. This too is freshly hand battered (not frozen) and fried to order. The portions are all quite generous.

The other day we went in for lunch and were treated to a small slice of baklava cheesecake which was made that morning by the owners wife. All I can say is, OMG! To die for!

Our First Grind

2009-08-07T13:55:00.003-04:00

Since moving to Florida the first of July, we lost our supplier of fresh ground raw chicken. So, we bought a small meat grinder and did it ourselves.

2009 Greyhound Adoption Expo

2009-06-15T19:19:00.003-04:00

Wolfie's looking forward to visiting old friends

2009-05-15T02:26:00.008-04:00

Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17, 12:00-5:00 Greyhound Friends will be having their Spring Open House and Wolfie is looking forward to visiting some of his old friends.

If you're around the Hopkinton area, plan to stop by. If you have never seen their facility, this is a great opportunity. I am sure they will have many Hounds looking for a new home in their retirement.

In our experience, Greyhound Friends is one of the finest adoption groups in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. If you are looking for a way to support Retired Racing Greyhounds, I am sure they will appreciate it.

2009 Adoption Expo is ON

2009-04-21T20:36:00.005-04:00

In case you have not already heard, the 2009 Greyhound Adoption Expo IS happening.

Check it out!

Mark your calendar!

Tell your friends!

Them Bones, Them Bones, Them Marrow Bones...

2009-04-09T15:16:00.004-04:00

We have a friend that gave his hounds some huge beef neck bones. All of his hounds devoured them. Even his tiny beagle chomped hers down to a nub. We excitedly received a couple neck bones for our hound as well, had our son saw them in to what should have been reasonably manageable pieces.

Nothing. A few sniffs and a couple licks.

Damn!

Overly refined greyhound?
LAZY hound? I say the latter, but my wife disagrees.

Even small cut marrow bones do not keep his attention for very long.

What an amazingly beautiful, but equally finicky hound!

He chomps on his toys with more enthusiasm than he does these marrow bones.

I just don't get it!

Censorship, Liars & Lawyers! OH MY! And some clarification...

2009-03-17T14:31:00.005-04:00

Is there an effort among the extremist animal rights activists to shut down blogs that oppose their limited view?

One of our linked blogs seems to indicate so.

"RoryOlogy Information those who claim to be advocates and protectors of the greyhounds didn't want you to know or thoughts and ideas they didn't want you to consider."

We're waiting for their brain injured lawyer to bring it on!
So check back often for more details!

A Little Clarification...

A couple folks have written us and asked us why we are so "pro-racing".
We're not pro-racing.
We're PRO-GREYHOUND!

Retired racing greyhounds are the most unique companion animals. They are not like other dogs-- a mantra heard all the time among adoption groups. It's true! They're not at all like other dogs. This is because of the way they were raised and the experiences they had during their racing career. Raise a greyhound like you would any other dog, and you will not get the same temperament and personality you get in a retired racer.

The Massachusetts tracks were the most highly regulated in the entire country. But that is a thing of the past now. New Hampshire certainly needs better regulations for the housing and care of the hounds. Let's work on that rather than trying to wipe out an entire breed as we know it (and LOVE it!)

Don't want to leave a public comment? We would love to hear from you. magiczambia@yahoo.com

GREY2K USA & HSUS

2009-03-16T14:56:00.008-04:00

There is an effort underway in New Hampshire to end greyhound racing in the state. They are calling it the Greyhound Protection Act. It is actually the Greyhound Termination Act, as if this bill passes, the breed of greyhounds as we know them will cease to exist. As a family that has adopted retired racers, we oppose this legislation. Contact your state representatives and let them know that you oppose this legislation, especially in these tough economic times.

Grey2K, the organization that lead a campaign to eradicate greyhound racing in Massachusetts, and is now lobbying state legislators in New Hampshire, receives the majority of their funding and support from The Humane Society of the United States. (HSUS) Sounds like a great organization right? Must kind of be like a national parent organization to my local Humane Society eh? I bet they save, house and shelter all kinds of animals right?

ABSOLUTELY NOT!

The HSUS is a political action committee, that according to it own website, "protects all animals through legislation, litigation, investigation, education, advocacy and field work."

So, when they send you the cute little note pads and address labels in the mail and you send them a donation thinking that they save and shelter animals, you are contributing to the extremist animal rights groups like PETA which is a strategic partner with the HSUS.

Whacko's at it again....

2009-02-24T14:25:00.006-05:00

Cary Theil and Christine Dorchak (pictured left) along with the HSUS and PETA and the other extremist animal rights activists are at it again.

Manchester Union Leader
THE DOG BAN LIVES. Supporters of legislation to outlaw greyhound racing in New Hampshire are optimistic they can pass their bill on the House floor even if it emerges from the House Local and Regulated Revenues Committee without a recommendation. During a lengthy committee executive session Tuesday, proponents offered an amendment to clarify that the bill would not apply to horse racing at Rockingham Park. Another amendment moved the effective date back a year, to January 2011. After several votes, no clear consensus emerged on what to do with the legislation, and the committee session will continue (weather permitting) today. An alternative bill that would have given the two remaining greyhound tracks the option of taking bets with or without live racing was soundly defeated by the committee.
---------------------

I would like to think New Hampshire voters and legislators will not be fooled. But, I thought Massachusetts voters were smart enough to do their own research as well. Boy was I wrong.

The N.H. track owners better more proactive than the Mass track owners were if they are going to preserve the status quo.

For the record, I agree that the conditions for the dogs at the New Hampshire tracks are horrible. The responsible thing to do would be to advocate for increased oversight and tightly regulated policies like those that exist in Massachusetts. Why not focus efforts and resources on this?

New Hampshire residents: Be sure to contact your representatives and tell them not to be fooled by these extremists who went so far as to protest fish and chips being served at the New England Aquarium!

Christine Dorchak at a PETA protest at the New England Aquarium

Hungry Like The Wolfie

2009-02-11T19:12:00.004-05:00

This once timid, shy hound has been emerging more and more from his shell.
What a blessing he is to us!
Wolfie has discovered toys. He especially love the ones that squeak, quack, whine, whinny, and/or bray.

When he first arrived we bought him a couple soft squeaky toys, but he really had no interest in them. Then, several weeks ago, Summer, the Kerry Blue Terrier from the office across the hall, left on of her toys here after visiting. Wolfie picked it up, brought it to his bed and proceeded to chomp and chew on it with great intensity causing it to bray repeatedly. This went on for close to half an hour before we heard a definitive "CRUNCH" that signaled the end for Mister Donkey.

Of course we have bought him several replacements in the past several weeks, all of which have been dispatched between the jaws of our mighty wolf with increasing intensity and ease. The latest donkey lasted all of three minutes.

Happy New Year

2009-01-07T01:55:00.002-05:00

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.....

2008-12-20T13:06:00.001-05:00

Power Napping

2008-12-19T16:25:00.004-05:00

Along with his new mamma, Wolfgang is preparing for the Power Napping Competition in the next Olympics.

While I do not see the humor in it, every morning when the alarm goes off at around 7:30, Wolfie likes to prance and say "good morning" by whining and barking several times. Of course his Mamma responds with a high pitched excited "Good morning Wolfie", which only encourages him to carry on even more. It's cute any other time of day, but not before 9 AM from where I stand, or more accurately, from where I lay (trying to sleep!)

Companion Animal Portrait Artist

2008-12-17T13:05:00.004-05:00

My wife is an avid reader of Celebrating Greyhounds magazine. Recently she was devouring the latest issue in which she found mentioned artist Kent Roberts. I wasn't too excited about being distracted from my current project to view another greyhound related website (an even that occurs all too often in our home and office).
I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised, as well as amazed. Check out his Pet Portraits.

This is one of Kent Roberts portraits that struck me the most. So many other pet portrait artists that I have seen can't seem to capture the eyes like Kent does. Others, and I'm thinking of one local "artist" in particular, look-- well they just look cartoonish really. Roberts charges (according to his website) $185.00 for an 11 by 14, which considering the quality of the work, is a very good deal. We are thinking about comissioning a portrait of our beloved Magic Zambia after the first of the year. If we do, we'll be sure to post it along with out impressions of communicating with the artist.

I'm ready for my close ups....

2008-12-17T00:10:00.001-05:00

Wolfgang Update

2008-12-07T00:31:00.005-05:00

Wolfie is settling in very nicely.
His ears and tail are both up most of the time.
He has come out of his shell, and plays and barks in his back yard. He has more confidence when he feels safe and secure.
His visit to the vet was very smooth and easy. He almost seemed to enjoy it believe it or not. he even laid down and sprawled out in the exam room waiting for the vet.
He still has trouble with the linoleum. Things take time.
He is a wonderful hound.
And he is making eye contact with us, which he did not do the first couple weeks.
How could anyone not love a face like that?

One Week In And All Is Well

2008-11-23T21:58:00.003-05:00

It's been nine days. We've all learned a few things.
One of our friends gave us some guidance on helping a timid hound adjust to his new home. Thanks man.
My wife has been spending lots of time with Wolfie, sitting on the floor, petting him, talking to him, hand feeding him treats. She used to do that to me when we first met too, and things turned out OK with me. It's working wonders with our hound as well.
He still is a bit freaked out by the linoleum on the kitchen floor.
He had a visit from another greyhound on Sunday morning. It was great! Well, once he got over the initial fright of opening the door and seeking another dog in his yard, it was great. Wolfgang's true personality came out as he tried to get Gordon (the other hound) to play. He even barked for the first time since his arrival here!

Monday is his first visit to the vet for a meet and greet and a blood draw.

Day Two Better Photos

2008-11-15T18:44:00.005-05:00

Look at those beautiful markings! He looks like he should have been named "Tiger".

After a quiet and uneventful night, we woke up earlier that usual and let Wolf outside. He seems to have trouble with the linoleum floor in the kitchen, so we need to guide him slowly over that. He went outside, did his thing all in one spot and was ready to come back inside. I don't blame him. It was a dark and rainy morning, but fairly nice temperature wise, especially for this time of year. He chowed down breakfast and went back to bed-- in fact we ALL went back to bed until noon time!

Later he had his first taste of pancakes and sausage. It's a rare event in our house for the human occupants as well.

We went to the office where he went right inside, sniffed around and found his corner with bed and blanket. After some more searching around, he settled in to his spot, with a new toy, and seems to be feeling safe and making himself right at home.

What a wonderful hound!

Wolfgang Day One

2008-11-14T22:27:00.004-05:00

Having lost Magic some time ago, we had in our mind that we wanted to adopt another retired racer. Everyone and their cousin offered their opinion about timing. At least a month, three months, six months, a year at least, so on and so forth. One adoption group in particular wanted to let us know when were were ready (We'll write more about that dysfunctional mess when we have had some time to process it and hash it out in our own minds. All we'll say for now is that it Robert Hunter's lyrics ring through our mind whenever we think about it....Lately it occurs to me: What a long, strange trip it's been.)

The other day we took a ride out to visit another greyhound adoption group. We just wanted to meet the people, introduce ourselves, let them know we are looking, so that if the right match came up, they would keep us in mind. Well, wouldn't you know they just happened to have a hound they thought might fit into our pack.

His racing name was Nita's Big Wolfe. We've adopted him and have decided Wolfgang is much more dignified, but Wolfie for short will work just fine.

This wonderful boy is anything but wolf-like at this time. He is such a shy and timid hound right now, but we know that with love, time and patience, he will blossom in his retirement.

Who is this handsome fellow?

2008-11-13T23:51:00.003-05:00

This handsome fellow to the right is Wolfgang, but his friends call him Wolfie.

We'll tell you more about him this weekend.

SAD DAY FOR GREYHOUNDS

2008-11-04T23:47:00.004-05:00

It is a sad day in the Commonwealth for Greyhounds, Greyhound lovers, and the racing industry.

Christine Dorchak and her wife Carey Theil achieved victory through manipulation, lies and distortions.

Someone told me that they are now worried that the dogs will be moved to a state where racing is not as regulated as it is in Massachusetts. I'm not. Having met several of the kennel owners, I know that no matter where they will race their dogs, they will continue the same high quality, and loving care. It's only common sense.

Sadly, common sense was lacking in the Bay State this election day when it comes to greyhounds.

Massachusetts residents are caring and compassionate people as a whole. I am proud to live here for the most part. Folks want to trust organizations like the MSPCA, Grey2K and others who claim to be looking out for animal welfare. This why the proponents of Question 3 where able to capitalize on this trust, twist the facts and achieve a victory.

As good as we feel about the outcome of other political races and ballot questions, it is bittersweet.

Thank you to those who approached this issue with an open mind.

To the track and kennel employees, our hearts go out to you, and our prayers and support are still with you.

WHO IS BEHIND QUESTION 3 ??

2008-10-27T22:04:00.003-04:00

OK, we've already had our initial look at one of the extremists behind Question 3, Ms. Christine Dorchak who's preternatural relationship with her dog led her to become active in animal rights. That's a new one: "My dog made me do it!"

But Christine is not alone. The Humane Society of the United States is bankrolling the initiative.

They sound like a good organization-- they must be part of the Human Society-- you know, the people who look out for animals and provide shelters for strays right? NOPE! They do not operate one single shelter! You would be surprised just what most people do not know about the HSUS but SHOULD!

The HSUS has deep pockets. Read about their other ballot question initiative in California aimed at pricing eggs out of Californians reach.

I love animals. I think people that really abuse them should be punished.

BITING THE HAND THAT FEEDS YOU: WHO IS THE REAL CHRISTINE DORCHAK?

2008-10-23T23:48:00.007-04:00

I believe in being an educated voter. I like to know the candidates, listen to debates, read about their lives and such. I was talking with one of our local up and coming politicians the other day about local elections and the various ballot questions. When it came to Question 3, we both agreed that it is best for the state to preserve the status quo when it comes to dog racing. It provides jobs and revenue. In these times, this is a good thing. Racing is regulated just like everything else in Massachusetts. (I grew up in New Hampshire where last I knew you still don't have to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.)

As we ended our conversation, my friend said something odd. "If you are serious about understanding the Question 3 story, look at the people behind it."

Okay. I'm game.

The two names that I hear and read most often are Carey Theil and Christine Dorchak. An article in the Christian Science Monitor reveals why these two names are always popping up together. They live together as a couple. Two other names also appear together frequently as well; GREY2K USA and the Committee to Protect Dogs. A quick search on these two organizations reveals they are both run by the same people! Oh yeah- ONE MORE: The GREY2K USA Education Fund. Yep-- same people. We're going to do our best to get the financial information (regarding salaries in particular) on these organizations in the coming days, as several sources are saying that Theil and Dorchak are making a comfortable living from these organizations.

At least George Carney and Bill O'Donnell are honest about the source of their income from the dog racing industry. It seems to me that no matter if Question 3 passes or not Ms. Dorchak and Mr. Theil come up winner$.

So, who is Christine Dorchak? The person who knows her best, Carey Theil in a news paper interview, describes her as "...stubborn..." Virginia Fuller, past president of the New England Wildlife Center said in the same interview that Christine is atypically impassioned and that animal rescue is the "focus of her being." This is beginning to sound like one of the PETA extremists to me. What next? Will she have us shutting down the New England Aquarium because they keep fish in a tank or serve fish on the menu in the cafeteria?

Ooops! I forgot! She's already done that!

Dorchak picketing New England Aquarium with extremist activists PETA in 1998

Perhaps this best reveals the character of Ms. Dorchak.
According to the same referenced article in the Christian Science Monitor, George Carney, owner of the Raynham race track, and a trustee of the New England School of Law, was on the stage to award Dorchak her diploma, which she received through a scholarship at least partially provided by Mr. Carney, who earns (at least some of ) his money from greyhound racing!

OUCH! Talk about biting the hand that feeds you!

If Ms. Dorchak has such ethical issues with greyhound racing, perhaps she should return the diploma for that law degree, or at the very least, the money from her scholarship.

Source: October 10, 2007 Christian Science Monitor

Magic Zambia 2000-2008

2008-10-16T11:58:00.003-04:00

This morning we awoke to what we thought was the sound of Magic rolling over. He sometimes bumped against the radiator cover, making the metal cover clank a bit. Then an unusual THUD. We looked over to see our puppy in an awkward position, unable to stand up, pupils dialated, and eyes glassy. We rushed him to Boston Road Animal Hospital as they were the closest and the only clinic open at such an early hour.
The veterinarian told us that it was most likely a brain tumor and discussed various options with us, none of which would give our beloved Greyhound the quality of life that he was used to. Unable to even stand up, he looked at us, scared and confused. The vet told us that he was most likely not feeling any pain, but his eyes told us differently.
After many tears, we came to the conclusion that it was in Magic's best interest for us to say goodbye so that his suffering would end. He went to sleep in his Mommy's arms while his Daddy stroked and pet his face and neck.

Good bye buddy. We love you and miss you.

An Eye Opener

2008-10-09T19:25:00.002-04:00

Back in June of 2008 we were presented an opportunity to make a visit to one of the two remaining greyhound racing tracks Massachusetts. We had adopted Magic four years ago thinking we had "saved" or "rescued" him from a miserable existence. I was ready to get a first hand look at how our "poor puppy" had been treated.

We were met by the volunteer coordinator and given an overview of our day and then brought to the weigh in area where all the dogs are brought before racing. Here I learned that the dogs are weighed in and checked by both the track veterinarian as well as the state racing commission vet. After they are weighed and examined, they are placed in kennel crates-- one dog per crate with the measurements which were set by the MSPCA and Grey2K USA-- to await their chance to race. I was shocked at the level of security and the regulations that help to insure the safety of the dogs.

We were then taken to the post race area where the dogs are brought to cool down. They are walked by their handlers after the race so that they can relax their muscles, get some fresh cold water, a bath to clean any dust off their coat, paws. They even get their eyes washed out as well. There is another area sectioned off and controlled by the state racing commission. This is where they bring dogs selected at random for urine testing.

We were told about the training and schooling that the dogs go through, the selective breeding process which is also very tightly regulated to prevent inbreeding and over breeding. We were given an opportunity to ask questions and express our concerns and receive honest and straight forward answers.

We took a break for lunch and had the opportunity to watch a couple of the races. This was a first for us. We had seen our own retired racer sprint and run with some of his greyhound friends. Nothing compares to the beauty of these dogs at full speed. It is truly amazing and even more so that they really seem to enjoy doing it. As we watched the dogs walk to the starting gate I could see that they were excited. It was a beautiful sight-- seeing these dogs do that which they were created to do.

After lunch we paid a visit to one of the kennels. Now I was ready to see the horrible conditions we have been told about. The turn out area was clean and free of any piles of waste. There was an odor of dogs, we were, after all in a a kennel, but it was not a foul smell. The trainer allowed us to let several of the dogs out of their crates a couple at a time. All of them were very happy and playful. Not one seemed skittish or scared at all! If a dog is abused, you can usually tell by the way it acts around its owner, and also around strangers. Happy, friendly and playful. Every last one of them.

The trainer told us about his days, often twelve to fourteen hours long. You can see his love for the dogs and their love for him in their interactions. The kennel and the crates are cleaned every day. (I wish our house was cleaned that often!) They are subject to unannounced inspections by the State Police and MSPCA.

I came away with a different opinion that day.

If Ballot Question 3 passes, Massachusetts will lose over a thousand more jobs, an average of 4 million dollars per year in taxes and fees, the businesses surrounding the tracks will also also experience negative effects. The Greyhound breed as we know it, will eventually cease to exist, and it is this that saddens me most of all. Greyhounds are unlike any other dog I have ever had.

Please, vote NO on question 3.