Adoption information
This information is not going to apply to every rescue organisation but outlines what you might expect in the procedure of adopting a sighthound.
All reputable rescue organisations will insist on a homecheck being carried out before placing a dog in a home. This is important for both the dog's sake and your own. A suitable match means the dog is more likely to settle with you and a rescue needs to be assured that your home is appropriate for their dog. It also gives you an opportunity to ask questions and allay any worries you may have.
The homechecker is not coming to judge you or your housekeeping standards! They are there to assess your suitability to adopt a sighthound in this instance. Some things to consider:
Your family – It is important that you all want a sighthound. Any dog is a lifelong commitment so all your family must be happy about having one. If you have small children, or babies a rescue may consider that you should wait until the children are a bit older. Having said that, some sighthounds are excellent with little ones. It is very important that all children respect a dog's sleep time. Do not let your children ever wake a dog or pull it about. Gentle strokes and soft voices will help your new companion feel right at home.
Your time - You need to inform the rescue whether you work full time, part time or are at home all day. It is possible for sighthounds to be homed to working families. They should, however, have a break halfway through the day for the loo most importantly. An older sighthound might be more suitable to this situation. Your rescue can advise you.
Exercise – All dogs need to be exercised. A 4 or 5 year old greyhound will manage with 2 or 3 half hour walks each day, whilst a 1 year old bouncy lurcher may need an hour or two. Your lifestyle will be important. If you love going for long country rambles any sighthound will happily accompany you, but if you can only manage quick walks during the week, a greyhound is happy with that too. If you can find an enclosed, safe area, they do like to stretch their legs! After all they are running dogs.
A reputable rescue will not home a sighthound to be worked or kept outside.
Your garden – If you have a garden, it is very important that it is enclosed by a high fence. Sighthounds are good jumpers! Some rescues will insist you must have a garden, others not.
Other pets – Sighthounds can live with smaller pets in many instances. Again, be advised by your rescue. Some have a higher prey drive than others but may respond to desensitising. A sensible approach is what is needed.
A reputable rescue will have had your sighthound treated for parasites, microchipped and hopefully neutered. If not neutered then you must give assurances that this will be carried out at the earliest opportunity. It is extremely important that you do not breed any more sighthounds. Rescues are inundated with them. Be responsible and neuter.
You can expect to pay anything from £80 - £130 for a rescue sighthound.
A sighthound, be it big or small, rough coated or smooth, will enjoy being part of your family and will soon win your heart with its gentle nature. It will be a loving and loyal companion. You'll soon wish for more!