We’re two full-time working adults in a quiet household – Jose is our only pet and wouldn’t have it any other way! He loves his snoozes while we’re away at work and greets us with the most exciting grin when we come home!
We did a fair bit of research about dogs that might best suit our lifestyle – Greyhounds consistently topped the lists of dog breeds that are compatible with full-time workers. The fact that GAPWA exists and knowing we’d have access to ongoing support if required was also a great peace of mind.
We attended a public event where GAPWA had a stall prior to adopting Jose, this solidified the decision to adopt a greyhound as we were able to ask tons of questions of both GAPWA staff and volunteer greyhound parents. Beyond that, we had no prior experience with greyhounds.
Living with a greyhound
Jose was a little unsure in the beginning, being very conscious of our every move – he was like a personal CCTV system! We found that he settled quite quickly. And although we promised ourselves that we would not share the sofa with any dog – we relented by day two – much to Jose’s delight.
It didn’t take him long at all to adapt to our routine. He now make sure that we’re up by the time our alarm goes off for work (even on weekends – sigh) because he knows it means company, a walk and some breakfast. He’s happy to be on his own most of the day, as he sleeps the day away!
Jose is hilariously aloof, LOVES his twice daily walks, playing with his Kong and having his nose permanently stuck to either of our backsides. He’s learned to sit for his favourite food or before heading out the door and loves a visit to the local farmers market on the weekend.
The car is his favourite object in the world – he loves going for rides and sticking his long nose out the window. Jose is not very interested in toys, unless they hold his favourite treats. Sharing the sofa with his humans, snacking on leftover chicken or going for a walk down the neighbourhood park – he loves the simple things.
Jose is definitely comfortable as an only dog in the house – he doesn’t mind meeting his peers on outings or having dog friends over for a visit, but he is most happy around humans.
The impact
We’ve loved having Jose in our lives, it’s really been the missing piece for us! We’re truly a little family!
Having Jose has made us more active, focus more on routines and it’s opened up a network of other greyhound owners that we wouldn’t normally have connected with.
Never in my life have I met a creature that sleeps as much, and in such awkward positions as our greyhound!
What would you say to someone thinking about adopting a greyhound?
Connect with GAPWA and just have a chat. We have found the information they were able to provide so valuable – we felt so supported throughout the adoption process. Greyhounds make such lovely pets – sure they are funny looking, sleep awkwardly and the zoomies can be something else – but you couldn’t find a better dog!
Hose is very easy to visit and adorable to spend time with our 3rd 4 legged grandchild. He joins. Up with Ele in Rockingham and Harry of Albany! We also have 3 two legged. Grandsons! How lucky are we!