Last week there was drama in my corner of the world over a news story about greyhound rescues.  A local organization’s spokesperson said these wonderful dogs are “treated like livestock” in a certain state and the  methods of disposing of them included “pushing them off a boat in the Atlantic Ocean.”

What hit the fan was so significant that the television station actually changed the text in the online story after the local nonprofit organization revoked the spokesperson’s membership in the organization. The organization also issued an apology to the greyhound racing industry.

So what is the truth behind greyhound racing?  While I’m no expert, I’ve have heard from some sources that greyhounds really are treated well, that they are a dearly loved breed both at racetracks and as pets in their “forever” homes.  Here’s one link about greyhounds that addresses misconceptions and myths about these magnificent animals.  But then there is the Greyhound Protection League that says otherwise – they maintain, for example, that the business of greyhound racing is responsible for the death of thousands of greyhounds every year.

So who do you believe? I don’t have the answer because there are two or twenty sides to every story.  What we do know is that there really are a LOT of greyhound available for adoptions and they are gentle, sweet dogs.  Definitely a family friendly dog that would make a home a happy place.

Photo from another local greyhound rescue organization participating in my city’s Halloween candy trail.