A family-run greyhound rehoming charity has found ‘loving forever homes’ for almost 1,000 dogs over 17 years.
The Barley Greyhound Sanctuary in Waltham Abbey was hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic but is now getting back up and running again.
Lisa Samson, who works at the sanctuary which is managed by her mum, Joy, said: “We had to close for a couple of months over lockdown which sadly meant no dogs could go to new homes for a short time.
“Luckily we have been allowed to open again now and we've been doing really well with lots of lucky greyhounds going to their lovely new homes. Lockdown has also meant all our fundraising events and promotion of greyhounds as pets at events have been cancelled which has hit us quite hard.”
Lisa, Joy and the volunteering team.
Previously known as Barley Kennels, the charity takes in retired racing greyhounds from all over the UK and finds them loving homes once their racing careers are over.
In June the sanctuary became an independent charity and now relies entirely on donations to continue its work; the sanctuary is aided by a team of 12 volunteers who help with walking the dogs, grooming, and feeding.
Lisa added: “Greyhounds generally retire between the age of three and five years. Sometimes they are younger and occasionally older.
“They have a lifespan of 12-14 years, so they have many years ahead of them to be fantastic pets in retirement.
“Greyhounds a generally a very healthy breed with minimal health problems, sometimes they can come in with previous racing injuries, but these are treated and usually don't affect them leading happy lives as pets at home.”
“When rehoming a greyhound we like the new adopters to do some research into the breed as they are a unique breed and they can have breed traits like wanting to chase small furry animals but they are extremely loving and affectionate and they make amazing pets.”
Potential adopters will ideally have a securely fenced garden – however flat owners may also be considered in the right circumstances.
The sanctuary carries out home visits before any adoptions takes place to ensure they are going to a safe environment.
“The job is very rewarding but it can also be extremely tough, especially if any dogs come in to us in poor condition”, Lisa explained. “We look after and care for them all like they are our own so there are always lots of tears when we say goodbye to them as they head off to their new families.”
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