As ambassadors of GPA our dogs must always be on their best behavior. If your Grey does not do well at social functions, or is uncomfortable around other dogs, children, or large crowds please consider leaving him at home. You can always attend an event without your dog and help in some capacity.

Make sure that you check in with the event coordinator and let them know your dog's name(s) and the personality of each dog.

If there are other dogs around, please make sure that your Grey is on a short leash and secure with you, not interfering with other dog's leads, as leashes tangle quickly. NO extended retractable leads are allowed. We recommend that you use a humane restraint collar, not too loose, or a body harness so your Grey will not be able to slip out of his collar and take off in the blink of an eye.

Be prepared. Make sure that your dog has plenty of water and that you clean up after your dog. During the summer the pavement can get very hot, so if you are walking in a parade be aware of this. If the pavement is too hot for you to walk barefoot on, then it is too hot for your Grey. Be mindful of cars and traffic at all times.

When participating in a parade with the float, special care should be taken to insure the safety of the dogs. More than one person should ride with the dogs at all times, to make sure they are comfortable and secure. Dogs should be picked up when placing them on the float, or taking them off.

When volunteering with the Hounds Out and About Program, you will be trained to handle kennel dogs. Most are fresh from the racing environment, with little experience in the world. Special care should be taken in crowds, around small animals and with children. While normally contained in x-pens while "Out and About", the dogs are taken out for breaks, and to go on walks with potential adopters. Kennel dogs may be unpredictable, so a firm grip on a short leash is recommended while walking.