Frequently Asked Questions
This section is to answer some of the common questions about
Greyhounds, our Adoption program and Greyhound Pet Adoption Northwest.
Please use the menu's at the top of the page to navigate to each topic. There
you will find many detailed questions and their answers.
If you have a questions that is not answered in this section, please
contact us by telephone or email. We are always happy to answer any
questions you may have.
Q: What is a retired racer?
A: With a life span of 12 to 15 years, retirement comes early for
racing Greyhounds. Typically, they retire between the ages of 1 1/2
to 6 years. They are retired for various reasons but most are
healthy, well behaved and make a wonderful addition to a family as a
pet.
Typically retired Greyhounds have a gentle nature. They are used to
being handled by many people, are kennel trained, love to go on
walks on a leash and love to be petted. Males are generally between
65 and 85 pounds and measure 26 to 30 inches high and females are
between 50 and 65 pounds and measure 23 to 26 inches high.
Greyhounds come in many colors: Red, Black, Brindle, Fawn, Blue,
White or a combination of these colors.
Q: How do I meet a Greyhound in person to see what they
are like?
A: GPA Northwest holds many "Meet A Retired Racer
Day" events all around our adoption area. Please check the Events
page of our website for the time and date of a Meet A Retired Racer
Day near you. Or please contact us and we can let you know of a good
time and place to meet some Greyhounds.
Q: What do I need to do to adopt a retired racing
Greyhound?
A: Research and educate yourself about Greyhounds!
Yes, these dogs need homes, but more than that, they need people who
have made an educated and responsible commitment. Read books, visit
websites and talk with Greyhound families. You are invited to any of
our Meet A Retired Racer Day events or other special events, where
you can meet Greyhounds and talk with Greyhound owners. If you
decide a retired racing Greyhound would make the perfect addition to
your life, fill out and send an application. You can complete an
application online or print and mail it to us. A placement volunteer
will work with you from there on. Read our Adoption process FAQ page
to learn more about our process.