Putting An End To Dog Racing, One Greyhound At A Time

By Jennifer Nicole Cox, Author, Dog Lover and Dogasaur Blogger

MI REGAP, founded by Leslie Forys and Lenka Perron in 1994, has rescued and found forever homes for 1,524 greyhounds.  Their first rescued greyhound was Gypsy, a small brindle girl who touched their hearts so much that they took on the tremendous challenge of rescuing these beautiful creatures and attempting to put an end to the blood sport of dog racing forever.

MI REGAP began with the philosophy of being an anti-racing dog rescue group.  Their founders wanted to focus on educating the public about the atrocities associated with dog racing and just how many dogs are put to death each year because of the mere fact they were too slow even though they were perfectly healthy.  At that time, there were no other greyhound groups that took this hard of a stance and MI REGAP was given a hard time because of their decision of being anti-racing, but they held firm to their beliefs.  Because of their platform and their great work being spotlighted by the media, more people are realizing that dog racing should be put to an end.

Instead of working with any one kennel, breeder or farm, MI REGAP rescues
greyhounds from all across the country, taking dogs that are highest at risk
from being destroyed.  These greyhounds are on death row and at times, in
very poor health.  Because they are a rescue group, MI REGAP does not
discriminate when choosing their greyhounds.  It does not matter their
color, their age, or their gender.  They take whatever dogs need their help
the most.

Greyhounds make great pets!  They are gentle, affectionate, and very loving.  They are also great with children, as well as cats and other animals.  There is just not enough time in the day to share with you all of the fine qualities of a greyhound.

If you plan on making a greyhound a permanent member of your family, there are a few things to remember.  While outside, greyhounds always need to be on a leash or in a fenced-in area at all times.  They also need to be indoor dogs, kept on a high-quality lamb and rice diet.  During the adjustment period, they need to be crated and understood, especially if they were physically abused.  Most importantly, they need to be loved.

There are many different ways to help MI REGAP.  As a non-profit organization, volunteers are always needed.  Whether the help is with adoption, fostering, events, or advocacy, all are equally appreciated.  Even the smallest amount of help can make all the difference in the world.

MI REGAP is in constant need of foster homes.  Foster homes provide food and love to the track dogs and help them adjust to home living.  MI REGAP provides all of the vetting, a crate, and any supplies needed, such as a dog bed and winter coat.  In case the foster home is unable to afford the few scoops of kibble needed daily, MI REGAP has a food program to assist them.  They train all of their foster homes and offer them support 24/7.  Since MI REGAP does not have a kennel, they can only save as many dogs as they have foster homes.  If you are interested in fostering one of their greyhounds, please contact Jennifer Valdez (Foster Home Coordinator) at jen4greyrescue@yahoo.ca.

Donations of blankets, crates, food (high-quality lamb and rice), bedding, etc. are always welcome and highly appreciated.

Important message from MI REGAP:
“To date, there are 7 states that still allow dog racing, although there is a ballot proposal slated for 2010 to allow Florida dog tracks to cease live racing and still allow the profitable gaming of their casinos.  What this means is the very real possibility of 3,000 ex-racing dogs will be displaced all at once from dog tracks in Florida, as the tracks there are the end of the line.  Our focus, moving forward, is to rescue as many dogs at risk as possible and this is only possible with the support of the public by volunteering, making donations, fostering and adopting.  We can only do what we do because of YOU!”

To learn more about MI REGAP and how you can make a donation to this wonderful organization, please visit their website: www.rescuedgreyhounds.com. You may also call their toll free number: 1-800-GO HOUND
“Let’s all do our part to put an end to dog racing!”

Jennifer Nicole Cox
Author of 500 Things That Make Dogs Happy
This guide to everything that makes a dog happy is required and inspired reading for anyone who has ever been, is now or ever will be owned by a dog.
Website: www.500thingsthatmakedogshappy.com

Purchase your copy here: http://www.dogasaur.com/store/products/500-things-that-make-dogs-happy-by-jennifer-nicole-cox-200.html