Happy Birthday Rory - have a super day! xx

Happy birthday gorgeous Rory, enjoy your day precious. Love from us all. Xxxxx

Happy Birthday gorgeous, big birthday kiss from me to you xxxxxx

Wishing Rory a very Happy 10th Birthday! His Mom sent me a photo of him looking very comfy on her bed. :))) Sending him a big cuddle. Xxx

Happy Birthday Rory xxxxx

Happy Birthday Rory!

Oh bless him, so happy that he has finally found his forever home, lots of love to you Rory, I think you are wonderful xxxxx

I heard from Rory's new Mom today. She said to let all his friends know he has settled very well and she adores him! She sent me a lovely photo of him enjoying a walk in the snow. Sending them both my cuddle tonight. Xxx

So happy for you Rory. Enjoy your new life. Xx

Lots of love to Rory and his new family. Xxx

Great news Rory so pleased for you,hope this is your new home for life,you deserve it xx

Yay so pleased for you rory, hope you have a wonderful life xxx

So very pleased for Rory, let's hope it's for keeps this time because he so deserves it xx

Rory, so happy to see this, hoping everything works out for you, and just in time for your 10th birthday. Good luck sweetie you really deserve your forever home, you are such a handsome gentle boy. Xxxx

I do love it when I see a Green sign, and especially for this special gentleman, enjoy your life Rory, you have now found your forever home, well done gorgeous xxxxxx

Ahhhhhh bursting with happiness for this little man. Good luck Rory xxxxx

So happy for this boy, have a lovely new life with your new family! Xx

All went very well with the home visit for Rory and he should be going off to his new home tomorrow! :)) Xxx

Heartwarming new photo of Rory, just what this boy needs xxxxxx

So happy brilliant news Xx

Aw, that's fantastic news xxx

Wonderful news x

We have had an offer of a forever home for Rory :)) He will stay with his lovely foster family pending a home visit and finalising details. Thanks so much to everyone who has contacted us regarding offering this super lad a home. We will let you know how everything goes. Xxx

So pleased Rory has the company of another Grey, and that he is being well looked after, bless him, he's such a special boy and he deserves to be happy xxxx

So good to hear that Rory has settled and is happy in Tui's company. Thank you. xx

Lovely to hear this, and that he got another greyhound for company. I have met Rory before and he is such a wonderful boy. xx

Thanks so very much for fostering this poor lad xxx

Rory is doing just great with us. He's eaten well, been in two 30 minute walks, he's a dream on a lead. He gets on well with 3 yr old Tui. He likes to lean against you and I believe he'd stand next you all day given a chance! Such a loving gentle dog.

So pleased to see Rory has been fostered. :)) Xxx

Bless Rory. Well done whoever his foster parents are! How is he getting on? Xxx

Really pleased to see you are in a foster home Rory, hope it means you won't miss Kara quite so much. Be a good boy and surely someone will fall for that lovely little face soon. Thank you to your fosterers, I think we were all wondering if we could have made a space for you.

Been worrying about Rory since seeing Kara had been rehomed, so very relieved to see he has now been fostered. So hope he is doing ok and not missing Kara too much. xx

Good news Rory is in foster care, just hope he is going to be o.k. without Kara but sometimes when the opportunity of a home comes along it can't be refused. xx

Just seen that Rory has been fostered, I'm really happy, but sad too, he is so going to miss Kara, but well done sweetheart xxxxx

This boy is now all alone and is desperate for a home. Please give him a chance.

as i sit looking at my 2 11yr old greys and my 2 younger ones it breaks my heart to look at this old boy i would go to the end of the world rather than give any of them up life is a balancing act and you just have to adjust accordingly sometimes i would like more room on the sofa but what a small price to pay. Ruth introduced us to these lovely dogs 12 years ago and we have never looked back your forever home is there beautiful just you wait and see xxx

I agree with all of the below and sat in tears now after reading helenanddave's comment saying Kara is resting her head on Rory to comfort him just so so sad and makes me look at our boy who is sitting snuggled on a sofa in a holiday cottage in the lakes with us as we can't bare to be without him he comes with us, and makes me think just how lucky all of our pooches are. The only consolation is that these 2 have each other but I pray for a quick home for them. It's awful to think of any of them in kennels (even though daybreaks is wonderful and they are very lucky to be cared for there) as a home is what they all deserve, but these older hounds break my heart when I think of them back at kennels. Somebody wonderful will have them. Hugs and kisses to you both xxx

I agree it's very sad that these two lovelies have been returned, but let's concentrate on finding them a new home

Its very rare I comment when a poor hound finds itself back at kennels but to return such two beauties as Rory and Kara,especially poor Rory at nearly 10 sounds far too convenient to me and is very sad. When we adopted our first grey Don in 2008 a week later I was made redundant. We had to tighten the belt a bit but it gave me time to get Don settled down in his new home and time for us to become best friends for life.At no point did we consider returning him and when I returned to work it was part time as this was best for Don.No matter what comes along in life there is always a way round problems. We hope Rory and Kara are rehomed asap by kind people who won't give up on them no matter what Axx

Agree totally with everything you say

It's such a shame for any returned Grey's,they just get used to their home then back to the Kennals they go.I know people's surcumstances change but surley'put the Dog 1st',there is always a solution if you can be bothered to put yourself out a bit.Since we've had our Nifty we've had to change our routine,Mark works shirts at at JLR so every week is different for Nifty and he's been great apart from when Mark's on nights (he can't understand why Mark's in bed during the day and he's in the Kitchen so Mark's solution he's sleeps on the sofa with Nifty next to him.In POINT put yourself out these great hounds deserve it rant over x

Well said Jembob and Shanishoo, I agree totally. If the owners think so little of these two beauties they can return them this way then Rory and Kara are better off going to someone that will love and care for them the way they deserve. It's just appalling xx

Well said Jembob, all too often the phrase "due to work commitments" usually equates to "can't be bothered anymore". Just my opinion but it makes me so angry and sad to see these beautiful hounds dismissed so easily. Xxxxx

I met Rory today - what a gent! He’s a beautiful mature hound who really does not deserve to have been abandoned after such a short time. It’s a sad reflection on people who adopt two beautiful hounds but lack the commitment to see through their promise to care for them for the rest of their retirement. We all know what we are commiting to when we adopt any animal but to give up after 3 months is quite shameful in my view.
Rory is beautiful and deserves a loving home with his pal Kara. That can’t come soon enough.

Oh dear - this boy broke my heart today. He looks so very, very sad. Kara was in the kennel with him and stood resting her head on his back as if she was trying to comfort him. He is a very handsome gentleman and seemed to enjoy his morning walk. When i left the kennels this morning he was lying on the floor looking wistfully through the bars. So hoping a new home can be found for him and Kara very soon. Sending him my cuddle tonight. xx

It’s such a shame for this boy.
He was in a home for a number of years and went everywhere with his father. Then for exactly the same reason, work!!!!!, he was returned.
Twice now it just isn’t fair for this boy xxx

I can't stop thinking about Rory, poor old chap doesn't deserve to be back in kennels at his age, he so reminds me of my late greyhound Reggie, same beautiful colour and kind face, hope somebody takes him into their hearts and gives him the home he so needs, wish it could be us but sadly it can't. Big hugs to you Rory xxxxxx

Melysa, wish Rory was cat friendly, he would have loved a foster home with you all. Xxx

Sam and I would foster, but looking back on his comments he's definitely not cat friendly!

Oh Rory what a shame. You look a very handsome boy and I am looking forward to meeting you. xx

Oh you poor old boy. So sad for you xxx

Poor boy! I’m sure it won’t be too long till you get your home. Xx

Poor Rory, he's such a gorgeous boy who needs a forever home especially at his time of life, fingers crossed for you sweetheart xxxxxx

Sadly Rory has been returned to the kennels today. Due to extra work commitments his family feel they can no longer give him the time he needs. He was homed with Kara who has also been returned.

He is an older gentleman so really needs to find a new home as soon as possible. He is delightful and loves to lean. Xxx

Rory is settling in great, and good as gold

Lovely rehoming photo Rory, crikey you are handsome xxxxxxxx

Due to his owners change of circumstances Rory was returned yesterday :(( BUT by the end of the day he was reserved! Fantastic! :)))) Xxx

Rory - you are such a very handsome lad and we just love your ears ! and your expressions. Lots of love from Millie, Davey, Flynn and our mom and dad, xxxxx.

Good luck in your new home. Be happy

So pleased this lovely boy has been rehomed. Really wanted him myself but not possible. Have a fabuolous life Rory xx

Heard from Rory's owner today, he had a good night and has managed the stairs a few times, so looks like all is well - so pleased.

So glad to read that you have been rehomed today Rory. I wish you all the happiness in the world and you have a wonderful life with your new family. I told you that the right family would come along and fall in love with you.

Be good dear Rory, shall miss our leaning sessions but it's the best news I have had in a while. xxx

Really glad that Rory has found his forever home but missing him already! No longer need to go searching in his bed for anything that has gone missing from the kitchen - wooden spoons, bags of onions, tea towels. I'm sure he'll be really happy in his new home.

Rory you lovely boy, your sofa has arrived.

Love The New Icemaid Clan xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

OMG - I was so excited to see that you have at last been reserved my dear Rory. Sorry I haven't been giving you lots of cuddles recently but I have not been to good myself but this along with the beautiful day we have had is the best tonic in the world. I hope that everything goes well for you and hopefully we will still get updates on your progress. All my love Auntie Ann xxx

Only one more day until Rory goes to his forever home! He is absolutely adorable and really coming out of himself. He loves his cuddles and is just a total softy. He's becoming more and more inquisitive every day and is an absolute character. I'm sure there is still more to come, once he settles down. He is currently sitting upright in his bed watching my son eat a bowl of home-made popcorn - correction, he has now decided that as we're watching a movie, my son should be sharing it with everyone else!

Ahhh good to see lovely Rory reserved! Be happy lovely boy

Ah, well done Rory - delighted for you. Be happy. xx

What a beautiful looking boy, love those ears

So,so pleased for the gorgeous Rory. What took you so long "Floppy Lugs"!!! Live long & be happy fella - you've earned it. XXX.

Great news Rory. Love to you and your new family.
The New Icemaid Clan xxxx

So pleased, what a wonderful Easter present for Rory, a new home! xxx

You seemed to have bagged yourself a lovely new mum and dad you lucky boy X.

So so pleased for you Rory and you won,t have to wait long either I really hope that you have a wonderful life on your forever sofa well done lovely boy xx

Great news, Rory is now reserved and his forever home is hopefully only a week away.

Just been watching Rory and our grey (Lucy) racing around the garden, frolicking in the snow together, lovely to see. 30 seconds later, flaked out on the floor shattered!

Hi everyone, just a quick update about Rory. Have spoken with Ruth today and we have agreed that it probably isn't worth bringing him down today because of the weather and likely lack of people looking to home. However if anyone does want to see him they can come to our house to see him in his environment Ruth and the guys at the kennel have our contact details. On to the lad himself, what can we say - after a week of upheaval, new home, birthday, vet visit etc... he has done us proud. He is a regular tail wagger and a real sociable chap. Have just been playing snow balls with him and he really loves nothing more than playing fetch with his ball in the garden. We have had bed swapping, water swapping and no territorial issues at all. A real great lad I will be sending some photos to Ruth soon so that she can update Facebook and you can all see what a totally relaxed dog he is

Beautiful boy and what fab ears.

Hi

I know I shouldn't giggle but Geoff just went out the front door and it was really funny to hear Rory sliding around on the wooden flooring in his haste to get there. He didn't get there in time but leapt up at the porch door to try and see where Geoff had gone.

Thanks for everyones kind words about Rory. Last night and today we left him unmuzzled and alone with Lucy, our grey as his attitude and temperament have been so calm, placid and docile. He gets really excited and eager at walk times, is fascinated by the freedom of the garden and all the strange sounds, visitors and events going on around our home. He still leans into you and only this evening I was fussing Lucy and felt a gentle nudge followed by the "Lean" from Rory- that was all he wanted and he stayed that way, content for about 10 mins while Lucy was fussed. His limp has massively improved although he did overdo it a touch when I took him for a short trot to catch up with Lucy and meet my wife in the park tonight. Rory will be back at Daybreaks around 11ish on Saturday and hopefully someone will see the real him and be there to offer his forever home. He is a sweet dog constantly seeking reassurance and someone to love. It won't take too long from what we've seen since Saturday

So glad to hear Rory settling in well. He, apparently, shared with female greys & I think that's what he missed. My home was too much for him & we saw behaviour that will never appear again. Lovely dog, I'm still sorry we put him in such a stressful environment & I'm glad people can now see his behaviour was a blip brought on by being in totally the wrong foster home & with 2 male dogs (1 who was quite put out he was there). I think Rory does like to be in charge a tiny bit & a lady will keep an eye on him! Hope his ears are still as expressive as ever! Hx

Hi Rory, looks like you're enjoying being in your foster home and behaving yourself like a good boy. I hope someone gives you a chance in a forever home soon xx

Hi Lucysmum I wouldn't be too worried ... these greyhound girls are very forceful in their own charming way :) My Lucy wanted Charlie's bed which is next to the radiator- she plonked herself in it with him and a couple of times he growled at her so she moved off ... but came back later LOL. She's carried on sneaking into his bed now he's decided that he doesn't really want that bed he'd much rather have the window seat so he can watch what's going on in the road LOL I believe him LOL J x

So pleased Rory's doing well x Riley is doing great had 3nights sleeping straight threw he's beautiful calm boy we renamed him he was boo at the kennels

We've had some bed-swapping going on at our house. When my daughter got home from college yesterday, Lucy was on Rory's bed and he was on hers. I was a little concerned as he is quite a forceful chap, always wants to be first to get to us and has a habit of pushing past Lucy to get there first and she has been looking a little subdued - no doubt she is finding it strange having a new dog in the house. However, there was no need to be worried as after their walk this morning she walked over to his bed and plonked herself down and he, seeing that she had taken up residence, promptly climbed onto her bed. So it looks like this is an amicable arrangement!

Happy belated birthday Rory. I'm so pleased to hear how well Rory is doing with you all and Lucy. You are doing a brilliant job of fostering him. Thank you so much.

Hi folks, thanks for all of your kind wishes and thoughts for Rory on his birthday. Thought we would give you all an update - over the weekend his limp deteriorated significantly to the extent that he could put no weight on his front paw. Having spoken with Ruth we took him to the vets this evening and the good news is that it is nothing serious, merely a strained tricep muscle and some callousing on one of his pads. He's had an injection and has some tablets - so no wine tonight!! Hopefully, once the drugs start to kick in, we'll start to see the real Rory come through. We've already started to see this but it must be difficult with the discomfort he's been in as the best of us struggle when we're not feeling well. However, today was his first day home alone with Lucy and we had no problems. He was really happy when we got back from the vets, he's had lots of treats, some macaroni and cheese with his dinner and even left us alone for the first time whilst we were snacking this evening (well done Rory!). He's spent the rest of the evening sprawled out on his bed sparked out - what a life!

Happy birthday to gorgeous rory- you are doing so well in your foster home I,m so proud of you- big thanks to lucysmum who has made him feel so welcome and loved I,m sure that forever sofa is just around the corner xx

Happy birthday you look such a lovely boy x

Happy birthday x

Happy Birthday Rory! xxx

Happy Birthday Rory! Have a fab day in your foster home. Not too much cake mind! x

Happy Birthday! So glad things are looking up for you. Say hello to Eric for me! X

Happy Birthday to you, havea lovely day.

Happy Birthday to you, havea lovely day.

Happy Birthday Rory! Hope you have a lovely day - just keep away from the wine!!! xx

Hope you enjoy your birthday - I'm sure you'll get lots of treats to make your tail wag even more!

Happy Birthday Rory x

Just for clarity, there have been no real issues between the two dogs. They have happily slept in the same room together, albeit Rory is muzzled if we're not around as a precaution. Quite early on, Rory lay next to our grey's bed to sleep and when we got up this morning, our grey was asleep on the floor next to his bed which he is now happily using. Both dogs have full run of the house and we haven't needed to separate them. They walk together on the lead beautifully but are just happy to give each other space when at home. Although we thought our dog may have been lonely alone in the house in the past, this does not seem to be the case as she is not bothered either way about Rory's presence. Rory doesn't seem to mind that our dog is let off the lead in the local park and has met several dogs today all of different sizes, ages and temperaments and was quite happily wagging his tail, which was lovely to see. One of them, same breed as in Turner and Hooch, who was quite strong and boisterous licked Rory's muzzle and Rory didn't bat an eyelid.

Rory reminds me in some ways of our grey Jet when we had him. On the first evening at home, I went towards him & our female grey followed me,but we were greeted by a frightened growling grey who drew his lips so far back that I could see most of his teeth & gums, so we retreated hastily!
He was possessive of 'his' corner & 'his' bed & we were determined to stop this. As he was nervous, we had to use his lead to move him; so every time we came back from a walk, he was led to a different corner & had to sit on a different bed (that already smelt of our other grey because he also had problems accepting her). At first, she could not walk passed him without being growled at. I spent Wimbledon fortnight watching tennis & dog training at the same time. I began with both dogs muzzled & went thru' various stages (& lots of treats ) until I had both dogs unmuzzled & she could walk passed him without a growl.
The dogs slept unmuzzled in different rooms; she liked to sleep upstairs while Jet has never been able to master the stairs. It was a couple of months before we felt confident to leave them alone in the house unmuzzled together & only for a short time initially.
Sadly, that female grey is no longer with us & when we had another, Jet adapted quickly, showing how scary homes & people can initially be! Every grey is different & that's why we all love them so much.
Now,when Jet lies on his back, pawing the air & wanting his tummy tickled while our other grey saunters passed, we see how much he has changed & that's what makes all our effort worthwhile.
If anyone has problems with their grey, there's valuable advice available from the kennels & there's also this website where there are those who have been there or done that or even bought the thundershirt!
I'm glad to hear Rory seems to be adapting to his foster home well. Good luck - may be you will come to the same decision we did; despite initial problems there's a 'greyt' grey to be found that you'd like to keep(in return for time & patience)- that's what makes it so rewarding.

Just a quick update to say how proud we are of him. 1st night in a new environment and NO toilet issues at all.

Forgot to mention, when we met him this morning he looked so dejected and forlorn and I fully understood why nobody has taken him home. However, once away from the kennels he became a totally different dog. He's very alert and inquisitive, quite the opposite of our dog and certainly keeps us on our toes as he's curious about everything as I suppose everything's new to him (including my glass of rioja which he found briefly, much to my disgust as I had to throw it away). He also follows us everywhere, wondering where we're going every time we move - my daughter has just arrived home from work and he's leaning against her for company.

Hi Guys

Rory has settled in with us really well, made himself totally at home, not keen on his bed yet, prefers the floor or the sofa when we're not around to kick him off. We've had a few toilet training issues, totally understandable but we're working on them and now send him out whenever he has a drink which seems to be working. He and our 8 year old grey are happy ignoring each other. He's been playing fetch in the lounge/diner with a tennis ball with our son which was really great to watch as our grey has no concept of bringing the ball back or handing it over afterwards. We went out for dinner for a couple of hours with no issues and he was very attentive to our friends when we all returned. He loves nothing more than to lean into you whilst having a fuss and much as we tried to give him space today, he had no intention of leaving us alone. We all watched a film this afternoon and he lay up against the foot of the sofa whilst my daughter tickled his chin/neck and whenever she stopped, he prompted her for more.

Rory is still available for homing, we will post more details in a couple of days time once he has fully settled in to our routine.

What a lovely family that took you home today. After limping down the lane on walkies you skipped down the drive with them!
And... Wispas mum tells me they reported your tail as wagging when playing with Lucy in the garden. Brought a tear to my eye, I have never seen you wag ever. Good luck & big hugs Rory. Xx

Ah Rory my boy this is such lovely news - well done. Be a good boy and enjoy your time out in the big world. Special cuddles for you, and all best wishes to your foster family. x

Oh beautiful Rory I hope that you enjoy being out of kennels and in your foster home hopefully you will have a permanent loving home soon

I hope Rory in a foster home which is much more suitable than ours was. At my home there are 3 boys, 1 very big male greyhound & a puppy whippet. There's a whole host of noises & the washing machine is rarely off. My home (& the people in it esp the animals) we too much for Rory. Without all the extras at my house Rory will be a kind & gentle dog. If I didn't have other dogs-he would live at my house & I'm confident there won't be any issues with him at all if he doesn't have to share a small space with other dogs. Good luck Rory, I'm sorry I didn't give you the experience of home you needed. Helen x

Ah Rory - so happy to see that you've been fostered again. Stay calm and be good and hopefully your forever home is just around the corner xx

Rory what can I say, but we love you and hubby well at this time and moment to take on no. 4 but me being what I am will work on it. You are special, take care.
Love the New Icemaid clan xxxxxxxx

Just look at those "good boy" ears I love you Rory x

Rory looked totally fed up yesterday and didn't want to go back into his kennel after his walk down the lane.I took him and my little lurcher up to Elmdon Park for a longer walk.He traveled well with Milly she in the front and Rory in the back.He thoroughly enjoyed his walk but was a little perplexed by the sight of several geese and assorted ducks.The pair of them spotted a squirrel of great interest but both were well behaved no noise and no lunging.
He did whip round on the lead when an off lead spaniel ran towards him again no noise or lunging -just curiosity.Rory was happy to walk side by side with Milly he did lean into me a bit and enjoyed lots of cuddles.He is a lovely boy who will be a lovely companion he just needs to be out of kennels.It was quite sad when we arrived back as he didn't want to go back into the kennels he is a boy who just wants to be out and and about and receive lots of love which I am sure he will return by the bucketful.There are lots of positives about Rory and I urge anyone considering a grey to have a look at him.In the right home he will be absolutely fab.

Still thinking about you Rory. If we could have another grey you would definitely be the one. Hope your forever home is just around the coner x

I just wanted to say I hope that someone who is thinking of homing Rory isn't put off. Everyone at Daybreaks helps to find the right home for a greyhound and it can't work out everytime as it hasn't in Rory's foster home. I am new to owning greyhounds and made mistakes with Walter and he had to tell me quite firmly before I realised we had been stressing him out with all our cuddles. Now I understand his boundaries & stop the moment he tells me something is worrying him. This happens less & less now & he is a proper fuss-pot! Obviously something's are harder to sort out & in this case it was clearly too much for Rory but that isn't a negative thing. In my mind that's part of the reason lovely people help out by offering foster homes. It helps dogs to find the right home, whether that's without kids & other pets. It will just mean that when Rory's new owner comes along they will have lots of information about him & hopefully understand him. Good luck Rory you sound like you will be a perfect match for someone willing to take a bit if time to listen to you. Xxx

Oh Rory, I'm sorry to hear that things didn't work out at your foster home - I have been busy this week and I thought tonight I wonder how my Rory is getting on. Still I bet it's nice to see Auntie Ruth and the girls again.

I will have to try my best to come and visit you asap but only on the understanding that you don't give me your sad face like you did the last time I saw you as you made me feel sad and later when I thought of you the tissues made an appearance.

Love you lots xxx

Have given you my cuddle today, sorry to here you are back - hopefully won't be for long.

I walked him on Sunday morning and he was a charming dog.
He walked well with no pulling and was fine with the other dogs we were with.
He will be a lovely addition to someones family once a suitable home is found for him!!

Hi Rory, sorry we never made it at the weekend after all. Here's hoping that your forever home isn't too far away, you will make someone a wonderful pet xx

I think you did exactly the right thing bringing Rory back - there is no reason to risk a bite to a child or anyone else- that would be devastating. Our dogs are fantastic have come from a very different environment to just about any other dog in other rehoming kennels. When I am looking for another dog I take my current dog to meet with the new one and start off by walking on neutral territory so there's no hint of 'my home turf ' , when family or other visiting dogs come to call we always take them 5 minutes down the road and back again to remind them of each other, the new (or visiting) dog goes into the house first so the 'old' dog isn't tempted to guard his house and this has worked well for me. I tend to allow my new dog to settle in for about a week - I take up all toys and food so minimise any scope for arguments and I don't make a fuss of them for a few days. I carefully watch the interaction between my dogs and will step in if I think a squabble is about to start but I leave the new dog to understand and slot into his new world as its so different from the very quiet, calm, kennel routine they've just come from. I ask everyone to leave the dog alone as one thing people tend to love to do is gaze deeply into their dogs eyes and cuddle them (I do :) )- check out the great book by Turid Rugaas 'On Talking Terms with Dogs' Calming Signals and you'll see from the pictures just how uncomfortable dogs are being hugged and cuddled (tho many learn to enjoy it :) ) and think of a strange dog approaching yours ... it's usually staring straight at your dog which is another signal that its approach is aggressive :( In my experience greys can be very stressed but appear quiet and accepting, I think of it as 'shutdown' and stressed, dog language is like our own ...if we don't think we're being listened to we get louder and may even grab/push the person we're talking to in an effort to get our message over - dogs do the same and will use a stare, body posture, growl, snarl even bite if whatever scares/frightens them doesn't go away- they will usually have tried to tell you by going through their language/signals (looking away, licking lips, yawning, blinking) but aren't being listened to- the secret is to step in and diffuse the situation before it gets up to the growling stage or even before - I know a lot of what my lurcher can't cope with so I avoid walking where loose dogs will run at him for instance. Our greys have usually had little if any contact with children and kiddies can be very scarey for any dog - they sound different to an adult, they move differently and they need careful watching to make sure they don't think the dog just another big fluffy toy and think they can pull it about or sit on it - I'd be inclined to bite anyone who did that to me :) Our greys have usually been always paired up in training kennels and really enjoy the company of another grey tho my lurcher would completely agree with Rory - my grey Lucy loves to wash dogs ears and Charlie has had a couple of growls at her before she realised that he didn't want super clean lugs. Another really good read is a book called Dominance in Dogs by Barry Eaton which explains how dogs are not wolves and debunks the pack structure myth ...interestingly even the group of American scientists who started the 'Wolves are Dogs and vice versa' have now said that they got it wrong - they did study feral wolves but in a large but restricted area so the crucial resources such as food and territory were limited and it was survival of the fittest and most dominant (just think Big Brother LOL), now they've studied wolves in areas where food and space is unlimited and they find that wolves live in family groups, the youngsters stay with their family and their mates join the group as there's no need to fight- there's enough food and space to keep everyone happy :) This theory of dominance always confused me - I have the tin opener or scissors for the dog food so surely I'm always in charge of the ultimate resource .. tho it's only a matter of tiem before Charlie lurcher masters tin openers- he can do doors and drawers. That's the beauty of dogs for me - we learn something new all the time :) Best wishes Julie

I feel that people sometimes do not understand the fact that all dogs are not always suited to all prospective homes [whether they are to be permanent or foster homes]. In my opinion where young children are involved their safety must come first.Although fostering can be very rewarding, it is sometimes a difficult thing to do and should not come at the expense of the home`s status quo. I completely agree with your comments and wish you all the best with Marco. I can only hope he will be as good for you as Zac was for us.( Zac is now in his new home and we miss him).

Honeypen, couldn't agree with you more and you make perfect sense. Although it was a shame to see Rory back at the kennels, there was no way you could risk the safety of either your children or your own established dogs - not fair on anyone involved. As you quite rightly say, your home just wasn't the right one for Rory - I know how awful we felt when we fostered Davey but had to return him after 4 days as he was becoming withdrawn and lethargic, our home environment wasn't right for him and he needed the company of other dogs - but just look at him now! Each Grey has their own personality and needs, it's a matter of matching them to the right home and at least now prospective owners will know about Rory's need for quiet and calm surroundings - and cuddles! Thanks for giving it a go, and all best wishes with Marco. x

Me again! I forgot to say. When looking for a new dog a lot of places leave little comments about their likes & dislikes & how they will best be rehomed-ie no children, no cats, best suited to quiet home, females only, needs older female companion etc. These are all snippets of advice given so a prospective owner can choose from the right list for their circumstances. Not cat safe means they're the most adorable dog going but get a cat in your house & things will get very messy! They are sighthounds after all. Ruth has explained to you what needs quiet home with no other pets means & that is Rory & many, many other animals all over the world. The description sounds worrying & shocking & I understand that but all of these short descriptions used mean a reality that new owners won't see because the dog has been assessed prior to rehoming. With Rory a new owner will be very lucky because he's fine out & about with other dogs just can't cope sharing his little space with another because he's afraid of what will happen to him. All of these greys come with a story behind their eyes. My Henry must collect things in his bed. There's a reason why & we chuckle about it because its harmless but this is still his way of coping & showing that his time as a racer & in a racing kennel was stressful. These animals just need a bit of tlc & a comfy bed for their poor aching bones & each animal is suitable to a different home. I hope I've made sense on this subject. As long as we follow the instructions for any animal we will always see them at their best.

Hi everyone. I'm the foster mum who took Rory home. I came to kennels to pick up coats & left with Rory! I brought my 3 year old son with me who he showed no problems with whatsoever & had met my whippet before so I felt confident about the fostering.
I arrived at my house after a long journey (we were caught up in the terrible accident traffic & our ride home took hours instead of 20 minutes). He sat well in the boot &, on arriving home, did a wee outside before going in. He took treats from my 3 year old with gentle teeth.
We went into the house & straight into the garden where he met Henry the greyhound & Jasper the whippet. They sniffed, wagged & after a while ran about & played happily.
Food time was great, no issues & then he stood by me for lots of fuss.
After a while he found a chewy bone which my 2 hadn't been interested in & I'd forgotten we had-he perhaps found under Jaspers bed. I saw him happily chewing & felt this was a chance to see how he was with my children. Each of us took his bone from him over a period of 30 minutes & he was absolutely as he should be. This confirmed my thoughts he saw my sons as above him in the pack.
At 7pm I took him & Henry for a walk. He walked well with Henry but does like cats as much as Henry!
He was clean in my home & made no attempt to toilet in the house.
On returning home we came back (my sons asleep in bed) so it was just me, my husband & the dogs. Rory went into his bed....with his bone. It was now after 8pm & he was tired. When in his crate, chewing his toy, Jasper the whippet walked past him & this is when we saw his behaviour that has been mentioned. He growled & bared his teeth to Jasper. I gently scolded him (usual gentle a-a with greys) & once his bone was gone he lay down to sleep. During that time, the dogs walked past he would quickly stand & repeat the behaviour. An hour or so later I was in the kitchen (9.30pm ish) & I stood bit too near to him (the dogs toddling about still) & we had another episode of growling etc.
It was then my husband & I decided we should think about returning him because we have young children who, with the best will in the world, do not follow instructions & are unpredictable. Couple this with Rorys newly seen fear & we couldnt guarantee what could happen.
My home was the wrong environment for him. That said, he had a super night, clean bed & out playing with my dogs & children again in the morning. We had witnessed behaviour we knew could frighten such young children (my one son has autism which makes it more complicated) & we had to air on the side of caution. He was showing signs of possessiveness with his bed & treat. We had to think imagine if Rory were sat with a child & one of my dogs came too near to him. The natural behaviour would be directed to the dog but sometimes people get caught up in situations. Anyone with children know you would die for them so we had to return him. It wasn't the right environment for him. I've seen Rory many times & he's a lovely, lovely dog. He just isn't ok to be homed with other male dogs-who knows what he's been through during his racing years. The reason I felt no other dogs (even though he shares well with females) is to quash the bed/treat issues. No other dog to pinch his precious treat which he's probably hardly had before & no growling.
He's absolutely fine with dogs when out but not cat safe. The only reason we returned him was because we had to be cautious about dog to dog behaviour around children but mostly because we found out very quickly that he needs a home with no other animals. It was just too much for him & makes me feel he's had an issue with dogs whilst in his racing kennels. He's stressed & when we're stressed we don't behave as we normally do.
I know what has been written about Rory won't show him in his best light but I would urge someone who wants a first & only greyhound to take him & see how he really is. I will be more than happy to speak to anyone who would like to discuss his time with my family. He is great with children but I felt an older child would be best because they'll have a better understanding of giving an animal tlc & not lying all over him/running about by him & using noisy toys etc. He just wants calm, cosy &cuddles.
I think he reached other dog in his space overload over the last few days &, I feel, it reminded him of whatever happened to him in his past. He saw other smaller dogs on his walk & he was fine it purely is an issue when he wants to rest & relax & must've been terrified something would happen to him at the hands of my dogs & when he felt so vulnerable.
We feel so sad for him & hope someone can see past the worry they're taking a savage beast home & realise they will have a calm, quiet, loving & loyal companion & friend.

I wasn't going to put on a comment but feel I ought to. Rory went to a foster home on Friday but came back yesterday as he had been baring his teeth at the family. We think he found it a little overwhelming with the other dogs, children and his new surroundings and was quite protective over his treats - which is totally understandable.

On his return to the kennels, Rory had been fine in the run with 3 of my greys and then came in to the office to have some extra TLC when a visiting dog also came into the office. Unfortunately the visiting dog thought it would be nice to 'wash' his ears which he took exception to and poor Farah, our volunteer who was holding him at the time ended up with a bite to her finger in the process :-(((((( A trip to A&E and the finger in question is ok, although very sore but Rory sadly ended up back in his kennel.

We feel that Rory would love a home where he would be the only dog (although he has been happily kennelled with others in the past) and perhaps older children. With a manic week ahead, I am unable to take him home at the moment so if anyone is able to offer this fella a chance, please give me a call. He loves to lean, he loves his cuddles, he happily ate his treat in the office and I was able to take this off him and give it back to him several times with no food aggression. He really has got a lot to give to the right home.

He broke my heart yesterday as his eyes seemed so sad but his chance will come when the time is right x

Wow I was so pleased to see that a really kind person has fostered Rory, he is such a handsome boy and would really benifit in spending some time in a home, this has made my night !!! I will go to bed happy !!! Congratulations Rory x

I think he looks like a bobby :) he is adorable xxx

Oh Rory, so glad that you have been fostered as when I saw you this afternoon you looked so sad and fed up. If I had got a handbag bigger enough I would have taken you home with me so that I could have given you cuddles all night long.

Just be good and enjoy your break from the kennels and you never know you could end up with a permanent home very soon, fingers crossed.

I look forward to seeing updates about you and will be so glad to see the rehomed sign very soon.

Love you xxx

I would like to suggest a couple of names - derived from the studbook Coolavanny - Kuhlio or Kooga?

A Rory in the news Mr Mcllroy how about MAC?

So happy to see you've been fostered Rory!! I'm sure he loves staying with you Honeypen. I put forward the name Dash...because he's so dashingly handsome (and he'd probably dash around off the lead too if he got a chance). Hope his walk goes well x

How fab that you have taken this gorgeous boy home for some spoiling I really don,t know why he hasn,t been snapped up but at least now he has the next best thing x

Forgot to say....things are a bit confusing here at the moment. Our eldest son is called Rory, too. Any suggestions?!? Rory a super name (I know because I chose it for my son) but it'll be too confusing with Rorys. Suggestions welcome please! X

Hi everyone. I have taken little Rory home with me this afternoon so he can be in a home until he's rehomed. He's a super, super dog, so far done all toileting in the house, is great with my young children & has already made friends with my 8 month old little whippet. Poor Henry felt a bit put out by Rorys arrival out of the blue & he growled at him but, other than that, its all been fine. No food aggression, just a lovely dog. He does like to lean on your legs for comfort! Off for a walk in a while now they've had tea. I'll let you all know how he gets on! X

Ah Rory, this is so nice that you have found a foster home to stay in. You will be a much happier boy and learn all about life in the big, wide world! Be a good boy. xx

Hi Rory. Hope we can come at the weekend & take you walking ( and have a lean too of course!) x

Oh Rory you are such a gorgeous boy - a lovely cuddly leaner who needs a special sofa.

Well hopefully I will be able to come and see you tomorrow Rory so you know you'll get a big cuddle then but to keep you going here's one to tied you over.

Did you manage to get your walk in the sunshine today, I hope so. Hopefully spring is just around the corner and maybe there will be more visitors to the kennels and you can smile and play ball with them to show what a good boy you are.

See you soon xxx

Oh Rory, what a fuss pot you are, enjoyed a cuddle from this lovely lad today! xxx

Oh dear, poor Rory, I feel guilty for stealing his mate from him. Hope he won't have to wait long now for his own chance. Have a big cuddle Rory. xx

Hiya Rory

I am glad to see that you are getting lots of cuddles now and hope that you are not so sad.

I see that alot of your friends have been rehomed in the last week or so, I know that your turn will not be far off.
Look how long it took for Buster to be rehomed but he is now settled and having a whale of a time.

I just cannot understand why it is taking so long as you are a beautiful looking grey and so good when you go out walking even with complete strangers like I was - and before you answer that yes I know I'm strange but I just cannot help it where pets are concerned.

Lots of love & hugs xxx

I can't believe little Rory hasn't been snapped up yet! He's adorable I'm mean LOOK at those ears just LOOK! He's a very dashing colour and if you do rehome him you would be very privileged to have a dog with that sort of colour xx when you go up to his kennel you just look at him and you melt those eyes are gorgeous!

I've cuddled Rory today, my husband had the pleasure of meeting him a couple of weeks ago and really took to him. Hope this lovely boy gets a home soon xx

oh rory you are one good looking boy !! amazing colour, I am keeping my fingers crossed that your forever home is just around the corner !! x

I am absolutely in love with Rory and would adopt him in an instant if I didn't live in a flat. My family adopted Brandy a few years ago and she is so wonderful - such a joy to have around. I hope Rory finds his forever home soon and I wish he could come to live with me. His new photo is adorable :)

I love photos 1, 6 and 7. Surely, he'll touch someone's heart with those lovely portraits ? :O)

And another.....and a kiss from Daisy too. x

Cuddle for Rory.

He looks a real sweet boy.

How are you today Rory? Hello Auntie Ann, well still no sign of my new mommy & daddy, people come look at me and walk on by. If you look no one has even given me a cuddle today, I'm so sad.

Don't worry I'll give you a big cuddle to get the ball rolling. I know it seems a long time to wait but hopefully I will be able to see you on Friday. You never know by then something wonderful may have happened, can only keep my fingers crossed for you. Keep smiling Rory - all my love xxx

Rory just gets more adorable in every photo! xx

Hi gorgeous Rory. Loving your ears in your new pic. I notice they even found a brindle floor to match your coat! xx

I think this is Rorys week x

Love the new picture of Rory! Xxx shows how cute he isxx

I love this new picture of Rory! I have met Rory the day I brought my 3 year old son & 8 month old whippet to Daybreaks to find an older companion for my whippet. He really was a super pooch & will make a wonderful life long friend for someone or a family. He was great with my son & didn't bat an eyelid over our tiny whippet. He was on my very short list but Henry seemed to bond better with our pooch than with Rory. By no means am I saying Rory was anti social though! He's a lovely boy & will make a super companion. A really nice dog. I hope he finds the right home soon x

I'm sorry that I was not able to visit yesterday and take you for a walk Rory but at the last minute something came up and I had to do something else but don't worry I still think about you each day. If I could I would love to be able to give you your loving home but at the moment I'm living in accomodation which does not allow pets. Any way enough about me - how are you going? I cannot understand why you haven't been rehomed by now, Auntie Ruth tells me that it is usually the black greys that have a hard job finding a home. Is it because you want to be able to pick your new mommy and daddy - don't worry they will arrive at the kennels very shortly, I hope.

Hopefully I will try hard to see you next Friday - a new month, a new home, we can only keep our fingers crossed for you. With lots of cuddles and kisses and hopefully a big red label will be seen soon. Love Auntie Ann xxx

Rory has certainly found his personality he was very vocal today when I was at the kennels - I was trying to coax Bertie into coming for a fuss when he just bounced straight across he had a good sniff of my 3 greys and then that was it he was bored with us and promptly sat down again you are a lovely boy such gorgeous colours

Lovely Rory, why aren't you reserved? You are such a gorgeous boy. I hope you find a home soon.

Rory gets my cuddle today, what a lovely looking chap, I bet my girls would fancy you Rory, but sadly we couldn't accomodate you at the moment. Fingers crossed you get a home very soon xx

Oh Rory, so sorry you don't get on with small furries or we'd offer to foster you.

I love Rory to bits. So wish we could foster him, but the logisitics of it with mad Silla is just not going to work. He could come & be a house dog and get lots of cuddles & fuss, but can't accomodate walking & car space I'm afraid. So sorry Rory xx

Sorry Rory you can't move in with me as Gracie the cat would onject. Sorry given my cuddle to Bertie today. Keepin being a good boy and you never know....

Oh dear that's a shame it rules us out to foster him.

.....sadly.....a big NO! :-((((

Hi Ruth, Did Rory pass his cat test? X

Can't believe this gorgeous boy is still here!

Poor Rory, sad to hear he is unhappy. xxx

If anyone fancies fostering Rory I would be really grateful. He has been unhappy since we rehomed his kennel mate and has been wetting the bed since this. Due to having extras at home already I can't take him just yet :-(((( Everything will be provided for those considering fostering - all we need is your time and patience for him x

Oh Rory what are you not doing, didn't expect you to still be wanting a new home. Hang in there. I have given you my cuddle.

Hiya Rory, I'm a bit surprised that you haven't been reserved by now as you are such a hadsome lad and so well behaved. I enjoyed our walk on Friday, I do agree that you like to lean against us humans but that's only because you want extra hugs and love. You need to give a big smile when people come to see you and say "take me please, I'm a good boy". I will give you a big cuddle today and hope to see the reserved sign very soon. Love Auntie Ann xxxxx

Can't believe this handsome lad has'nt been snapped up yet! He gets my cuddlle today. X.

Rory is an incredibly good looking and very friendly lad. I am sure it won't be long before he gets the home of his dreams. xxx

Ah Rory, if only houndie number 1 would behave and accomodate a houndie number 2! You would be it gorgeous boy. Hope someone falls for your Irish charm soon xx

I had no qualms that Rory would be a good boy at Stratford today and I just hope that it has some good results for him. With Zac being reserved today, I feel Rory will not be far behind as they are quite similar in character.

Rory went on the Stratford walk today he was an absolute angel.He took everything in his stride on his first big walk outside of kennels.He ignored a couple of very loud guard dogs and wasn't fazed with the non greyhounds on the walk including a Beddlington terrier and 3 legged beagle? who got very close to him.He is one of those boys that likes to lean into you and loves to be cuddled. Rory has stunning markings and his coat is silky smooth, he was very much admired on the walk.He is a lemon brindle and would be at home with me right now if I was allowed another dog.
He is a truly handsome boy who is fed up with kennel life so maybe he is the one for you.Pop down and take a peek you wont be disappointed.

Our first male doggie was a blue brindle from daybreaks they are quite simply beautiful and having met the lovely Rory today I think he will be snapped up xx

A strikingly handsome boy! I've never seen a grey brindle before. He won't be in kennels for long.

Rory always looks quite chilled when we see him in kennels and he always seems to be sleeping on the floor instead of the bed, lol. lovely lad, hope you get spotted this weekend Rory! xxx

Gorgeous boy hope I get to visit him soon might have to grab him! xx

What a beautiful looking boy. Love the last picture

This boy is so handsome and such a gentleman. He is fairly big, but so well behaved on his lead and he walks beautifully. Cuddles for you my lovely feller! x

What a handsome hound...a lovely unusual colour! xxx

You get my cuddle today. I have been telling Gemma about you and that you are gorgeous.

I love the bottom photo of Rory, he looks a character.

What a lovely face, he looks so shaggy :) if i was closer i would be tempted x

I've just fallen in love. What a beauty :)

Gorgeous! Rory Gallagher was my ultimate guitar hero, so anyone called Rory (especially a beautiful hound) is OK by me!

What a handsome fella you are. Wishing I had the time and space for any of you. Will have to think of moving in future as in first floor maisonette. Although am a cat person too.
You can have my cuddle today.
Annaxxx

Ooooooo hello Rory, you handsome boy! x

Oh wow! What a stunner! Please can we have a pic without coat so we can see his full colouring.

He is soooooo handsome and cute!! I hope he is there on Saturday so I can meet him x