Utterly utterly devastated. I can't find the words to express how desperately sad and upset I am. Jack, you were the best think that happened in my life and you brought laughs, happiness and fun on a grand scale. You will be missed so much. Go free my boy xxxxxxx

Jack was the first dog I ever fostered and he will always have a special place in my heart. I often thought about him and wondered how he was getting on in his home - I still cannot quite believe that he has passed on.

Jack showed me, my mum, my boyfriend and his parents just how fantastic greyhounds could be. If it wasn't for Jack, I doubt that I would've had Minnie. If it wasn't for Jack, I don't believe that Martin would've kept Poppy.

I am utterly devastated that his time came too soon. Jack was just the best of the best and I will always remember him as such.

Jack was a lovely sweet-natured boy who had earned a long retirement - my thoughts and hugs go to Claire who fostered and cared for him and to Debs. Love Julie x

I have spent quite a bit of time with Jack and am devasted at his loss.

Thinking of Jack's family who must be heartbroken. Run free gorgeous boy xXx

Thinking of your family. Run free boy. X

Rest in peace beautiful boy! X

Such sad news , thinking of the family. Run free jack. Ann and ellie may.x

My love and thoughts are with your family. Run free boy. Xxx

So sorry for the family. LOVE AND THOUGHTS TO YOU.
From The New Icemaid Clan XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

So sorry for Jack and his family,just been checking his family tree and he is half brother to our blue and born on the same day,Im sure you gave him a great life,and in time you'll remember the good times, thinking of you, take care x

So very sorry to hear about Jack. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting him, I followed his ups and downs on the Daybreaks website. He was a real character. I feel desperately sad for his family. God bless lovely Jack. Xxx

Very sad news. I once met Jack, with his Mum at Kings Heath Park, lovely lady and her son, what a shame, god bless x

This is such very sad news. My thoughts are with his mum and his human brother who must be feeling vey low right now.
Also my thoughts go out to Clare (& little Milly) who I know looked after Jack recently. She will be devasted too.

Sleep tight precious boy Linda (with Lola & Lena) x

I am so so so sorry to hear about Jack , he will be missed so much, he was suce a lovely hound xxxxxx Thinking about you at this sad time xxxx

I am absolutely heartbroken to receive the news that sadly Jack died in very unfortunate circumstances. His owner is devastated and my thoughts are with her and her son who were absolutely devoted to him. Run free Jack xxxxxxxx

it was such a pleasure to see handsome jack today with his proud new mum and human brother. he is looking stunning and he seems so very happy and relaxed. he is a very spoilt hound and got to choose a new toy chicken today which he proudly carried into the car. lovely to meet you Nicola after speaking to you on the phone previously. xxxx

I have spoken to Jack's new owner Nicky today and he is doing fantastic! Despite one of the Bengal cats almost screaming at him on a regular basis, he is taking everything in his stride and is the perfect house guest. Nicky seems to even think he is clever enough to recognise certain areas as his first home is not far from where he is now living. I am really pleased things are working out for this fella.

Good luck Jack xxxx hope this is forever xxxx

Lovely to see the 'rehomed' sign, we are very happy for you and your new family. xxx

Enjoy your new life gentleman Jack, you are a treasure. xx

Jack is going to a fabulous home and he is going to be one pampered pooch.His mum tells me his food has arrived this week by courier! Jack you are a lucky boy be sure to ignore those bengal cats and hope to see you in the park x

How is Jack getting on?

Jacks new family are amazing he has a young boy to play with and a lovely new mama!

Great news, well done Jack.

Good luck boy xxxx

Had the pleasure of jacks company today. Deb brought him training!! However the highlight of the day was when he went to meet the bengal cats. He was such a good lad. Passed with distinction. I suspect that the little female feline, Jess will be the boss, as at one point jack turned the other way to avoid her eye contact and needed a little lean of re-assurance!! ;) bless.
He was also more than pleased to be cuddled and stroked by nicolas son who is a very sensible young man who has done his homework and knows that Greys need to be left whilst sleeping, and a BARF diet will be good for him.
So, all in all a good day for Jack. Nice new forever family for the special laid back shiney handsome hound. xx

Yay jack is reserved!

Jack has had a very busy day, he has been to dog training to catch up with his old friends he has had a walk in Kings Heath and has met the bengal cats! .He is truely amazing he looked at the cats didn't pull or lunge and did look a little bit scared of the boy cat. The cats(which are really beautiful) also responded well to Jack.The meeting with the rest of the family went really well so it looks like Jack has now found his for ever home. YIPEE!

Fab news Jack got EVERTHING crossed (bit tricky I have to admit) it works out for you this time Jack, hugs n kisses to you and your new family xxx

Lovely news for you Jack. Be good.
Love The New Icemaid Clan XX

I was really sad for Jack and his new owner, that it wasnt to be. Now its really fantastic that hes almost been snapped up again so quickly.
Im really confident that the meeting with the cats will be good. He was absolutely fine when he came to our house to visit little Milly. He was muzzled for all of 10 mins for the sniffing when he first met the cat, but showed no desire to chase or anything else. He used to get a bit surprised when the cat rubbed passed his legs as if to say 'thats tickling me, what do you want me to do???' He saw the cat as part of the house/family.
He is such a lovely hound. He has a very calm gentle energy about him.

Youre going to be great on sunday, arnt you Jack?
Massive cuddle, and whippety kisses, clare & little milly

Aw:( Why has Jack been returned xx

Got everything crossed for you Jack, leave those puddy cats alone!!! Big hugs xxx

Jack was fine with our cat when he met her, so I am really hopeful it will all go well for him on Sunday!

I hope he gets on with the cats he is such a lovely big boy .I am very fond of this boy and I really feel for him and his last owner.

Jack desperately needs his 'forever home' as soon as possible. I felt so sad leaving him at the kennels tonight but I gave him the big kennel with the kitchen run and he was sleeping soundly as I locked up. He is going to meet some Bengal cats on Sunday and fingers crossed - if all goes well, he will have a lovely home with Nicola and her son as I have just picked up a message that Nicola is very interested in adopting him after meeting him today :-)

This is such a shame for both Jack and his owner. A cuddle for you lovely boy. xx

Aw Jack, I was so surprised to see your name back up here for rehoming. =( I am really sorry for your owner as well, I am sure it was not an easy choice to give you up.

Ruth, if you would like us to look after Jack again, so he isn't staying in kennels, then just let me know. =)

poor lad :( xxxx

Jack has just arrived back at Daybreaks. His owner needs an operation and is therefore unable to keep him.

Oh no, what happened Jack?

Oh dear what has happened is Jack back in kennels

So happy Jack has found a lovely new mummy, hope you will be happy Jack, you really are a gorgeous boy, big loves handsome xxxxxx

Be happy big boy you look like you have found yourself a lovely new mummy so very pleased for you both.

Very happy for you Jack xxxx

I took Jack to the park again today as the weather was perfect for getting action shots. He had a fabulous time zooming around and his recall is good when he isn't in selective hearing mode. Here are some photos I took of him when he was running about:

http://i1045.photobucket.com/albums/b460/Remint/Foster%20Greyhounds/003.jpg

http://i1045.photobucket.com/albums/b460/Remint/Foster%20Greyhounds/004.jpg

http://i1045.photobucket.com/albums/b460/Remint/Foster%20Greyhounds/005.jpg

http://i1045.photobucket.com/albums/b460/Remint/Foster%20Greyhounds/006.jpg

http://i1045.photobucket.com/albums/b460/Remint/Foster%20Greyhounds/007.jpg

http://i1045.photobucket.com/albums/b460/Remint/Foster%20Greyhounds/008.jpg

http://i1045.photobucket.com/albums/b460/Remint/Foster%20Greyhounds/009.jpg

Sorry if the images are a bit pixelly, I didn't realise at the time that my camera settings weren't quite correct.

Jack has been such a fantastic foster dog and I am so happy to have met him, he really is such a special guy. I wish him lots of luck in his new home and I hope he has a fantastic life there, he really does deserve it.

WOT DEB SAID!!!!
Blurry screen here. Im so thrilled and happy for you big fella! i know lots of hoomans with lots of Dogs, and they are all 'nice'. But Jack, you are such a lovely, clever, sensitive, intuitive lad, with such a big heart in that big chest, you are a very special houndie!! We wish you and your new family all the very best,
Heaps of soppy grey snogs and whippety (milly) kisses,
Clare, Jess and Ell xxxxx

FANTASTIC!! !

did your home check today Jack and all is well....as soon as your new mum can sort out a day with Ruth you will be able to get onto your forever sofa...you will have the life of Reilly!!! hugs ...Ina xxxx

Jack didn't howl this morning! I was a little confused when I wasn't woken up by it though...

We took him out on a walk to Warwick Racecourse yesterday, he conquered the railway steps no problem so it looks like it is just the steepness of ours that really puts him off going down. When we got onto the racecourse there were far too many rabbits to go and chase / investigate. He kept slowing down and then dashing forward on the lead as if to say, "Ohh, go on, let me off. I want to have a run and see all those yummy rabbits." We didn't dare let him off though, he hadn't been there before so you could pretty much guarantee that everything else would be more interesting than us and we'd have a real job getting him back. So poor old Jack looked a little miserable that he wasn't allowed to go off like our two.

When we let Freya off (she runs around very fast) he went nuts and was spinning, pulling and hopping because he wanted to join in with all the fun and run round / play with her. After she'd run back and forth a few times he calmed down though and went back to walking ever so well on the lead. He really is model dog when we take all of them out for a walk together.

I just went to remove a tick (our Retrievers appear to have picked a fair few up) from the hallway and had shut all the dogs in the lounge so they didn't tread on it. After getting rid of the thing I go back into the lounge only to see Jack relaxing in my spot on the sofa! I call our dogs out and put them in the kitchen (to restrict any falling ticks to one area) and Jack goes with them, bless him. Then, after we both get back to the lounge, he has the cheek to try and get my sofa spot again! He appears to have mastered a very forlorn look, which he pulled expertly when I told him he was not getting the sofa seat back. He really is such a character.

We were suspecting that may be the reason Deb, so we're just being very patient with him and taking him out on his morning walk a little while after he's gone out into the back garden and had his breakfast. Not quite at 7 in the morning, but close enough for my liking!

I took him to the park again this evening when there was nobody there, but my mum came with me this time so we could call him between us. It went loads better and he had a great time sprinting about like a loony. He did overshoot a little when we called him back, but that was only because he couldn't slow down in time. As long as the ground stays good I think I'll keep taking him back to practice the recall - but he has improved so much since yesterday, he really is a very clever dog and cottons on fast.

We got some more duvets today from my Grandma's which I'll be donating to the kennels when I bring Jack up to go to his new owner. We'd dumped them at the bottom of the stairs to be moved later, only when we came back Jack had made himself at home on them! He looked a little silly due to the way the duvets were positioned somewhat like a mountain, but he looked comfy nonetheless.

Thank you very much for the info Deb, I'll see if I have access to the car on Friday (I have a horrible feeling my mum is using it for work) and contact Julie if it is free and I am able to get down there. =)

If the weather remains sunny and I can make my camera work correctly I'll try and get some running shots when we are in the park. Possibly some standing ones as well if he remains still for long enough, only everytime I knelt down to get one of him standing he walked over and licked my face along with giving my jumper a good sniffing (it is where I stash all those yummy treats!)

What adventure he is having and he seems to be having lots of fun in his foster home. Lots of new experience to befuddle his greyhound brain.
I think he could be making a noise early in the mornings because this was the time he got up with his previous owner for his early morning walk!
I think Jack was one of those greys that was mostly on a lead and didn't do much off lead other than in enclosed spaces for safety reasons which could be why he sprinted past you!!
You could always bring him to the stables on Friday for a good run you can contact Julie (Saturday training) for details.

Now that Jack has been with us a few days his personality is really starting to shine through. He is quite cheeky and a real opportunist. If a plate with some leftover food is sitting on the table then he'll slowly stretch his face out to it, even if we are saying "No Jack", just to test how far he can get before we actually get up to move the food. Then when we do get up he darts off back to his bed with a look of, "Me? No, I wouldn't dream of taking that off the table." He is such a liar, albeit a very sweet one!

Yesterday Jack decided to come up the stairs again but this time he would not walk down them at all. After about 15 minutes of trying to persuade him otherwise I just picked him up and carried him down. He did squirm a little but otherwise he was very well behaved - he hasn't attempted the stairs again since.

He has also started to howl at around 6:40 or 7:40 in the morning, no matter how late we let him out he still does it. I'd much rather him howl than bark as it doesn't carry as much, but I don't want to encourage it by going down and letting him out as soon as he starts. So I have taken to just lying in bed and waiting for him to stop, then getting up and letting them all out in the garden.

I took him to the park the other day for a bit of a sprint round and to test his recall in an unfamiliar environment, as he is generally pretty good in our garden. Turns out it has all kind of slipped his mind a little. He clearly knows his name but everything else in the park was far more interesting than me and cheese cubes. When he did come running back towards me, "excellent" I thought, he's finally getting it, only he went whizzing past and stopped about 10 meters away from where I was standing, looking rather pleased with himself. When the ground dries out a bit and the park is empty I'll take him back there again to just keep working on it as it is probably the best and safest place to practice near here.

Jack also managed to give himself a little scratch just below his eye this morning, the way it was bleeding you'd think it was something far more serious. I don't know how he managed to do it as I checked all the surfaces (table / desk corners) that he could've possibly hurt himself with and none have blood or fur on them. Either way, it looks like he has just scraped the fur off and it isn't bothering him at all, which is good. He also weed up the corner of the door this morning, only a tiny little one a it must have been an excitement / anticipation thing as our dogs was going loopy at the prospect of my mum coming downstairs.

He is a very jolly boy and does love his fuss. He also really likes having company, but this may just because he is still in an unfamiliar environment. He starts to whine when either of our dogs aren't about, or one of us isn't, but I'm sure that will get better as he settles in more and becomes more relaxed.

Good news that he has a home to go to xxxx

I too used to enjoy reading Darryl's comments about Gentleman Jack and I am so sorry they couldn't stay together. I hope knowing Jack has a lovely new home to go to will help Darryl. xxx

This is wonderful. Jack heading off in afew weeks to his new home.
Remit has clearly provided the perfect foster home, for lovely snuggly Jack, Id just like to say well done and thankyou. Having fostered myself its so rewarding watching them go off, but also bitter sweet, because we are only human, love dogs and want to keep them!!
Also to daybreaks kennels for finding foster homes for the dogs in need of a 'non kennel' environment.
Clare x

Yes, Jack's new owner seemed lovely when I met her today at kennels. He really does seem like the ideal dog for her in every way and I hope the home check goes well.

Jack will be staying with us until Daybreaks reopens, then he'll be heading off! I will be really sad to see him go, but I am so happy that he has found a permanent home quickly. =)

Lucky boy and lucky new owner.Well done to everyone at daybreaks for finding this gorgeous boy a new home and to "Remint" for fostering him until he can go to his new home.I am sure you will be sad to see him go but what a wonderful thing you have done by fostering him.

Oh my goodness the reserved sign for the lovely Jack. what can one say we hope all goes well.
Love The New Icemaid Clan. X

Jack is settling more as the days go by. He loves his walks and loves his food - especially the chews and treats!

This morning we had a bit of a stairs adventure though. Our two had dashed upstairs to the top floor to see my mum and I followed to go talk to her as well. Jack decided that he wanted to be a part of things as well and climbed the stairs onto the landing. He didn't brave the ones up to my mum's room though. I heard him whining and came down to see him on the landing, which did surprise me as I thought he was still in the hallway. He was standing in my bedroom doorway and when I went to go give him a stroke, he turned around, hopped onto my bed and flopped onto my pillows. Clearly he thinks my bed is now the place to be. (Needless to say he had just been in the garden, so now I have muddy paw prints all over my sheets!)

If my let next year allowed pets I would be seriously considering adopting Jack, he is just perfect in every way. (I have actually messaged the letting company about it, but I am not expecting them to say yes - still hoping though.)

He sounds amazing I'm sure he won't b here long.i had a dream last night that I was getting a new grey due to loosing my collie,luckily it was just a dream and both my dogs r fit and well but I think if it had been reality then this beautiful black boy would have come home with me

Brilliant :) Thanks so much for the updates on this absolutely wonderful, beautiful (inside and out) shiney black lad!
He looks to be settling well (love the new pic) and as a complete 'heat seeker' has worked out the fireplace- bless. Its lovely to hear he has 2 new playmates, and that his fabulous personality is coming out. It was a privilege providing some daycare for Jack, i cannot express just how relieved and pleased I am he has a foster home.
Clare, family and Little milly xxxx

Sounds like he is having a lovely holiday I hope he is worming his way into your mums affections and who knows maybe he will find his permanent home!
Hopefully we will see him again at training classes when he has his new home.Until then big hugs to Jack.

Jack was an absolute star overnight. Even when one of ours started barking in a rather excited fashion he remained quiet. After greeting us with many wags of his tail he made a beeline for the back door. He had to wait for our two to finish outside first (didn't want them all leaping round the garden together in case something bad came out of it) and was ever so well behaved. He spent about 10 minutes exploring the garden and made it very clear when he wanted to go back inside as he stood by the back door again.

I also discovered that the cat was in the utility - what better time to cat test! I took him in (with my hand full of little cheese cubes) and after some initial whining he soon decided that the cheese was far more interesting than the cat. So it is all looking good there and hopefully I'll be able to build upon that when the cat next ventures into the house.

After reading all about his sofa lower down, I realised I had forgot to mention Jack's attempt at getting onto ours. Yesterday Jack decided that the cushions piled up on our sofa were put there just for him - so up he hops and settles down, looking rather pleased with himself. Only problem is, we have a leather sofa. Luckily Jack landed on all the cushions, but I only managed to get him off it by heading into the kitchen with the bowl that I used for lunch.

Thank you so much for giving him such a wonderful home for the past 9 months Darryl, it is very clear to see how loved and cared for he was. His coat is in a fantastic condition and he is so well adjusted, he just takes everything in his stride.

Where do I start, what can I say, how do I begin??

Jack, for the past 9 months, you lit up my life. You made me smile, laugh and occasionally curse! You taught me humility, kindness, humour, unconditional love, understanding, patience and devotion.

Today was without question, one of the saddest, most upsetting/distressing and heart wrenching experiences I've ever encountered - the tears are rolling down my cheeks as I write this and they haven't stopped all day.

You gave me some purpose and for that, and for choosing to be my housemate, I'll always be grateful and will never forget you. I can't tell you how sorry I am that I didnt feel able to continue to give you a wonderful home to chill out in but I do know that the sense of loss is overwhelming and unbearable.

You are one in a million Jack and please forgive me that you're not sleeping on your sofa at home tonight. You sound like you've had an exciting day exploring new places and I hope you have many more to come.

I love you Jack and I'll never EVER forget you.

Goodbye my boy xx

jack i hope that things work out for you, i loved reading your antics on the website from your previous owner, good luck with the future , sounds as though you have truly found a great home although only a foster home. xx

Sounds like you've had a VERY exciting day Jack, hope you sleep well n another fab day tomorrow, please keep us updated xxxx

Jack it sounds like you have well and truly fallen on your paws with your foster home. Sounds like you are going to have a great time. Lots of interesting places to go and people to see. Enjoy! xxx

Jack is absolutely fantastic. Considering what a strange day this lad has had he is so chilled out and just taking everything in his stride.

When we got him back home there was a great deal of exploring to be done! He was a little stressed and anxious initially but soon calmed down after examining all of the downstairs several times over. He also seemed very keen to go out so we put him and our two Retrievers into the back of our car and drove over to my Grandma's house from which we'd head over to to Hatton Locks Cafe. He was perfect in the car, not a complaint at all, even though it was a bit of a squish. At my Grandma's house he met another three Retrievers, a Collie and a Labradoodle and he was absolutely fine with all of them.

After this mass greeting me, my mum and my Grandma headed down the road to Hatton Country World (you can walk across fields round the back to get to the canal) with our two girls and Miley (the Labradoodle). Jack was absolutely convinced that these massive fields were perfect for having a good sprint round and did pull rather enthusiastically, but not strongly. After waling through many tempting open spaces we eventually got to the stairs that lead over the railway. After a bit of encouragement we managed to get up all the stairs, but going down was a different matter! When we got to the 'down' bit he wasn't very sure of himself and tried to go back the way we had come, not sure he realised he'd face the same dilemma. After some persuading though, and seeing everyone else at the bottom, we managed to conquer going down the stairs. He may just not have been feeling confident because the stairs themselves were rather high up and kinda echoed / clanged when you walked on them, which may well have put him off a bit.

After going across some more fields we reach the canal and chill out at the cafe for a bit. Jack did have a little shout at Miley, but Miley was being rather in his face and pushy, so I can't blame him really. After that though we kept them apart and Jack was convinced that my brownie was for sharing! I left earlier than my mum and Grandma and headed back home down the canal . We power-walked most of the way back and Jack started to slow down by the end of it, but he coped excellently and had a nice big drink when we got home. Overall I think that walk was around 4 miles, maybe 3 and a half, so he did very well indeed!

He is now relaxing in the lounge and managed to get his toy duck out of the bag and took it to his blanket on the rug. (Currently, the duck has the blanket and Jack has the massive duvet that Ruth lent us.) Jack also seems to love his food and leaps up whenever he thinks something interesting may be happening in the kitchen.

I've taken a photo of him relaxing on the rug after his walk today which I'll email to Ruth and I'll take more as long as he remains with us. He is an absolutely stunning dog and has a personality to match.

Pleased to see he has a foster home xxxx

Hopefully he will get on with our two Golden's tomorrow so we can offer him a foster home for the duration of the kennels being closed. =) (Maybe longer if I can swindle my mum into it!)

Jack regularly attends training on a Saturday morning and his dad must be devastated at returning him.
This boy is just truely gorgeous and would fit any household.
He is sensitive,laid back and chilled.
He can be left and is fully house trained. He gets on with other dogs but does prefer the ladies!
He is good with other dogs, gets on with children of all ages and tolerates his neighbours big black cat.
He responds to commands and is one of those rare greyhounds that can sit on command.
He just loves fuss and attention and is lovely big black cuddly boy.
He will make a great addition to someones home whether you are first time grey owner or have a house full of them.His neighbour little Millies(in the picture) mum describes him as bomb proof and he is going to make a perfect addition to a very lucky family.
If only I could persuade my husband to have another dog he would be curled up right now on my sofa!

Such sad news :-( sorry but with 4 hounds, 4 cats and 3 kids we are full to brimming xxxx wish we could help xxxx Hope someone has room for you lad xxxx

Jack is being returned tomorrow due to a change in circumstances for his owner. As he is used to home life, we are anxious to find him a foster home as soon as possible, especially with the kennels closing for 10 days due to maintenance from this Friday (8th). If you think you can help, or offer Jack a home, please give me a call! Ruth 0121 782 7702.

Yep! Captain Jack Sparrow suits him down to the ground! the day he spread the contents of the bin all over his bed and floor- he was sssooo chuffed with his work! I swear he was laughing - MASSIVE grin! He recruited his little Milly to the ship (not that she needed much education on being a rogue)and pulled all the rubbish out of the bag I was trying to tidy into- faster than I could get it back in - cheered on by his now 'second mate'!!! He is also an expert on taking hostages. occasionally blocking my exit (front door) and not budging so I cant get out, or getting between milly and the door so even if i can exit the vessel comfortably, his friend cant!!
Jack missed his dad loads, but kept himself 'busy' to take his mind off!! Daryl however ( grapevine says) missed Jack even more - and talked to anyone who was at the conference bout how ace his dog was, and Daybreaks RGT, and greys in particular - and how much he missed his handsome lad!! :)

jack your are soo funny with your naughty antics, keep us laughing darryl, great reading. ann and ellie may.x

Can't wait to read Chapter 8! He gets my cuddle today. xxx

Chapter 7 - The Adventures of Captain Jack Sparrow

Why the name? - because this dog of mine has turned into a thieving pirate! Despite having a chewy treat in the morning, during the day and in the evening as a dinner dessert, Jack has now figured out how to get his snout under the lid of the kitchen bin. I actually think this was a problem until Clare and my son both informed me that he secretly got hold of a couple of carrier bags and ripped them open and empted the contents all over his lounge! I must admit to laughing my head off when I found out. I'm not sure whether it's inquisitive playfulness, greed or hunger. I've also noticed out on walks lately that he's constantly trying to sniff out something interesting to get his teeth into. I don't think it's hunger - Jack is now around 30kg's but looking very svelte and handsome with it. Owing to his plundering ways, I've decided it's only proper to deck Jack out with a skull & crossbones collar to befit his new status as a master thief!

Jack has also attended training on 4 seperate occasions now and whilst he tries to maintain interest, he mostly sleeps through the whole process. He does love to attend though and he loves meeting the other greys. He never becomes aggressive, he just nonchalantly acknowledges them and goes back to sleep. He did get the hump with me recently when I gave my 2-piece suite to my daughter - Jack was aghast that he had go back to the duvet on the floor. In the end, I had to buy him his own sofa just to stop him giving me dirty looks.

I'm continuing to let him off his lead in the disused tennis courts in Kings Heath park and he absolutely adores this. I think he thinks he's back on the track because he now runs in circles - once he's done a couple of circuits, he's knackered!

Jack continues to develop his character and his bladder control is almost bordering on superhuman. I had to stay away on business for one night recently and I think I suffered greater seperation anxiety than Jack did. He continues to make me smile and laugh in equal measure and he's living out his retirement that way he wants to - by sleeping, being a mischeivous git and being being loved by all that meet him and look after him.

'Doggy Daycare' continues. Last week when jack was at our house his and Little Millys nick names were 'George and Mildred' cos she didnt stop bothering him and 'nagging' to play! However this week, when Milly is at his house, they play a bit then sit on the sofa together, being comical, reminding me of 'The two Ronnies'!! Unsure who they will impersonate next - hope its not the Kray Twins!

Have you thought of recording Jack when you go out? If he is restricted to a certain room when you go out, perhaps this would be possible as separation anxiety is always worse when you first go out. We used an mp3 player(or perhaps your phone would do it) when we went out to record our current dogs as we'd had problems with a previous greyhound with separation anxiety;fortunately our current two don't suffer.Then you can look forward to listening to an hour or so of hopefully silence when you return! (It goes get a bit boring, but you can play it back when you're doing something else at the same time to take your mind off it!) This helped us as we knew how bad the problem was & as we monitored the situation weekly over several months, we knew when the problem was getting better. Obviously leave any phone etc. out of reach so it can't be chewed like the kong! We tried ticking clocks, leaving clothes about (again out of reach), leaving a radio on & DAPs. The DAPs tho' expensive were the best for us; we could even tell by the recordings when the DAP needed replacing. Best of luck, he'll imrpove with time. See you at training sometime soon, Val,Mark,Rosie &Jet

Aha! We shall have to take Joey for a walk there. We tend to walk to the Dingles and along the river by Sarehole Mill as this is our closest walk but have not met any greys along there yet!! We must walk at totally different times to everyone else. Shall try Kings Heath Park and bring Joey along sometime at the weekend :)

Hi Ann

I know what you mean about the speed they come back to you at. At one point, I though Jack was going to go through the fence like a spud through a potato chipper! It's hard to describe how good it feels when you see them at full speed - all legs and head bouncing up and down but it's scary when you think they're not going to pull up in time. Jack was brilliant this morning and started to judge his braking distances perfectly - he should put in for a driving test! Darryl

Hi Rosie. That sounds like a good idea.

I let Jack off his lead again this morning and it was a lovely sight to see. He was so well behaved - stayed in the corner of the enclosure when I told him too and waited there unitl I'd reached the opposite corner and then when I called him, he ran hell for leather across to me. This time though, there was no 'over-run' - he ran straight to me. He didn't even venture anywhere near the open gate.

It's a fantastic space for Jack to stretch his legs and do what he loves best (apart from sleeping and farting) and he really loves the exercise. The only problem is now is that just because he thinks he's impressed me for the day, he wants his Kong served on a tray with cutlery and a napkin!

Jack is a real sweetie and quite a flirt with the ladies.
Joey gray faces mum : depending when you go to Kings heath park there are a few greyhounds that get walked there regularly and everyone stops and talks not least because the greys get really excited when they see each other.

Hello! I am Grey Face Joeys mum and have just noticed you mentioned walking Jack in Kings Heath park! We live on the border of Hall Green and Moseley and am wondering if Jack and Joey might like some play time? Be great to chat greyhound as well! Rosie, Josh and Joey

hi jack's dad i remember the first time i let ellie off the lead and i felt exaclly the same, seeing these beautiful dogs running is just amazing, when they run back towards you you think that they are going to knock you flying , but they some how whizz out of the way at the last secound, i sometimes wonder where there brakes are lol. ann and ellie-may.

My handsome boy put the biggest smile on my face today. I took him for a walk in Kings Heath park - all seemed quiet so I took him into the old grass tennis court enclosure. I made sure the exits were covered and let him off his lead for the first time. All I can say is WOW!

Watching Jack run at full speed brought a huge lump to my throat and seeing him go like the clappers gave me the happiest feeling and put the biggest smile on my face since this wonderful dog came to live with me. It was quite intimidating when he came running back towards me at full speed, so much so that he ran straight past me and out into the open park. I simply called his name and he stopped dead in his tracks and allowed me to walk over and put his lead back on - what a superstar!

He's going to need this new exercise regime now - I've been leaving Kongs for him during the week and he loves what I put in them so much, he's started eating the Kong as well! I think he's now developed a peanut butter addiction!

I took him to training today too so he could have a catch up with some of his friends and was very well behaved. I'm so proud of my Jack and he's adored by all who meet him - even those odd 'non-dog' types. Millie thinks he's boring, Jack thinks she's a headcase but they play so well together and they really look forward to their daily meet.

I can't wait to let him loose again tonight or tomorrow.

thanks julie, i think it kind of wore him out! He has been round many times before but only in the safe custody of Daryl!! Otherwise Little M visits his home and they play in the garden. It was lovely sitting in the lounge, pottering in the kitchen and simply observing him, I learned a lot about both Jack and Little Milly (and my fat-cat Miles who is completely dog-friendly!) i also learned its possibly not the right time to volunteer to foster until Little Milly has grown up and learned life doesn't need to be lived in the fast lane!!
Jack is her 'mentor' in how to relax and enjoy everything. I hope his warm, calm, obedient, friendly, clever, trustworthy,sensible, yet hilariously funny personality rubs off!! if we Ignore his terrible flatulence, this hound is PERFECT! Daryl can take all the credit for providing a very loving caring home. see you sat, Clarex

What a lucky boy you are Jack a lovely dad ,some doggy day care with Clare and Milly aka as the wildchild for a friend.You will be the envy of your kennel
mates!
Ps My Milly wants to know what you like listening to on the radio she is rather partial to The Archers and watching football on the TV!

LOL Great plan Clare :) :) :) I bet Jack loved his day out :) J xx

Aw, sweet Jack. He is so loved and cared about. Im still popping in x3 daily for his 'wee-breaks'. after texting/speaking with Daryl this morning,(and Jack-0f course!) Jack came round to our house for a little change of scenery, this afternoon. After tail wagging, rear sniffing, sniff/reading the lounge, hall, and Kitchen he settled on one of little Little Millys beds. Watched her tear around tossing her toys about. She got bored and jumped on sofa. Then he changed his mind and got on the sofa, stretched out with little Milly up close and watched Nat-Geo programme about dogs being saved from a pound! Both had ears up and watched the TV dogs with interest, milly practised her puppy growling at them, Jack just turned his head quizzically at the TV. milly then went out for walk (son home from school) and Jack ignored the cat and slept. after return from her walk little Milly played again and Jack chased her Kong! then he went home, seemed happy and pleased for just the radio noises ( rather than 3 loud humans chattering, bashing about in the kitchen, a pup tearing at 110 miles per hour, TV on in lounge, and other comings and goings!) he stretched on his own sofa, and appeared v happy. I listened outside the front door, he whined for 2 mins max, and then all quiet. ( Maybe Little Milly gave him a headache!)
jack is the loveliest, calm, sweet natured big lad. Im more than happy for him to come visit as and when he wants to, and Daryl thinks he needs to. The more I get to know him, the more Im feeling he'd make an excellent PAT dog in the future.
Im not sure he whines as much as the neighbours think, but Ill listen outside a bit longer! ( Non 'dog-people' tend to find a normal 5 min whine very distressing. -They leave their fish, but we cant hear them have a little grumble, even if they are!!)

The Kong is a good idea pack it really tight with goodies so it takes Jack a long time to get the contents and only give it to him when you are going out so he associates the treat with you going.
We left the radio on for our lurcher when we got her and this seemed to help.
Looking sad and woeful is a special skill these dogs have and it took us a while to grasp this thinking our little one was in the depths of depression.A treat walk or play soon changed her expression!
He is a lovely dog who is still new out of kennels and adapting to life on the "outside" so he will take a little time to settle into a home.jack is not alone not liking fireworks as they do seem to upset a lot of greys.
Good luck.

Leave him with a well stuffed Kong or even two as he's on his own (full of things he will have to work at to get out like mashed potato with bits of liver, cheese, sausage etc etc as most separation anxiety happens in the first 20 mins of being left. Also leave a worn jumper or tee shirt in his bed so it smells of you and that should help comfort him, you can also get a small tee shirt, sleep on it and put it on him when it starts to get dark and the damn fireworks come out .. if its small it should be close fitting and he'll feel hugged plus draw all curtains, have the telly on and make sure he's been out to toilet before the fireworks start (difficult I know). Look at the Tellington TTouch that I teach .. we did some short Workshops last year to help people teach their dogs not to be afraid of fireworks and we had great results ... we're planning another one at the end of Nov or early Dec and I'll let you know. Appropriate exercise to make him tired can also help - a good hour in the afternoon preferebaly somewhere where there are lots of interesting smells to wear him out and a 45 min walk in the morning should also help plus a late wee walk tho my girl is worried by fireworks so her last walk is aout 11pm and only in the garden wearing her TTouch wrap. Coming to one of the training classes we offer too - the dogs enjoy it and you can practise which can also help distract him when fireworks go off. Julie

It's been nearly 2 months with Jack now and no real problems. I am a little worried though that Jack looks very sad for a lot of the time. More worryingly, I had a quick chat with my next door neighbour last night who informed me that Jack cries, whines and howls a lot (and loudly) during the day. Millie's owner usually pops in a couple of times a day but it appears that when no one is in the house with Jack, he's sounding really distressed. I bought a DAP diffuser last week because of the fireworks (Jack hates them) and have left that plugged in constantly but it doesn't appear to be having much of a calming effect.

Although he's not having any accidents in the house, it's just really upsetting to think he's at home and crying/howling while I'm out.

Any advice as always would be appreciated.

Got me chuckling again. Must say though, there was a dog in Ring 4 Best Trick who was doing something similar and won-keep practising and you'll have a winner on your hands next year! Mand x

Of course he enjoyed his bath! I am a super shampooer! Xxxx!

Chapter 6 - The further Adventures of Jumping JACK Flash!

So then, a visit to the annual dog show today and I've learned that Jack can leap like a an Olypmic High Jump champion - it's as if he's got a pogo stick strapped to each leg! I'm sure he was just showing off for the rest of the greys that were surrounding him - or challenging them to jump higher. This could be a useful trait to have in a dog, if he goes any higher, I'll stick a cloth in his mouth and he can clean the outside upstairs windows while he's at it.

He went to the kennels yesterday for his first bath and despite warnings from Fiona that he'd 'hate it', he just stood there and was utterly and totally chilled - as if he were attending a doggy spa day. He didn't think much of the hair dryer though - probably because when it was switched on, the blast was so powerful, it nearly knocked him over.

He's taken a very keen interest in squirrels. When I let him into the garden, he just stands to attention with his ears pricked - watching and waiting. Depsite my best efforts to tell him that they don't just show up on demand, he'll continue to stare at the fence 'thinking' one will show up for his convenience.

Recent new likes:
Ruth's liver cake (loves this)
His new (ever so slightly) blingy I.d. tag
The new sofa AND both armchairs (loves those)
Laughing Cow cheese triangles (it's Jack who laughs when he's eating them - not the cow)
Corned beef
Having his teeth brushed (at last)
Being brushed
Being kissed, cuddled and hugged until he's gasping for breath
SQUIRRELS
A rediscovered love for his Kong (with the previously mentioned Laughing Cow and bits of ham stuffed into it)
Watching 'Have I got News For You (this is a cultured dog)

Recent dislikes:
Joggers
ITV (he's a BBC man)
Squirrels (the same reasons mentioned above - they wind him up)
Being removed from aforementioned sofa so I can sit down
Wearing his Blizzard (he thinks it's a little too camp)
Paperback books (he doesn't like the taste but they give his jaw bones a good workout)

I love Jack to pieces and I haven't met anyone yet who doesn't. The feeling you get when you get home from work and he jumps up and puts his front legs on your shoulders can't be put into words. He's my pal, my housemate and my own personal comedian . . . . . . . . . . . and he still sleeps more than I ever thought possible!

Jack has just got back from the Annual Dog show and he loved every minute and was so well behaved. He saw a load of his kennel pals and was on his best behaviour (obviously trying to impress the 'Best Black Dog' judge, but failed miserably)!

When he was in ring 4 though, the judge kept squeaking a toy and Jack jumped up - all 4 legs off the ground to a height of about 4-5ft - as if he was on a trampoline. I though for a moment that I had a Gazelle in disguise on my hands. To console him in his disappointment for not coming home sprorting a rosette, he's now sporting a sparkly new diamond i.d. tag instead. He thinks this looks a lot cooler than a rosette but now he has a little bling, he's acting like he belongs to Jay-Z or someone like that - he'll be wanting dental implants next!

He also met his old trainer Tracey and recognised her straight away which was really lovely to see.

I now have a problem . . . . . . Jack tasted some of Ruth's liver cake and he nearly took my arm off when he'd got a nostril full of the treat. Of course, that meant I had to come home with 3 bags! Can you please let me have the recipe?

A great day out Ruth and well done to all involved and I hope you raise oodles of cash to provide these beautiful animals with the lifestyle they so richly deserve.

Aww I love jack! He's so cute! I told u his personality would shine thru given time. What a star xxxxx

I love them too, they make me laugh out loud. You should write a book - perhaps ''The Memoirs of a Retired Greyhound in Training -Year 1'. I'd buy it! Mand x

Love reading these comments about Jacks antics,keep them coming!!:)

Jack the Lad - Chapter 5.

Jack is now known as 'A Git' . . . (A)lways (G)etting (I)nto (T)rouble.

He's turned into a master burgler, somehow managing to open the living room door (and shutting it behind him). He's broken ornamants that were on the window sill as a result of being a nosey so and so and knocking them off when getting his head behind the blinds (not too worried - they were naff anyway), chewed up a book up or two and has left dental imprints in the tv remote.

He's now commanded sole slobbing out rights to every piece of furniture in the house that was designed to accommodate a human bottom and when you try to pick a spot to sit down, it turns into a game of musical chairs! He still takes far too much interest in my dinner immediately after he's eaten his own and is a cheeky little rascal, but I love him.

Taking all of this into account, he's turned into the most loving, funny and clever addition to the household (and that includes me and my son). When out walking and strutting around the house, his tail is no longer buried between his hind quarters and day by day, it's sticking out that little bit further. He loves Millie and loves the neighbours popping in to say hi every day and is adored by all who meet him.

What a superstar!

Letting Jack out for wee twice daily, and in return I get loads of cuddles! He is such a clever lad, and really loving his new place. Sleeping on sofa, 'showing' me the fridge, stealing random stuff - a jewellry box strewn all over floor following his breaking into the front room! chewing a paperback up! and playing chase with Milly. The lad is pure comedy, and adored by all.

Jack(anory) - episode 4.

Jack has claimed the house as his own. Not only have I had to relinquish use of the sofa, he's now claimed my favourite armchair as his own. I wouldn't mind, but he can only laze on 1 piece of furniture at a time but when I park my backside on the one he's vacated, he looks at me from across the room with utter contempt!

New likes:
Chicken liver pate (a little too fond)
Bicycles (doesn't really like them but they don't spook him now)
CHEESE
Jack Daniels (only kidding Ruth)!
Luncheon meat
Sardines in tomato sauce or sunflower oil
Even more kisses and cuddles
Top Gear (what a guy)!

Dislikes:
Pyranese Mountain Dogs
Having his teeth brushed
Cheap Sainsburys doggie treats
Eastenders

Foreign objects found in bed:
Hot water bottle (complete with fluffy cover)
Later tax code notice from the Inland Revenue
TV remote - again (how does he do that)
Mains charger for my camera battery!

I've discovered that Jack is very aloof! He only plays when he feels like it, lets you know when HE'S hungry, lets you know when HE wants a pee and inbetween all this, he's still sleeping for England.

Your dad is right to worry about letting you off the lead but in time you might be OK.
Why dont you ask your dad to go into the fenced off tennis court in Kings Heath park and check that there are no holes inthe fence and that the little gate by the basket ball area is locked he could let you off the lead in there and perhaps he could take your goose.Just be careful to get him to stand/block the entrance to the court if the door hasn't been replaced.You might need someone else to go with you.
My mum takes me in there sometimes and no one seems to mind!
PS you can just turn up to training details are in the top corner of the website your dad has vouchers for you and Millie would need to pay £4.He could also take you on one of the greyhound walks if he felt energetic.Hope to see you soon Millie

Hey Millie. I've heard that there was another 'Millie' in the neighbourhood but I only know one (3 doors away). The Millie I know is so cute and very playful. You will usually find me in the park around 6.30 in the morning and 6.30 in the evening (I'm an early riser and I like to be comfortable in bed before 8)!

Me and Millie would love to go to Saturday training because I know my Dad is desperate to let me loose off my lead but is scared I won't go back to him. Maybe we'll see you there soon?

From Jack

Hi Jack....if you aren't very keen on electric wheelchairs you should try and get over to Auntie Julie's Saturday morning training classes at Heighters Heath. My mum uses an electric wheelchair and none of our friends who go seem to have a problem with it and soon get used to us whizzing around, my mum won't mind if you want to give it the once over until you get used to being around one....Boogie and Fletcher x x

Hello Jack my mum has just come back from Sainsburys and it seems we live 5 mins away from each other.She has just seen your friend Millie being walked by her big brother.My mum is a bit freaked out apparently not only do I look like your friend Millie and have the same name we both have identical house collars and ID tags! How spooky is that or perhaps both our mums have impecable taste.
Perhaps we will bump into each other in Kings Heath park or maybe you and Millie would like to come to Saturday training classes which are near the Maypole.
love Millie(the lurcher)

Jack.. A flirt... Never! Dunno what you have been training him!! I think he needs a girlfriend at home to be aloof with! Xxxxx

LOL, welcome to the world of the greyhound owners...they are the most amazing companions and they take over your home your life and most of all your heart, i should know as i have now got three greyhound boys and all of them in less than one year. so happy to see that your beautiful boy is doing so well and that you love him so much...have fun together...love Ina and her boys Rossi Toby and McKenzie xxxx

Well it's been nearly 2 weeks since Jack arrived and he's settled in beautifully. He met his first lady grey out on his walk this morning and he was the most appalling flirt! As soon as she trotted over, he turned his back on her - how rude!

Likes so far:

small cubes of cheese
cooked ham
mint flavoured hide chews
Tetleys tea
the sofa (which he fills by ensuring he's fully stretched out)
the squeaky goose (always)!

Dislikes so far:

bicycles??
motorised wheelchairs
being told off when he tries to stick his nose in my dinner!

This beautiful boy has turned my house into a home. He looks mildly annoyed and irritated when I go to work in the morning, is very excited when I come home in the afternoon and he sleeps . . . . . . . . a lot.

I hope its not leather!? I had a beautiful leather sofa once............ Then I had charlie! Xx

Got home from work today to a clean house - again but what on earth does Jack want with the tv remote and vacuum cleaner brush head in his bed?? He's obviously figured out how to open the living room door - he'd be an expert burglar!! He's really coming out of his shell now and he's an utter joy to have around the place - he's also claimed the sofa as his own!

Love it!!! That's exactly what I thought when I saw this pic deb!! I know a little millie who looks just like jacks new friend xxxxx

Wow Jack's friend Milly is a younger version of my lurcher who is also called Milly,had to look twice when I saw the picture she is my girls doppelganger.They are going to have so much fun together.Daryl and his neighbour had better watch out!

Perhaps you could both come to training

jack is a star! clearly trusting and bonding with Daryl. today played 'chase' with Milly - my lurcher puppy, and was big and fast but also gentle and patient with her jumping and spinning around. He 'smiled' all afternoon. Bless.

Hi Darryl, I hope you and Jack are doing well? Tracey - Jacks trainer for the last 3 years has text me asking how he is getting on, can you send me some photos so i can forward them on to her? she would love to see some photots of him in his new home. fjcooke@hotmail.co.uk. Fi xxx

With a lovely tasty treat in your hand and with Jack facing away from you, call him by his name. As soon as he turns his head to you, or comes to you, praise him loads and give him the treat. Do it a few times a day and within a few days he'll soon be responding to you as soon as you call his name. Mand x

Thanks for that. Other than little accident, I hardly know he's here. He sleeps lots and likes to chill out. He isn't responding to his name and when I try to get him to play, he gets bored very quickly and goes back to his bed! x

Also my boys only had the kitchen when I was out. And it was a long time before they had run of the house.. Whilst you are out its fine to keep him the one room... When he has been with you longer you can give him more space xxxx

Hi, when you catch him in the act give him a firm no and pop him outside, when he goes outside with him and close the door behind you and wait till he toilets... Keep repEating you word, something like wee wee outside, and when he does something make a real fuss saying good boy and lots of fuss. Hell soon get it. It took a while with Fly but he got there! Otherwise being a good little boy? Xxxxx

Advice wanted . . . . Jack had his breakfast this morning - no problems there. I led him out to the garden but he wasn't interested in staying out there for long. Came back in and he wondered into the lounge and pee'd on the carpet instead! He usually sleeps on his duvet at the bottom of the stairs and the two downstairs reception room doors are usually closed during the day. This morning though, I'd left the lounge door open which is where he toileted. A couple of questions if anyone can help. What do I do/say to discourage Jack from peeing indoors and is it right or wrong to have these rooms closed off to him during the day? My guess is that he pee'd there because it's a room he's not overly familiar with? Thanks

Jack Bulletin - Day 3. He's confused by the vaccuum - not scared, but just looked at it funny. What I have noticed and it's something that spooks him quite a lot is that he doesn't like bicycles. We've walked past a couple and had a few ride by and he gets very nervous. I've come home from work to another clean house again - thanks to my neighbour popping in and remarkable bladder control by my handsome man. Go Jack!

Thanks, he is settling in well...we havnt had any accidents either although i have been expecting them. He seemed to settle within an hour or so of getting home...he had sussed kitchen and bed and that is about all he needs! We have three young children and so he is very interested when they eat (he watches them and im sure he is willing them to drop something!) Hope things continue to go so well for you and Jack!! x

These dogs aren't stupid are they?? They'll have you running round in circles if you're not at least as cute as they are. To be fair, I'd rather him trot through the kitchen to the back door even for a false alarm because he's had no accidents since he arrived while I've been at work. How's Blue settling in? I saw him at the kennels a couple of weeks ago and he's a handsome chap.

We've had Gent for 2 years on Thursday and he has never had an accident in the house (even though I thought the potted palm we had in the kitchen might be a prime target!). In contrast, we've had Emily for a year and she did a wee in the hall only a couple of weeks ago! I think she likes to let us know who's boss, the little rascal! Don't think about it too much, he didn't have an accident and that can only be good news. Like Fi says, he'll get into a routine very quickly, as you will too and one day you'll wake up and everything will have just slotted into place. If you get the opportunity to go to one of the training classes, give it a go. One of the volunteers once advised me that even if you don't feel your Grey needs any 'training', the classes are still a great way of developing a special bond between you both. We tried it with Gent and it was great fun, plus you get to meet other Grey owners for a chat. We just need to enrol our 'little rascal' now! Mand x

Darryl the heading out the door and then coming straight back in to bed make me laugh! We picked up Blue on saturday and he has been doing the same thing! I keep worrying he will pee in the house so am really trying to learn his cue's and i think he is having a bit of a laugh at my expense! haha! Glad its going well for you!

They are all bed monsters haha! My charlie had no accidents after day one, you may just be really lucky. He will come out of his shell, its very early days and eveything is so new to him.. Once he knows his routine hell be a happy waggy boy bless him. So happy to hear he is being a good boy. Fly stands by the back door.. Walks out and comes straight back in... I think they just like to see you get up. We ignored fly at the back door once and he cocked his leg up the back door so keep letting him out and he'll get there xxxx

Second night at home for Jack and still no accidents - does that mean he's settled in already or is it just an empty bladder? He does seem a little bit subdued but I guess it's early days in the familiarisation process? He keeps winding me up by going to the back door (me thinking he needs a pee), only to go out to the garden, do an about turn and head straight back to his duvet - he's a bed monster!

Hi Darryl, you sound really in love with Jack, it's lovely, they really are a special breed! My 3 eat grass too, again, no sick, but (and sorry to bring the tone down!) but be aware that if they haven't chewed the grass into small pieces, it may, get, erm..."stuck" coming "out" at the tail end and you may need to grab the grass and help it out, eugh, sorry! I hope you and Jack have many happy years together, he sounds fab! x

Hi Mand. I feel a lot more relaxed about it now. I have a neighbour with a female lurcher puppy and she's kindly popped in a couple of times this morning and Jack has been fab. I think the amount of support from the kennels, owners and neighbours is really lovely and it does make what could otherwise be a very anxious time much easier to live with. Although I was aware of greyhounds tendancy for being 'relaxed', I'm amazed at just how much snoozing these beautiful dogs are capable of. I could learn a thing or two from these guys! x

Hi Darryl. Our two eat grass as well. They are never sick afterwards, but there does seem to be something about that lush green stuff that they enjoy! It can be a little daunting when you first bring them home can't it? I remember when we first brought our boy Gent home. I'd never owned a dog before, so relied heavily on the advice from the kennels. After doing the tour of the garden, big praise when he did a wee outside and introducing him on the rest of the house, I looked at him and thought "what do I do with him now?". In reality, he just wanted to climb on a nice comfy bed and do what Greys do best! You sound like you and Jack are doing just fine, but isn't it great to have the support of other grey owners and everyone at the kennels? I found the monthly walks useful too, it's so reassuring talking to other Grey owners and if there's one thing we all do well, it's talk about our Greys! Enjoy yourself. Mand x

Thanks J, that's reassuring. x

Don't worry both mine are grass eaters... Especially long grass. They aren't sick afterwards either. Glad he had a good firsat night bless him xx

Hi Darryl
Mine have always eaten grass at some point of the year .. sone say its eaten as a cleanser as they're often sick afterwards :( but mine aren't usually sick but do love some certain grasses :) J x

Jack was great all night. No accidents and he didn't move from his duvet all night - I didn't hear a thing until he started with his squeaky goose at 5.30 this morning. Can someone please tell me if it's normal behaviour for greys to chew grass?? I took Jack into the garden this morning and he did his business but then looked like he was eating/chewing a little grass. Any advice??

Hope you both had a good night with no "emergencies"

What kind of emergency are you planning on having haha.. I'm not at the kennels till saturday I'm afraid as much as I'd love to be there full time I have a job in the week.. Somone is at the kennels though between 10 and 4 everyday if you need any advice, or you can post on here. Your home checker will also ring you to see how your getting on so don't worry, I'm sure your doing a fab job jusy relax with him and it will all fall into ace. I was a nervous wreck on my first night but all was well and I haven't looked back since :o) big loves to jack xxxxxxxxx

YeahI I did that straight away so I'm not too worried. He's fast asleep on his duvet now. I've praised him lots in the garden and he's a bit random where he takes a pee but I guess he's just marking out his patch now he's home. Can I get hold of you at the kennels if I need an emergency advice hotline?? Also, can I upload pictures to the site?? xxx

Don't forget to clean the area with some water and spray woth the simple solution.. This will get rid of the smell so he doesn't go in the same place. Big up the praise when he goes outsid... Hell be fine, its still very early and accidents happen... It will not leave a smell if you use the spray. Your very welcome. Give us a call if you have any questions xxx

Well he's been here an hour and he's been very inquisitive. He's been around the garden and the house and had one little accident already up against the living room curtains (any advice gratefully received). All I can hear now is squeaking coming from the hall where his bed is at the moment. Thanks for you help Fi and I'll probably need your guidance and advice for a while yet. xxx

I'm hurt by that comment!! Awwww if you don't fetch him tomorrow ill take him for a nice walk :o) I hope your back is well enough to pick him up tomorrow... He told me this afternoon he was ready for all his special boy treats that you have for him xxxxxx

Female + credit card = trouble!! I was hoping to pick my beautiful boy up today but I've been struggling with a recurring back problem all week. If the back feels up to it, I'll come and get Jack tomorrow but if the back needs further rest, I'll be coming for him next Saturday. xx

Don't worry you can get all of these things at the kennels... Blue and red look fab on the black boys! I've just ordered a blue blizzard for my fly! There are loads of lovely house collars and martingales at the kennels too.. Jack is handsome so he will look fab in anything! You should either fetch him sunday or come back sunday with your credit card ansd I will shop with you ha ha! I love buying for greys... They look fab in everything. As for treats, mine love pigs ears, liver treas, dentastix, basically in moderation. A fat greyhound isn't a good look and it isn't healthy. As long as they don't have chocolate or onion your pretty safe with most treats. I avoid bones cos mine get a funny tummy. If you feed him burns he will be getting everything he needs diet wise and you can add rice, pasta, pilchards, tuna etc. Oily fish is fab for a shiny coat. You'll soon learn what he loikes and doesn't like and everything I've listed above is available from the kennels. Don't worry you'll do great! Xxxxxx

I've only bought some treats and foodie things so far. Handsome boy collars and coats?? I might struggle with that one. I can barely buy things that look good on me, let alone my new companion! What would you class as a handsome boy collar and coat? I'm colourblind too so this could be potentially disastrous! I've heard about the kongs so I'll get one of those and I saw a squeaky toy in the shop today but it was that loud, everyone around me in the shop stopped and looked at me like I had a intestinal problem! Do greyhounds like bonio's and stuff like that? I'll get Dentastix and I've seen some cheesy treats but I don't know what greyhounds are intolerant to. I think your advice will be invaluable because I haven't shopped for toys, collars or coats yet. Thanks a lot Fi, it's appreciated xxx

What is on your list so far?? You need a handsome boy collar, handsome boys coats, one for rain, one for cold in the house and one for wet and cold outside....toys, the squeaky ones mine go mad for! its also worth investing in a kong (you can get these from the kennels)... as they provide lots of fun with a bit of peanut butter smeared on the inside! Also denta sticks, tooth brush, toothpaste etc. Whoever does your homing will show you everything you need. Have a look at my boys as i was boring you about them..the are on here Glynn and floppy on here or on the Perry barr rgt page on FB i put some pics on there the other day! They are all just too handsome! Let me know whats on your list and ill fill in the blanks...although not of the things my boys have are essential, i like to spoil them! xxxx

Hi Fi. I'll definitely be visiting with Jack. I was told that I could get his nails cut at Daybreaks as and when he needs (or until I'm confident enough to do it without)! Although I shall buy a lot of the stuff from the kennel to support the trust, I'm also writing a shopping list and struggling to know what goodies to get for him. Any suggestions?? xxx

And your very welcome, there is a right dog for people its just sometimes people get blinded by the pretty colours, im glad Jack chose you...i told you you'd just know! I knew with my charlie and Fly, and i have seen so many houndies come and go they are all fabulous...but that one that steals your heart and you have to take home..thats the ONE! or two in my case. Jack is a lovely boy, and loves attention dont forget to come see us and we are always here if you need help and support. It was lovely meeting you and i think you will be very happy together xxx

Hi, i think i will be in Sunday this week as i have a rather late night friday! It really is nerve racking, i was a nightmare when i bought Charlie home! he was more chilled than i was!! haha! You dont need to worry there is such a massive network of support available to you, Ruth and kennel peeps,internet, homecheckers, facebook even! You are not alone! you adapot all of us aswell lol! i hope it goes well if i dont make it in on saturday xxxxx

Hi Fiona. I can't wait to pick him - I'm so nervous - I feel like an expectant father!! You were right though, even though Joey was lovely, as soon as Jack came into the yard, it felt like he chose me. Thanks for patience and advice during my first visit and both of us hope to see you again. Darryl xx

Yaaaay for jack! Won't see you go little man so good luck in your forever home.. Please bring him for visits. I remember you liked joey, jack is another cracker. You have chosen so well. Fiona xx

Jack, you can travel light!, as Darryl has organised a lovely home, treats, toys, walks, loads of fuss/cuddles and you will want for nothing! even a female lurcher friend, afew doors down, for walks and company occasionally. So pleased you have a lovely new home.

Really great home check this evening and thanks to Martin and Mary for answering all my questions and making me feel very relaxed about the new arrival. Pack your bags Jack, you're coming home on Saturday.

Well done Jack, you so much remind us of our first grey. He was also a bog black male who we called Jack. We lost Jack back in march 2010 at an age of 13, it was Jack who made us fall in love with greys.
Hope it works out for you x

Well done jack... You are a lovely quiet cut boy! Hope you will be happy in your forever home xxxxx

Well Done Jack!! xxxx

Yeah xxxx reserved xxxxx

Met him on Monday all I can say is CRACKERJACK xx

... You forgot completely gorgeous xxxx

Jack is so sweet and very gentle. He met a tiny Jack Russell today and 2 Whippets who were visiting and he was so good with them. He would be a wonderful addition to a family - and lovely and clean in his kennel too!

i had lots of lovely kisses from Jack today, he did not want to eat his dinner so i spent some time with him and had lots of cuddles and lo and behold he ate the lot for me...so so loving and beautiful...xxxx

Another smiler! These black boys are a little too adorable!

another very handsome black boy xxxx he almost looks regal in his pic xxx good luck in finding your forever home xxxx

and what a lot of races run...handsome boy ...will give you a big cuddle tomorrow when i am at the kennels :-) xxxx