Hi Jane, I have left a message on your phone re: flat availability. Jill xxx

We have just had a cancellation for Bank Holiday week for our two bedroom apartment in the centre of Padstow Cornwall (sleeps 4). It has a car parking space and is dog friendly (there is no outside space but we are a few metres from a dog walking area). We get many repeat bookings from Daybreaks dogs and their families. £600 for the week (20% discount) or would consider a part week booking. Donation will be given to Daybreaks. Phone Jane on 07759494453 for further information

We have added a new event on the events list for August 29th - hope you can all come.

Today we also updated the Events on our Facebook page, please if you have a Facebook profile, subscribe to our page and keep upto date with all the events coming up and please share with all your friends. Thanks
https://www.facebook.com/PerryBarrRGT/timeline

Lovely, thanks Deb and Pam for coming up with the vet's name and I've found his website details. My friend will be very grateful. Mand x

Julie uses Chris Day in Oxfordshire if you google him his details come up

Quick question. Does anyone have any info on a homeopathic vet. I have a friend who's at the end of her tether with an allergy-type reaction in her Westie and would like to some natural advice. I know that Julie Sadler has a homeopathic vet, so if Julie's reading or anyone else has some info, I'd love to be able to give the details to my friend. Thanks. Mand x

Happy 4th anniversary 2day Patch... a beautiful calm grey who never gets anxious and is a pleasure to look after.... we love u so very much...mary/john XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Hi All Patch here on sunday I have been with my parents john/mary for 4 years and I had a wonderful pamper wash at daybreaks today.. thanks mum and dad.... xxx

I am in the process of finishing off the Grapevine.... if you have anything you would like included please email me at ruth.boswell@rgtperrybarr.co.uk
Many thanks x

we popped in the kennels this morning and Ruth was in the kitchen singing along to a song on her mobile..mary asked
"can we have a karaoke night?"... no way she replied... lol xxx

Good to see the new doors on the kennel block.. many thanks to Ade... a welcome for the greys as they can stay warmer til the summer eventually arrives....mary/john xx

Whhhoooooooooooo hooooooo! We have new doors on the kennel blocks! Thanks to Ade (Harvey's owner) who fitted them yesterday - they look fantastic and..... I think I may have persuaded Ade to join us on our sponsored London to Brighton bike ride we are doing on the 19th June to raise money for Daybreaks!

Thank you so much to everyone who has visited the kennels recently and brought in fish and peanut butter for our lovely residents...they really do look forward to their lunchtime treat! Xxx :)

*APPEAL*

The kennel dogs are running low on tinned fish (either tomato sauce or sunflower oil) and peanut butter for their lunch Time sandwiches! If anyone could donate some, the dogs would really appreciate!

Thank you! ????????

Many thanks to everyone who supported our Easter Raffle. We raised £39 and the winners were S Smith and R Rowswell. Massive thanks to Angie for donating the prizes and organising the raffle :-) Happy Easter everyone!

Happy Easter to everyone! xx

Happy Easter to everyone at Perry Barr RGT and Daybreaks Kennels...both hounds and hoomans! Xxx

I am really going to miss not being at the kennels tomorrow...mary .

Let's all hope that this is going to be a great busy weekend for dogs to be homed. These beautiful hounds really deserve this after all of their hard work. Good luck guys and girls. You all really do deserve your own forever home and lovely comfy sofa. Go hounds. Xxxxxx

it has been 12 months since we have been volunteering at daybreaks kennels mainly on sundays and we love it.... great new friends and belief in dogs are definetly mans best friend particularly greys.... we thank all the volunteers for friendship and support special thanks to ruth,lisa,alison and tom.... xxx

We are having the under bed heating finished on Wednesday and after this, we are expecting lots of new arrivals - yay! x

Joe, Coilean and Poppy have all come with me today to an event organised at Bablake School in Coventry. We had a great time and the proceeds from the cake sale they organised is helping towards Poppy's veterinary treatment :-)

Thanks Fairy will probably be next week will contact later this week to arrange.

Hi Caro,

We are in Bromsgrove so not far from Ombersley. Could pick up and take to kennels for you if that helps?

Hi Ruth I have the last lot of duvets being thrown out from our self catering if I can arrange for someone to meet me half way to do a drop, things are a little hectic here with job change and house move you are welcome to them FB or email me. Could meet at Ombersley motorway junction.

We are running short of duvets so if you have any you could donate to the kennels, we would be really grateful. x

What a weekend - full of highs and lows...... the sadness of the news of the loss of Daire and the great news about Eoin and two gorgeous new arrivals.

We had a nightmare, after a problem with the electrics meant we were without power from Saturday afternoon until around 3pm on Sunday. I am so very grateful to the 4 electricians who gave their time between them to help late on Saturday and Sunday but the hero of the day has to be Andy Price, one of our volunteers who managed to sus out the problem and normal service was resumed just in time for feeding!!!! We are sorry for the inconvenience to anyone but the main thing was the dogs were kept warm with gas fires and plenty of cuddles (not just for us to share their body warmth!) Keep smiling eh?

Be so nice to go back to the kennels in the morning to see all the new Greys and the greys still looking for a home.... xxxx

I cant keep up 2day with all the REHOMED and RESERVED Fantastic news so nice to see Luke rehomed....I only wish me and john was at the kennels but john had to work..we will be back very soon miss u all....Xxxx

Happy New Year to everyone! Hope it's a great one for both humans and hounds. xx

Happy New year to all the residents and volunteers at Daybreaks Kennels ! Also many thanks to everyone who has helped us on our Awareness Day Roadshows throughout 2015. Your help is invaluable to us and we really do appreciate your time. Have a GREYT 2016. Steve and Sue xxxx

hello to all our colleagues and friends. it has been a very busy and enjoyable year and we are looking forward to helping out in 2016 and seeing loads more greys adopted and living their forever homes.... very happy new year to everyone!...... back on the road again.. hurrah!.. XXX

Mary /John, we have to go to the kennels tomorrow(Sunday) morning, to collect a hamper that I won at the Christmas Party, so we could collect a bag of food for you. Get Ruth to text or email your address and we will drop it in.
Simon x x

Oooh fabulous day! We saw Roger, Celt and Bailey (Heath) off to their new homes and little Lottie out to foster who was returned yesterday as she was a little stressed so wasn't eating terribly well. Had cuddles with my favourite Billy today - bless him he is beautiful and a monster greeting as always from Belle - she is full of crazy happy life! x

we could not get to the kennels 2day the car died on us so not happy.mary/john xxx

Another alternative route to the kennels is to leave the M42 at Junction 5(Solihull). Join A41 for approx 1 mile then turn right at B4102 (Hampton Lane). Drive through Catherine de Barnes then turn left at island and join B4438 (Catherine de Barnes Lane). This will take you to the A45 and normal entry the kennels. I used this route without any problems yesterday afternoon.

Road works Warning!!
It appears there will be no access to the kennels from the motorway -
http://www.solihull.gov.uk/.../Christmas%20Diversion... -
From Thursday 24 December at 10pm to Sunday 27 December at 5am, the Westbound A45 will be closed.
A diversion route will be in place.
This is to enable the existing bridge over the railway to be demolished.
No access will be allowed to any unauthorised vehicles or pedestrians during this time.
The diversion is up to Stonebridge Island, left up to Melbicks island, left into Bickenhill Parkway and back to the A45 by the Airport.
This will get gridlocked I would think so would be worth considering coming to the kennels through Damson Wood and parking in the lane and walking round.....

We are both looking forward spending xmas day at the kennels helping the greys out and plenty of extra tlc....mary/john xxx

Hope you are ok, what happened?

Oh Ruth, we really hope that you are ok and thankful that Joe is.

Unfortunately we are without our Animal Ambulance as I had an accident on the way to the vets last night. I am just so thankful that Joe who was on board at the time is ok and thanks to Tina who happened to be passing just as the accident happened, he was taken to safety.

Ooh thank you! We did have fun on our travels to yorkieshire! I met some old friends & new ones. Great place to go for a dog friendly day out if u are in the area. Looking forward to my 3rd walk this month on sun in stratford. I do like the stratford walk as I get to visit the pet shops afterwards. Hoping to socialise a bit more now the building works have been completed (yippee!!!). Guess that means I will be back at hound school on weds in the new year. Hope to see some of you on Sunday.

More greyhound blogs to look at from the weekend - Rolo hound has been to a nice get together and shared his adventures. Check out the links - greyhound blogs page for the link to Rolo hounds blog

What a wonderful story! If anyone wants to read it just click on Links at the top of the page, then greyhound blogs. Paddy, hope to see you next Sunday at the Stratford walk. Sie

Simply wonderful!!! Mand x

A Christmas story...with a difference! adventuresofpaddyandele.wordpress.com

As its Black Friday it would be brilliant if our beautiful black hounds could find their forever homes. We have lots of super dogs,Chris,Lenny and Pablo etc all waiting to give lots of love xx

I must admit I was a little concerned when Ruth told me her little feathered friends were moving into the kennels....thought the residents would be hoping for an early Christmas Dinner! However most of the dogs have been brilliant and taken no notice of them at all. :) The Ducks and the Chickens make a lovely addition to the Daybreaks family! Xxx

Oh this is so exciting! Where else except Daybreaks can you see so many amazing goings on? Can't wait to meet the new residents. Hope all the Greys are being welcoming! xx

This has got to be a first for an RGT Branch

We can test your dogs with cats AND a variety of Farmyard animals AND Fish

We should re-name Daybreaks ... Dr Ruths Zoo! such diverse animals but all Gods creatures!... xxx

As I have a date for hopefully moving house on the 30th November, we had new temporary residents move in to the kennels yesterday...... my ducks! They are going to be at Daybreaks until we move and set up their new enclosure. Fish (outdoor and indoor) are already there and chickens and bantams move today! The Daybreaks Greys were VERY excited! - it is going to be like a zoo by the time I have finished!!!!!! I should start charging for visitors as a new fund raiser!!!!!!

Would you please keep aside a large and a small calender for us. We will be in at the weekend. Thank you.

So sorry you are going to hospital - hope everything goes ok.

For everyone who has requested a calendar - they are in the office with your names on. Thank you so much for your support x

Sorry to hear you are due to be admitted to hospital Nicky.Very best wishes to you. We will have calendars at the Evesham Road Show.

I won't be at the walk at Stratford as I will be in Stroud on Sunday - am hoping to be at The Valley on 22nd though (Evesham Country Park)

Oh Nicky :-(
Sorry to hear you need to go into hospital......will be thinking of you and hope all goes well xxx

Oh Didn't say - make mine a large one!!

Could you save me a calendar please?. not able to make the walk but if it could be taken to Evesham Country Park ( which has had a name change!! now The Valley)on the 22nd, am unable to bring dogs over cos I have to be admitted to Oxford hospital that afternoon for couple of weeks but I will pop over early and pick it up. Thanks muchly. Nicky. X

Amazing our wonderful Bertie is on the front cover, we are so surprised and so completely delighted , smiles from ear to ear .......so proud xx

Large calendar for me please xx probably pop in Thurs or Fri x

1 LARGE & 1 small please - thanks xx

Can you please save me on too. Might be a couple of weeks until I can get to the kennels though. Jo

Oh lovely , can you save me 3 of the large ones please , many thanks Vince

Yay - we have taken delivery of the calendars and they should be at the kennels by the weekend. We have limited amounts so please let us know if you want one x

I have just had the funniest phone call this morning to congratulate me - ha ha - however - NO - I am not pregnant! I am not moving to Cornwall and I am not giving up running the kennels either! Sorry you are stuck with me- for now anyway!

Do you know when the calendars will be available yet? Thanks :-) Becky x

Many thanks for all the offers of a foster home.... one sorted for this case. :-)

I am in desperate need of a foster home for an 11 year old cat friendly greyhound asap until April. If you think you could help please give me a call - thanks Ruth - 07760617287

I have seen Lilah after she has had one of her pamper sessions...she looks stunning! Sure Lorna won't mind you recommending her services :) Xxx

I would like to draw everyone's attention to the wonderful Lorna. I took Lilah for her regular grooming session at the kennels just recently. I know that most hounds are not keen on being bathed, but Lorna's calm, gentle aura and loving kindness (an experienced greyhound/lurcher owner herself) helps put them at ease; even a nervous dog like Lilah. This is her fourth visit and each time she is a little more confident. Weighed, shampooed, ears cleaned, teeth scraped and nails clipped - she emerged 'GLEAMING' and happy. Everyone's asking where I take her. Am I allowed to say?!! Thank you Lorna; it's magic. xxx

thank you to the people who came on a walk with us today... very interested in the greys and hopefully will be picking one up soon...mary/john xxxx

Hi all Patch here its is my birthday on sunday 1/11/15 and I will be at the kennels with my mom/dad and Gracie and Bailey having a wonderful time and lots of fuss with all my friends.....8 years young...xxxx

Apologies for those trying to contact me via text or Whatsapp - I managed to crack the screen on my mobile on Sunday :-( I have got a temporary phone (old style!) and a new screen should arrive today and then I will be back fully in action!

Awesome weekend , well done to all ! x

what a fantastic weekend for Daybreaks loads of re-homings and reserves and a priveledge to volunteer for a wonderful dog charity.... xxx

What an unbelievably incredible, brilliant, fantastic, magical, fabulous weekend at Daybreaks. Fantastic so many dogs homed, fostered and now reserved. Absolutely amazing, shows just how much you all do for these very special well deserving dogs. May you have many more days/weekends like this, so many more hounds find their forever loving home. Many thanks for all you do. You are all so dedicated and special people. X

I am still buzzing from such a busy fabulous day yesterday. 5 lucky greys into homes, Minty into foster and Jet and Nelly reserved - yes most of you have guessed - Jill and Paul have reserved her! I am so sorry to everyone who had to wait to be 'served' - must remember not to give Kate a day off again ;-) Massive thanks to all the volunteers who helped walk, feed and look after all the visitors we had. Daybreaks was truly alive yesterday! Such a wonderful feeling xxxx

Very sorry to hear Chip has passed away. Thinking of his family Xxx

Many of you will remember the gorgeous brother and sister who were homed together back in October 2007, Chip and Pin. Sadly I received an email to tell me that Chip had passed away following renal problems. My heartfelt sympathy goes to his owners Brian and Sue and Pin his greyhound sister. Run Free fella xxxxxxxxx

John we are so very sorry for your loss, we will always remember Silv with such fondness, she was so kind and we still have the picture you both gave us of Mindy, you are in our thoughts, we are so very sorry.

I was so very sad to hear Sylvia had passed away so suddenly. She was a lovely lady and adored all of her Greyhounds...thinking of her husband John and the girls Minty, Flossie, Tessa and Sheena. Sylvia is now reunited at Rainbow Bridge with her beautiful girl Mindy. Xxx

Rob and I started as volunteers with Perry Barr RGT after adopting our first Greyhound in 2001 and finding out through word of mouth, on the internet and having first hand experience of what happens especially the terrible atrocities we come across. Therefore it is time to speak out and would urge you to log on to the following link:

http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/commons-select/environment-food-and-rural-affairs-committee/news-parliament-2015/greyhound-welfare-launch-15-16/

We have to be the voice for Greyhounds. Personally, since running the kennels I have come across some very caring and wonderful trainers, however I have also come across some poor greyhounds in horrific states. We need to do as much as we can to help every greyhound we can - we are their voice........

It has taken me a while to pluck up courage and find the right words to put on this post on behalf of Mr John Eaton.

It is with great sadness that we learnt of the sudden and unexpected passing of Sylvia (web name 'susy' - aka The New Icemaid Clan) recently.

I met Sylvia and John for the first time back in 2010 when they adopted Minty (Vera). They have since gone on to adopt Sheena, Tessa, Flossie and Mindy.

We are thinking of John at this heartbreaking time. We will miss greatly hearing from Sylv and will also miss their visits to the kennels and events. What a wonderful lady - you will be sorely missed x

Sending all our love from Perry Barr RGT xxxxx

Verena, that's lovely, you made me cry! x

A Greyhound's Plea

I came into your home from a place far away;
I’ve no understanding how to live this new way.
It’s all new to me; I’m scared and not feeling smart,
But I look into your eyes and give you my heart.

It all seems so strange and I need your lead
To show me how I’m supposed to succeed.
It’s not that I’m bad or want my own way;
I’m confused and uncertain with each new day.

I only know what I’ve lived before
So I do what I know and can’t do much more.
I trust you to teach me as that’s how I learn;
All I want is to love you and be loved in return.

I’m the putty you hold in your hand to shape;
I’m as good as you make me and for you I wait
To show me the way to be part of your life,
So I won’t disappoint you and cause you strife.

What you give to me I’ll return ten fold;
All I need is to know that I’m enough to hold
In your heart till I am what you want in a friend;
Then I’ll be yours through your life till mine comes to an end

Massage ladies in again today and did a great job on our patch who is fast asleep now in our lounge... They do a great job and many thanks for their service..... Xxx

You are very welcome. Seeing the difference in Lottie was well worth the trip! Keep us posted on her progress!

Hi Kate no hot drinks today as the kettle was broken! Had three staff from HSBC bank who were really friendly and loved walking the greys... Hope to see you soon John/Mary Xx

Thanks Kate for getting back to us see u soon Xxx

Hi John and Mary, yes please park in old Damson Lane as Bob is having his drive resurfaced tomorrow so we will be unable to use it. Thanks so much. Sure all the dogs will be pleased to see you both. :) Xxx

Hi Kate we r popping up to the kennels in the morning to help is it parking in old Damson lane can u please let us know ? thank so much john/mary Xxx

If you are planning on visiting the kennels on Thursday or Friday this week, please park in Old Damson Lane. The drive for the Bed & Breakfast leading to the kennels is being resurfaced and will unfortunately be closed. So sorry for any inconvenience. Kate Xxx

Good luck Jess...hope you find the placement you need. Xxx

I have sent of many emails to vets from the rsvc website as they have to be a training vets, and only 3 replied. So,hopefully I am going to visit each veterinary practise in person and hand in my letter and cv personally to see if they notice me then x

How about Your Vets Stechford? May be worth a try.

Hi Jess my niece did her animal mngt placement at Vet 4 Pets (Sutton Coldfield) they are a pretty big chain so might be worth a try if there is one by you x

Try Marches Vets in Leominster Herefordshire they used to be a training practice.

Been for my interview at College, went great got accepted to all three courses! Slight problem.... Veterinary nursing course I need a vet placement. One thing I cannot seem to get!!

Patch here I had a lovely treat today from the dog massage ladies! I loved ever minute and now flat out by the telly sleeping it off! Big thanks to auntie Lisa for asking the ladies for me..... Xxxx

Big thank you to Lorna today for Paddy and Ele's lovely well care session.They are both so fluffy now! Ele is sparkling white and Paddy has a hint of fawn,think the black has been washed out! We can definately recommend a wellcare session,excellent pity they don't do humans xx

The lovely canine massage ladies were in today and took all the kennels dogs for some massage, even the lovely Patch had a session. They were so good and enjoyed every minute. Look forward to see the massage ladies again soon. x

So many lovely black dogs at this time not too sure who I can cuddle.
Anyway love to all from the New Icemaid Clan xxxxx

nice new pics of the greys all looking great and need homes now!..... xx

Lots of lovely g/hounds at the kennels and the black ones well they are lovely they will always remind me of our first greyhound Kez.

Happy Gotcha Day to your lovely Patch! Xxx

have a great holiday Helen/dave and best wishes to milly.. see you soon at the kennels.... xxx

Patch what a lovely comment from your mom and dad, they love u to bits. Love to you all from The New Icemaid Clan xxxx

Happy Gotcha Day, Patch! Hope you have a lovely day and get extra treats. It will be Milly's 1st Gotcha Day on 28th but we not back from hols until the 30th so will be a delayed celebration! Hope to see you and Bailey and your mum and dad very soon. Xxxx and nose kisses from Milly.

HAPPY GOTCHA to patch u have bin with us for 3 years 2day and we love u so very much. its so very nice to give a Retired Greyhound a home and with lots of T.L.C.Xxxxx

Hi all Patch here I have been with my owners for 3 years now and I luv em to bits....I love playing with my pal Bailey the border collie and love meeting my friends at Daybreaks on sundays..... Mum and dad love me lots... Xxxx

Our muvva wants to know when we can have Zoomies at the new Daybreaks run. We really wants to habs zoomies. Xxxxx

Hi all we have been offered an event on Sat 11th July 12 to 4 in Smith's Wood. Can anyone help me with it ???. Email me asap at. Ladylucklisa@hotmail. co.uk asap.xxxxx

Sad news, your heart was into this. But maybe someone else will take over??
You take care, Sylv & The New Icemaid Clan x

So sad to hear this Muddypaws , i really am ! Good luck for the future both xxx Regards Vince

Hi Muddypaws Sorry to read this Its sad that the poetry booklet won't be happening as was looking fwd to it and thank you for the good intention and idea Bet you've enjoyed reading all the entries lol ! All the best x x

We would like to thank everyone who has sent contributions for the poetry booklet. Sadly, due to circumstances, and a difference of opinion, we feel unable to continue with this fundraising project...and will not be supporting Daybreaks in the future. This decision has not been taken lightly, but due to recent developments, we feel that we have no other option. This is our own personal decision, and does not reflect in any way on the facilities at the kennels, or all of the hard work that is done by the volunteers. We wish Daybreaks every success in the future, and it saddens us that we feel that we can no longer be part of it...especially all of the beautiful dogs. If anyone would like to fund and continue with the poetry booklet...then we would be happy to forward the contributions that we have received to date.

northbound A45 slip road closed off m42... have to double back to Stonebridge island....!

The run is looking fantastic... cant wait for the greys to be running up and down and grassed area completed for future events...would be perfect for barbecue in June.....Xx

Hi rolohound, I am at the kennels on Monday. Lorna may be in too. So hopefully we can trim Rolo's nails for you. Just give us a call on Monday morning to make sure. Kate Xxx

Hi we need to get Rolos nails cut & could pop down on Monday or next Friday hopefully & wondered if someone would be at the kennels who could assist. He had them done as part of a pamper session before & I am not sure if Lorna is the only one who does it. He doesn't like having them done but we will muzzle him & hold him tight. Just trying to work out our options available.

Hi all did anyone see supervet on channel 4? Fitzpatrick did an amazing job on saving a shot grey who had shotgun pellets in his leg and body. The vet removed the pellet and he fixed his broken leg... Dog came from a greyhound charity trust and he did the work free of charge! This man is an absolute genius and should be championed across the animal world.....Xx

Hi all, I am in the process of planning a ladies night, sorry no strippers!! The idea is to have a mini treatment such as a hand massage, facial, etc, wine and nibbles and a few laughs, all proceeds to perry Barr RGT/ Daybreaks. If anyone knows of any beauty therapists who would be willing to help or have any other ideas please e mail me Jill.williams@rgtperrybarr.co.uk. Thanks.

The new run is going to be a great asset to the kennels, allowing all those lovely hounds, who are challenged by a run in the park, to run free. Daybreaks is where we all stepped through the door for the first time and found our first greyhound and started our love of all things "hound" therefore Daybreaks run is in memory of all greyhounds that have gone in and out of that door, past and present. I, personally, love everything I do for Perry Barr RGT and Daybreaks, they have changed my life. Oops got all soppy then!!

Great news ! It's going to be an amazing facility ! Can't wait to see the dogs charging around ! I think just having it as 'Daybreaks run' is perfect , plain and simple ! Exactly what it is ! Not picking out any dog In particular as they are 'All' equally important :) x

Ruth. Without Tara... Daybreaks Beauty you would of never set the kennels up, I think most people would agree that it's a beautiful idea to keep her memory going and for us all to remember what spurned you on to create such a fantastic kennels and helping so many greyhounds find forever homes. Xx.

I have had confirmation that the fencing is being done tomorrow on the Daybreaks run.... it will soon be up and running! Sorry - won't be renaming it - all that happens at Daybreaks is in memory of Tara who started my love of greyhounds and my mission to help others like her. Long live Daybreaks Beauty in all I do!

Muddypaws, I think Rolos Run is a gorgeous name for the new run. I think about her a lot when I'm having a cuddle with my lovely boy Charlie.

For anybody who missed the radio WM programme yesterday you can still listen online. This is the link to the treasure hunt prog http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02p6q68 Well worth a listen to hear Ruth and the hounds,sure Paddy recognised it xx

My friends listen to the treasure hunt every week. They picked the clue up straight away from me having talked about Daybreaks. They even recognised some of the dogs names! ( Do I maybe talk about the kennels too much?!!!) Said it was lovely to hear Ruth chatting and talking about the hounds. Sadly we didn't hear it as we were away at the weekend but sounds like it was great.

Or....even better....and no disrespect to Foxy.....gorgeous boy that he is...in memory of little girl Rolo , who passed away without finding a home...how about "Rolo's Run ???

OR.....how about.....Foxy Paddocks !!!

Sorry...posted before l had finished. For such a small kennels, this is a great asset. Most trainers, and rescues, would give their right arm to have an exercise area like this. We can't wait to use it, as non of our greys have ever been allowed to free run, because they have very little recall...and fields are rarely secure, usually very uneven, and contain many hidden dangers, such as rabbit holes, etc. Sand is such a safe surface. Well done Foxy Boswell for giving it a test run. I'm sure it met with your approval !!! Maybe it should be called Foxy Gallops ??? X.

The new run / gallops is looking fantastic !!! What a wonderful facility it is going to be for the kennel dogs...and hopefully, a great fundraiser for Daybreaks. All credit to Ruth for being so patient in negotiating the lease for tbe land...it took a long time...but is going to be so worth it.

Hi Alan & Pam, Skip came rushing out of the lounge to listen to the dogs barking on the radio this morning too! However it was far too much of an effort for Twiggy to leave the sofa! Xxx

We have just listened to Radio WM online. Great bit of free awareness! Best of all we are sure Paddy recognised the noise of the hounds and he recognised Ruth's voice bless him xx

Brilliant to hear Daybreaks mentioned on Radio WM this morning! Xxx

hi ruth we will tune in on our way to the kennels this morning......Bailey wants to help with the run..... lol...Xxxx

Please tune in to radio WM tomorrow morning especially around 9,30am!

a fantastic week for greys reservations.... please please can kin and duchess find new homes?......Xxx

Paul and I will be there spade in hand!!

Oh wow! Yesterday we had the JCB arrive and the sand for the run. After one day it already looks amazing!

Tomorrow (Sunday) I am appealing for help from 11am.... So..... If you have a spade and a rake and can help, and are free at 11, we would love to see you x

Hi Tinker'sNan, yes please! I'm at the kennels today if you could give me a call x

I don't know if my collecterble doll would be any good to daybreak I have 6 of them I'm willing to let you have to raise money for these beautiful greys these are from the late sevenths and early eightys I do have all the boxes for them also if needed could someone collect from redditch thank you

seen the sand going down for the new dog run today.... looking good just need the fencing completed and away we go!!!!!!!.....

Thanks Muddypaws. Will email it tomorrow. Xx

Hi helenanddave. Of course you can...any Daybreaks dogs or Daybreaks supporters dogs...greyhounds or other breeds...irrespective of which kennels they were from...we love them all !!! lf you can keep the actual message part to no more than 20 words, that would be great.X.

Hi Muddypaws. Our Bridge hound Tia was actually a Monmore dog that we adopted from the kennels in Essington before Daybreak's was set up. Can I still include a message in your booklet? Also I think it is lovely of you to put in a message for Rolo. I remember her coming in, so sad she never got the chance of a forever home. Xx

Thank you all for your feedback. If anyone would like a Remembrance message included in the poetry booklet, please E- Mail the details and your message to me at
charleysbetty@gmail.com or if you prefer, you can text it to me on 07519 711610.
l will be including a message to a little girl named Rolo, who arrived at Daybreaks in October last year...but sadly ...passed away before she had the chance to find her forever home. l don't think that she should be forgotten. X.

I've just been reading the amazing story about sheepdog Don who drove his owners tractor onto the M74! I was so impressed I've sent off an application to the dvla for Paddy's driving licence! When he's passed his test he can drop me off at work then pick his mates up from Daybreaks and go out for the day :-D xx

Fantastic idea Muddypaws although I'm willing to bet there won't be a dry eye when we all read it. So many of our dear hounds have gone to rainbow bridge recently,this would be a fitting tribute to them all xx

Think this is a great idea Muddypaws, although I may have to buy several boxes of tissues before I start reading!xx

Muddypaws a great idea. As you say they never leave us.
The New Icemaid Clan x

Hi Muddypaws I think that would be a lovely idea...whether I could bring myself to read it is another matter ! Lol Thanks You are doing a great job so far x x

It has been such a sad year so far. So many of our beloved greys have crossed Rainbow Bridge. Rocky, Isla, Ted, Basil, Tupence, Buster and Jak...to mention just a few. They never really leave us, they stay in our memories...our thoughts...our hearts...and their spirit stays with us always. As most will know, l am compiling a poetry booklet dedicated to Daybreaks. l am thinking about adding a remembrance section dedicated to Daybreaks dogs. l would like to hear your thoughts on this. It would in include dogs name, racing name as well if required, dates...from - to, and a short message...such as "always in our hearts" ....or...love and miss you". Please let me know how you feel, as l would need to increase the size from A5 to A4 to include this section. Let me know your opinions, and if you are in favour of this, l will ask for your contributions. Thanks...muddypaws. X.

Hi everyone, I just wanted to let everyone know what a great day I had yesterday when me & my sister Star went to the 40th birthday bash event at Worcester Cathedral. The sun shined, the hounds & other breeds came out in their hundreds & everyone had a great day. I even met some new & old Twitter friends. I've had to put it here as we are not Perry Barr dogs although we do a lot to help you guys out. If you want to know more about the day go to my blog Rolohound on the links page. See some of you next week at Aldridge.

Thought for the day! The reason a dog has so many friends is because he wags his tail and not his tongue!

Many thanks to Lorna for Jed and Lottie's pampering session can thoroughly recommend this service I now have two fluffy, clean and shiny hounds!

Come on the lovely folks out there. These great dogs need a home. Having started with one, then two and now four. They deserve a sofa.
Keep them in your thoughts. They will pay you back a million times. Love to all at Daybreaks from The New Icemaid Clan x

A massive...MASSIVE thank you to everyone for your poems for the poetry booklet. l am amazed by the standard of your work. l received 13 poems yesterday alone...some sad...but many were so funny !!! l am having a great time reading them.l would dearly love to share them with you now...but then you wouldn't buy the booklet....so my lips are sealed !!! Daybreaks has soooo many fantastic and loyal supporters, and l thank you all. l may have to add more pages, to fit them all in !!! The poetry booklet will be entitled "Paw Prints On My Heart" and will be available from 1st June. l am hoping to keep the cost affordable, whilst raising as much money for the kennels as possible. l will need to talk to Ruth, but l envisage a purchase price of between £5 - £6. If it proves a hit, then "Paw Prints On My Heart Too" will be out next year...hopefully !!! l am looking at maybe printing a mini booklet just before Xmas entitled "Paws 4 Thought". Price will be £ 3. A great stocking filler. Please folks, continue to give us your support as we can't do this without you. Every penny raised will go to helping the dogs at kennels...and to help the many,many dogs who have yet to arrive. XXX.

Thank you to Tash (TJ) who today sent me two fantastic poems that she has penned herself. Not only are they about greyhounds...
but about her own 2...Rosie-Po & Brae...and..she has included Daybreaks as well !!! See...we can all do it if we try. A couple of glasses of wine and little bit of inspiration is all it takes ! Special thanks also to Verena(DuleekDandy) & Jak'smom for your wonderful poems too. l am waiting with baited breath and and a certain amount of trepidation for Mrs Boswell's contribution....and no Ruth...before you ask...l can't think of ANYTHING that rhymes with spew OR crap. ha ha !!!

Just an update on the poetry booklet : The design for the front cover is done. lt will be A5 size...same size as the Grapevine magazine..
and will be full gloss/full colour. The initial print run will be 250 copies ( hope l am not being over optimistic...lol ) We are funding it ourselves, so every penny from sales will go to Daybreaks/Perry Barr RGT. It will be available to purchase from 1st June from the kennels and also at all of the fundraising events, road shows, awareness days...etc.
Also, we would be happy to see a free copy included in every adoption pack. Oh yeah...nearly forgot...the title will be..............
"Paw Prints On My Heart"
Should it prove popular, then we will fund a second edition next year called.....you guessed it...Paw Prints On My Heart Too !!!
l am also looking at a similar project which will be a mixture of poetry and photos of our greyhounds doing what they love....running !!
This one will be titled : Poetry In Motion.
In the meantime...please keep your poems coming :-)

To all newly retired houndies everywhere

Give me the chance to be your friend
And share my love, you can depend
On me it's true
For all I ask is love from you.

Give me the chance to share your home
Can't promise that you'll never moan
For I need the chance to learn to be
A hound who lives a life thats free.

Instead of toil a life of leisure
A time of peace for me to treasure
To thank you for the life I've found
Just be my friend, I'll be your hound.

With love from Jak's Mom xxxx

Thank you so much Mary. l don't think l have read this poem before...in fact, l'm sure l haven't. lt is really beautiful. l will use a little bit of poetic licence, and change a couple of words, because it would be a shame not to include it. Thanks for suggesting it.X.

Muddypaws, what a fabulous idea!. This isn't specifically animal related but I think sums up how many of us have felt:

Look for me in Rainbows

Time for me to go now, I won't say goodbye;
Look for me in rainbows, way up in the sky.
In the morning sunrise when all the world is new,
Just look for me and love me, as you know I loved you.

Time for me to leave you, I won't say goodbye;
Look for me in rainbows, high up in the sky.
In the evening sunset, when all the world is through,
Just look for me and love me, and I'll be close to you.

It won't be forever, the day will come and then
My loving arms will hold you, when we meet again.

Time for us to part now, we won't say goodbye;
Look for me in rainbows, shining in the sky.
Every waking moment, and all your whole life through
Just look for me and love me, as you know I loved you.

Just wish me to be near you,
And I'll be there with you.

Music and lyrics: Conn Bernard (1990). Vicki Brown

Hi All. Just to let everyone know, we have now displayed each dogs Weight and Height on there descriptions to help those looking to rehome them get a guage as to there size etc. This was a suggestion from a lovely supporting and friend of the kennels based in France !! xx

Most will recognise the first verse of this poem....here is the full version :

IF TEARS COULD BUILD A STAIRWAY

If tears could build a stairway
And memories a lane
I would walk right up to heaven
And bring you back again

No farewell word were spoken
No time to say goodbye
You were gone before l knew it
And only God knows why

My heart still aches with sadness
And secret tears still flow
What it meant to love you
No one will ever know

But now l know you want me
To mourn for you no more
To remember all the happy times
Life still has much in store

Since you will never be forgotten
l pledge to you today
A hollowed place within my heart
ls where you'll always stay

Author Unknown

Thank you to everyone for your response so far regarding the Daybreaks poetry booklet....you obviously love poetry as much as l do...especially when it's about dogs !!!
l am looking at having it ready for print by the end of May...so that it's available to buy at this summers fundraising events. Therefore the closing date for contributions/suggestions will be 17th May.
All contributions submitted will appear in the booklet. Remember...it can be a poem...short verse...saying...or a quote...as long as it's dog related...and all of the money from sales will go to Daybreaks Kennels. So, get your creative juices flowing, and keep them coming...l'm really looking forward to reading them !!! E-Mail them to me at : charleysbetty@gmail.com
Please remember if it's your own work, to give it a title. Many thanks :-)

l will leave you tonight with this one - it makes me smile every time :-)

MY DOG HAS GOT NO MANNERS

My dog has got no manners
I think he's very rude
He always whines at dinnertime
While we are eating food

And when he's feeling thirsty
And wants to have a drink
He takes it from the toilet bowl
Instead of from the sink

He never wears a pair of pants
He doesn't wear a shirt
But worse - he will not shower
To wash away the dirt

He's not polite to strangers
He bites them on the rear
And when l'm on the telephone
He barks so l can't hear

When l complained to Mommy - she said
"Oh, l'm sorry - l thought you knew
The reason that his manners stink
He learns by watching you" !!!

Bruce Lansky 2004

Night night everyone...sleep tight. X.

Muddypaws that's a brilliant idea to compile a book of poems. We love the retired greyhound prayer amongst several. Currently on holiday for Easter, on return I will email some suggestions and a couple of my own writings for consideration if you think they are any good!

And remember...you don't have to be a budding poet laureate to write poetry. Some of the most beautiful and poignant verses ever written, don't rhyme, but they paint a mental picture...and come from the heart...and life's experiences. So start penning...and see your name in print as the author.

What a great idea Muddypaws. Will get my thinking cap on. X

This one is dedicated to my beautiful Bobby Pumpkin...who l miss every day...but that most of us can relate to:

MISSING YOU

I dropped a tear in the ocean.....the day you find it is the day l will stop missing you.

Author Unknown

Hi everyone. l am currently putting together a compilation of poems/verses/and sayings that are dog related. Some are sad...some thought provoking...some humorous...and some very funny. The idea is to have them printed into a booklet in order to raise funds for Daybreaks/Perry Barr RGT. Many will be by famous authors & poets...some by unknown authors...and a few that l have written myself. So...if you have a favourite poem that you would like to see included...or maybe something that you have written yourself...please E-Mail it to me at charleysbetty@gmail.com. It can even be something that you have put into verse about your own dog...past or present!!
Please watch this space over the next couple of days...as l will be printing a few that will make you smile...or bring a tear...or make you think...YES!!! That's my doggie. Don't worry if you can't remember how the poem goes...just give me the title,and l will find it.

r u starting up a beach volleyball team for next Olympics? LOL.......john X

Oh yeah ....and if l see a sandcastle building party suddenly appear on the Events Calendar ...l ain't buying a ticket !!!

Please Mrs B.....don't ask me to come down there with my shovel & rake....not with my bad back !!! Besides....l only have a plastic bucket & spade. Weeeeeeee !!!

412 tonnes of sand were ordered yesterday and we are waiting for its arrival for our 100 meter run at the back of Daybreaks. I can't wait for it to be 'up and running' and want to thank everyone who has sent a donation to make this possible. x

What an incredibly sad and heartbreaking week it has been.
With the loss of three ex-Daybreaks dogs to Rainbow Bridge...l have shed more than a few tears. lt really does bring it home just how precious and fragile life is, and my six have had even more cuddles than usual over the last few days. Here is hoping for some happier news in the coming weeks...with many of the dogs in kennels finding there forever homes.X.

Hi we have just added some more evenrs for both Pets at Home in Sheldon and Perry Barr stores.... if anyone can help out on the days, please get intouch with the co-ordinator for the event. X

Hi Tash I got my car stickers from Daybreaks..they were kept with the leaflets etc in the office Speak to Kate (or Ruth ) and ask if they have any x x

Daft question, but do you sell these car stickers at Daybreaks as I'd like to get a couple? Thanks, Tash

Just wanted to share with you...I have 2 PBRGT stickers in the rear window of my car and on 2 occasions recently at traffic lights I've spotted the car driver behind with pen/paper jotting down the RGT phone number- proof those car stickers do work (well at least I hope that's what they were writing down...havnt had Police at my door yet !! Now I'm after a flashing 'thank you' light !! Lol x

Amazing new Offices in Swan Courtyard. I'm sure we will find many uses for fundraising etc

I would just like to add...for anyone who doesn't know Swan Courtyard, it is a great location, right on the A45, at the Swan island at Yardley. lt is a really prestigious looking building, set in a beautiful courtyard setting.
l am sure that no other RGT branch in Britain
has a facility like this...and combined with a great kennel facility, with the new 100 metre run underway, Daybreaks must be the envy of all the RGT branches. Please folks, let's all continue to support them in any way we can.

l was at the new office today helping to move stuff in. What a fantastic space...very,very big...and really modern and well maintained...and free !!! Well done Ruth & Rob for securing this amazing space, and to the charitable trust who have provided it. l'm sure it will be a big asset and Ruth will find many uses for it. If anyone can provide some potted palms...real or artificial...or any kind of large potted plants to brighten up the reception area, l know that Ruth would be extremely grateful.

Hi lisa we will be going to the kennels on sunday with patch and bailey and hopefully not locked in the rugby car park!!! LOL... john/mary xx

Hello aunty Ruth, mum says that's fab cos when she helped you and auntie Kate in the office it was a bit of a squish and hardly room to swing a cat! Here at the seaside I am being a good girl - nearly ten but still as gorgeous as ever. Mum and me will see you later this year when we visit our pals Lena and Lola'
Daisydog is now wearing her spring wardrobe - auntie Kate would be proud of her!

I have a vision of Ruth walking up and down the A45 outside the new office with a sandwich advertising board. Could have photo's of Risky on the front and Cadbury on the back.I'd do it myself it meant we could get these two beautiful boys in the forever home they so deserve xx

would be nice to have pics of the longest residents at the trust outside new office just to give them more publicity!....mary/john xx

We have a fabulous new big office for us to use at Swan Courtyard on the Coventry Road free of charge to Daybreaks! We are going to use it for storage, talks, meetings, fundraising etc etc. I am therefore appealing for some help with moving things from the kennels to the office (which we are going to do Wednesday,Thursday and Saturday morning). Also we need a few essentials..... a kettle and some chairs - and a few nice tall reception plants would be nice (lol)! If you think you could help, please give me a call - Ruth 07760617287 x

Hi all many thanks to steve and lisa and sue and tom and ruth and kate for pulling together and managing to get us both out of the rugby car park!. in future we will use rear car park to ensure we can get out! LOL john/mary xx ps both patch and bailey are fine despite leaving them for over 6 and a half hours.....

We have two greys arriving today - currently I am unaware of their ages but I am appealing for foster homes for them. If you think you can help please call Lisa who is covering the kennels today on 0121 782 7702. Thanks so much. Ruth

Thanks so much.... What amazing, caring people we know.. Transport sorted x I've been inundated with offers of help.... You are all so caring x

I have an urgent appeal for help for transport for two dogs tomorrow from Stourbridge to the kennels. Sadly a lady has passed away and although her greyhounds were not homed from us, when I spoke to her a while ago i assured her that we would look after her greys if anything happened. If you can help please call me on 07760617287. Ruth x

Thank you so much Ruth and Kate for all your care and support. These days have been very hard and many tears are still being shed but our hearts hold a little glimmer of hope. Please give a hug from from us. Xx

Most will be aware that there has been some concern about one of our foster dogs. With the help of Head Office his future is looking much brighter :-)

Hi all just to let you know beautiful Alice('re mixie) is doing really well,we took her to training Saturday she was a good girl but got very interested in the none Grey's ,She also went on the Sutton walk with her big brother Eddie on Sunday and thoroughly enjoyed been with all the Gang,and loving the attention sausages and liver cake,take care all Lyn Mick Alice an Big Eddie xxxx

Happy12th birthday Ash hope you had a great day with all your lovely treats and presses we will see you very soon sweetheart lots of love and licks from big Eddie and Alice and sending a big smackaroony wet kisses for my lovely Charlie mouse woof woof lick lick xxxxx

Fantastic news that all these lovely girls are finding their much deserved sofas so quickly..every homing is a wonderful achievement for us grey loving humans and hounds alike but it breaks my heart to see all those waiting the longest are STILL waiting patiently for their turn ! Poor Risky...Mel...Cadbury...Kin..Theres so many empty sofas out there just waiting for one of these special patient hounds- After all- who needs cushions when you can have a grey !!!! Hugs to all those still waiting We luffs ya !! x x

We are so, so happy that all ends with such a brilliant result and the family have Gypsy back with them. Love from The New Icemaid Clan x

Hi lisa we are going on Sutton walk this morning and hopefully will be up at the kennels after 12noon with bailey and patch.....

What wonderful news for Gypsy! So pleased she is back at home. Xxx

Amazing news, so pleased for all xxxx

Fantastic news that Gypsy has been re-united with her owners. They must have been frantic with worry...l know l would have been.
A very happy ending thanks to Daybreaks. XXX.

Fantastic news that Gypsy has been re-united with her owners. They must have been frantic with worry...l know l would have been.
A very happy ending thanks to Daybreaks. XXX.

Fantastic news regarding Gypsy,we are so pleased that she is back home as we were so worried about her all week.Well done Ruth and all the dedicated volunteers at Daybreaks for helping Gypsy find her way home.Highlights the need for microchipping! xx

This is great news been worried about wee Gypsy xxx

What good news. Although it seemed to take a while. So pleased.

Hi all. Just had a notification regarding Gypsy the stray that was brought into us last Sunday.... She was reunited with her owners who had Bern searching for her this morning..... Just thought everyone should know that she safely back home. Thanks to everyone who looked after her when she came in and also throughout the week. X

Hope that Gypsy gets homed real soon she is lovely reminds me very much of my sunny bless her xxx

Really hope little Gypsy will soon be in a new home...it's so sad. I look at my two lovely Greyhounds both fast asleep, warm and very much loved and realise they are two of the lucky ones; thanks to Daybreaks. Xxx

Ruth. Please don't worry... She will be rehomed by them very quickly once she has served her time.... You know that deep down..... She was so loving and affectionate... She will be fine.... You do a fantastic job at the kennels. Xxx

Gorgeous little Gypsy the stray was collected yesterday and transferred to the Dogs Home. We have sadly had to do this as we have new arrivals booked to come in and we have a returnee on Saturday. It is just so heartbreaking that we can't help more but I have to tell myself we can't save the world.... :-(

I have completed the Review of Greyhound Welfare Regulations - DEFRA online survey that was forwarded to me - let's keep working hard to help these Greyhounds however we can........

OMG! brought tears to my eyes to read about that poor stray lurcher that came in on Sunday;what a terrible deal at life that poor dogs had.You just want to scoop them all up and take them home,if only we had a home big enough...but I guess that's how Daybreaks started!! xxx

It was lovely being back at the kennels for a short while yesterday and seeing all our inmates..... bless them.... Poor Molly was quite unhappy and Snowy seemed quite stressed.... I hope they find a home soon. I took the little lurcher stray that had been brought to us on Sunday to the vets for a check over. Sadly the people who brought her in said they had seen her being hit by a car and she ended up lying on the traffic island in Moseley. The good news is it seems she is just a little tender but sadly she has kennel cough. Due to the fact that we need every kennel desperately as we have so many greys on our waiting list I am trying to arrange for her to be transferred later :-(

It sounds like Alice has been a tonic for you all xxxx

Hi all another little update on Alice 're Mixie she is absolutely adorable such a loving nature loves her cuddles And food and walks a dream ,loves the car she makes us laugh when she see's the swans or the ducks trying to catch them or she spots the cat on the fence couple of hundred yards away and thinks she can fly lol she also loves her brother Edd who still remains the perfect gentleman even when she bargies into him he just looks at me with them big Brown eye,s he sure does know who the boss is now,She sleeps with Eddie with no problems and remains very clean in the house,lots of love from Lyn Mick Alice an Eddie.xxxx

Hi all an update on Alice 're Mixie she has been a very good girl she's sleeps throughout the night with no problems ,eating very well we have brought her an antigulp dish and has eaten beautiful today and no choking ,Eddie is still behaving like the perfect gentleman and we look forward to meeting you all at the Stratford walk tomorrow.xxx

Thank you all for your lovely comments 're Mixie AKA Alice,we are so very proud of Eddie he as been a perfect gentleman withs Alice as he was with Daisy ,Those that know Eddie will know he can be a little vocal lol thank you all love Lyn ,Mick,Eddie,an Alice.xxx

The Pet Blood Bank will be visiting the kennels on Tuesday 17th February. Greyhounds make excellent blood donors and it is great to think the donation your dog gives can help save the life of someone else's beloved pet. If you are interested in bringing your Greyhound along to donate or would like to know more about the procedure, please contact Clare at the Blood Bank - 01509 23 22 22, she will be happy to answer any questions you have. Thanks so much. Xxx

I must add a belated thank you for Sam an Melysa for there close support on Saturday evening when we lost our beautiful Daisy xxxx

So sorry we are late replying but would like to thank you for all the kind condolences on the loss of our beautiful Daisy ,she was such a beautiful girl we are trying to come to terms with our sudden loss she will be back home with us this afternoon run free beautiful Daisy love Lyn Mick an Eddie xxxx

So sad to read about Daisy. Run free beautiful girl at Rainbow Bridge - you will be greatly missed by your family who love you. XXXXXX

So sorry to hear about Daisy she was such a lovely girl. Thinking of you all and sending love. Xx

What a real shock it was to read the sad news about Lyn & Mick's beautiful Daisy. Run free gorgeous girl. You will be much missed by your mum, dad & greyhound bro Ed. Thinking of you all, love from Linda, Paul & the girls xxxx

Very sorry to hear the sad news about Daisy. God Bless her. Xxx

Dear Lin, Mick and Eddie, I'm so sorry to hear that you lost the lovely Daisey, what a shock for you all but at least you were there and it was quick. love and hugs Julie, Lucy and Fee xx

Sorry about your loss of Daisy. Such a shock. Thinking of you at this difficult time. Love & licks from Mike, Emma, Rolo & Star

so sorry to hear about Daisy, it must have been such a shock for you to lose her so suddenly. But a perfect way for her to cross the bridge, cosy on her own bed with her family around her. sending you all hugs. Run free Daisy. xxxx

So very sorry to hear of the loss of the lovely Daisy such a truely gorgeous girl -love to Lyn,Mick and Eddie from Debbie,Barry and Milly XXX

Lovely words Melysa,I spoke to Mick early this morning and I was so sad to hear that lovely Daisy had suddenly crossed rainbow bridge.We will miss seeing her going for walks with Ed,a beautiful and much loved girl.Run free Daisy another bright star in heaven! Love from Alan,Pam and Ele & Paddy at number 12 xx

Heaven gained another angel yesterday - our lovely friends Lyn & Mick (with Ed) lost their other grey, Daisy. She went suddenly, but peacefully on her bed with her family. Much love to Lyn, Mick & Ed, run free, beautiful, gentle Daisy x

So sorry for your loss Carol Run free Kylie with your new Angel wings xxx

Would like to say a HUGE thank you to Norman for taking the 3 dogs out today. Your a STAR. xxxx

Carol, one of our volunteers lost her beautiful little Kylie today. She was such a sweet girl, so happy and affectionate. God has gained another special Angel. Lots of love to Carol. Xxx

Hope you are continuing to be a "good" patient Ruth. Get well soon...we miss you lots! Xxx

I had delivery of a beautiful bouquet of flowers yesterday from 'all at Perry Barr RGT'. I just want to say a massive thank you for thinking of me, and I am even more grateful to everyone who is helping Daybreaks to continue running whilst I am off - I am surrounded by so many wonderful friends xxxxxx

Our thoughts are with Ruby and John. So sad to have to say goodbye to beautiful Lady. She was such a fantastic ambassador for greyhounds as pets at Melbicks alone. Sleep tight lovely Lady.
Lots of love from Linda, Paul and the girls xxxx

God Bless Lady...lots of love to her family. Xxx

Sad news, Lady was such a wonderful girl. Run free beautiful. Sending love and hugs to Ruby and John. xx

I am so sorry for your loss. Run free sweetie.xxxxx

I only met Lady a few times but what a joy she was, my thoughts go to Ruby and John xxxxx

Sending hugs to Ladys family. It is so hard to have to let them go. Run free Lady. Xx

I am so sad to hear the news about Lady - sending big hugs and much love - and so does Wispa to her special Auntie Ruby and Uncle John xxxxx

Sending love and thoughts to Ruby and John tonight who said goodbye to their beloved Lady today, she was 12 years old and they had her on their sofa for 8 1/2 years. Run free at the bridge beautiful girl, always happy and always waggy tailed, we will miss you on roadshows.

Hi All it was a rollover on the Lottery this week at the Kennels, so why not have a go on this coming Saturdays. x

Sorry to say I always have a problem getting on the Kennels News site, but by & by what do I see but Rocky, Dave,Tiny, Henry & Sally reserved and Rosa rehomed. Love to all from The New Icemaid Clan xxxxx

We have three gorgeous new arrivals scheduled for today at Daybreaks around lunchtime. If you fancy helping with their arrival (bathing, weighing, photographing, settling in) you are more than welcome! Just give me a call! Ruth x

Happy Christmas to all at Daybreaks. Hope everyone has had a lovely day. Xxx

Merry Xmas to everyone, houndies and humans! Hope you all have a great day. Xx

Just to say, what a fantastic job Ruth and all the rest of the team do.. you all deserve a medal. I know that all the houndies and volunteers will have had a fab day thanks to your selfless commitment. God bless you all. Xxxxx I had been trying to convince the family to foster to no avail (yet). So happy beautiful Rosa has gone out. I really love her.x

Massive thanks to Tina for cooking a fabulous Christmas breakfast for all the inmates and Martyn, Karen and Alison who came up this morning to help :-) Rosa has gone out to foster - yay! Robbie brought up Christmas dinner for us to share with Bob and I had my traditional photo of our 5 greys by the tree:-)

As Basil was shaking Robbie has taken ours home and all is quiet here now - which is fabulous as I've had time to play time with the boys and girls on my own - something which rarely happens... Merry Christmas to everyone - let's hope next year brings plenty more homes for our beautiful greys. x

Christmas Wishes to everyone working at the kennels today and tomorrow. We tend to forget that there are kind people giving their time over Xmas to look after the boys and girls. You are all so kind, and l'm sure that the dogs will love their Chrissy dinner !!! Love to you all...and of course...the greys. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Oh no! Maybe one of the dogs has borrowed it to call Santa! Hope it turns up....Xxx

Eeek - I have lost my mobile :-( I have been up to the kennels and diverted the calls through to our land line so I can still take the calls...... I am sure it is in a very safe place :-(((((((((((((

Thank you for the kind offers to help with the post ops. We have the girls booked for the 19th and 23rd sorted so far :-)

Hi Ruth we will be down to the trust sometime early next week with patch and bailey . cheers john/mary x

Mrs B...when are you not on the scrounge !!! Don't know why you apologise any more. Oh that's right...you did'nt. lol.
Would loved to have helped...but l think we will need a stacking system in our little house soon !! l am sure there are loads of kind people out there with oudles of space who can help...come on folks...tis the season of good will after all. X.

It is me again on the scrounge for help again! I have 4 gorgeous girls being speyed and wondered if anyone had space for a poorly for a little while? Otherwise our house becomes the animal hospital and just a little more mental!

The schedule is: December 18th x 1, 19th x 2 and 23rd x 1. If you think you could help with any of these, please give me a call - 07760617287! Ruth x

We would take them all if we could x x If only we could win the lotto we would take the lotto !!

Come on everyone - please help! We have lots of beautiful greys in foster homes (Emmie, Louis, Ash & Kylie) but what they really need is a permanent home to call their own - wouldn't that be a perfect Christmas present for these guys after losing their Dad...... as well as the gorgeous Woody, Paddy and Sophie.....

Look here Muddypaws - I share the muddypaws with you - 24 in total ! and if you want any tea tonight and any other night you had better share those paws verbally as well as literally. I will set Louis on you - you know he has learned how to bark to protect the garden so he must think he is a guard dog now his 4 muddypaws are under the table - and everywhere else. See you later.

Hold on a cotton picking minute !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mrs Muddypaws!!!! Where have you come from. l know nothing of this !!! l have spent ages perfecting my image as an eligible bachelor ....and then you come along and ruin it !! Just because l bought you a couple of drinks at the Xmas Show...how dare you presume woman. Go and find your own nickname....Flippin cheek!! l will be having words with you this evening !!!

I cannot put into words my sincere thanks to everyone who has helped at the kennels while we are away enjoying our Christmas in Padstow. It has been a much needed and wonderful break and only made possible with the help of amazing friends x

It has been great bringing Foxy and Wispa to enjoy the beach and massive thanks to Joyce looking after Basil, Joe and Maggie :-)

Thanks so much to everyone who helped out at the kennels today, especially Sara, Sarah and Jess...It was a very busy day! Thank you also to the lovely couple who reserved Polly this morning...they came to see her and ended up helping carry lots of boxes of donated food into the kennels! :) Xxx

You may have noticed that there have been problems with the Alumni photos on our website. This (I think) is because we are in the process of adding all the information for the greys that we homed prior to this current website being available. You will therefore see dogs appearing as recently homed when they were homed a while back! Sorry for the problems!

Hi Ruth i will have one or two the 3 cats can go upstairs in the bedroom as long as they get on with all my 4 that's fine it one night come everyone lets pull together it all about the dogs xxx

Hi Ruth we will see u at about 12.30pm with bailey....john/mary xx

Yay - 3 offers so far - thank you...... :-)

hi Ruth I am off work this week. don't know if we can help. we could take a grey for the day and maybe the night... call us john/mary

I am desperately appealing for help tomorrow - we are having the under bed heating fitted in the first block (I was only told this afternoon!). This will mean that we have to relocate 7 dogs for the day and overnight. If you think you could help - please give me a call ASAP. You can contact me on my mobile on 07760617287 until 10pm this evening if you can help. Thank you so much. Ruth

The work has started on the new flooring and under bed heating in the kennel blocks - we desperately need your help to raise the funds to cover the cost of this. For those hounds not lucky enough to have found a home by Christmas, you will know they are warm, comfy and content - even £1 will make a difference, please log on to: www.justgiving.com/christmasatdaybreaks2014 - YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE XXXXXXX

What fab news. Congratulations and well done, it must have been hard work and a struggle. I know this will be appreciated by lots of greys, their osners and the residents.

congratulations Ruth on finally getting the go ahead for the run at the back of the kennels! Well done for all your hard work in clinching the deal! Love mary/john patch and bailey x

Just had chance to sit down and look at my Daybreaks 2015 calendar. It's beautiful. To anyone without one, it's a must.

We have our fabulous calendars available at the kennels - £10 for the large and £6 for the slimline one...... they are going fast :-)

Just to let you know our delivery of warm and cosy fleeces has arrived at last....Parcel force couldn't find the kennels! They are ideal to keep your Greyhound warm especially at bedtime if your heating goes off. Skip is happy as he won't have to wear Twiggy's cast offs anymore! Xxx

Well deserved night off tomorrow Ruth, lots of dancing and singing!

Ruth.....if you find yourself with that much spare time in future...then maybe catch up on that paperwork...mmm....oh...and that van could do with a good wash !!! Thought you would have done that while you were waiting at the vets...instead of sitting down. :-)
Bless...you need to slow down a bit....but we all appreciate everything that you do...and l'm sure that the dogs do too !!! XXX.

Well....l notice that your last post last night was at 1.37 am.....and your next post was 7.47 am. By my calculations, that's a break of 6 hours and ten minutes !!! l hope that you used that time productively, and you wer'nt just skiving off !!! Maybe we should clone you now....before you burn out completely !!! X.

Keep up the good work Ruth , you deserve a medal x x

What a busy day yesterday - off to the kennels to pick up Louis and Isla. Dropped Louis at the vets for his castrate and dental and took Isla over to Bartley Green to her new foster home. Back to the vets with Basil early afternoon, Ash to the vets mid afternoon and had to leave him there and then back to the vets to collect Louis and Ash yesterday evening! I think I should have my own chair in reception! Poor Louis has been very unsettled all night but I am sure this is due to what he went through yesterday - I have tried everything to console him :-( Pity it isn't Halloween today as I feel like a walking Zombie!!!!!!

The Pet Blood Bank will be visiting the kennels on Tuesday 28th October. There are some spaces still available if you are interested in your Greyhound becoming a donor. They need to be under 9 years of age and weigh over 25Kg. The Pet Blood Bank is a fantastic organisation and you can be sure the donation your Greyhound gives will be used to help another dog in need. For more information please contact Clare at the Blood Bank on 01509 23 22 22, she will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Skip will be going along...he loved the toy and bowl of Chappie he was given after his donation! Xxx

We have had the kind offer of donated items from Great Barr and Worcester and wondered if anyone could collect them..... if you think you could, please give me a call x Ruth

Oooops - really sorry - I have managed to delete someones comment made last night by clicking on the screen too quick :-( If your comment has been removed - I apologise and ask if you could repost - unfortunately it doesn't tell me who posted it and what it was about!

Also, we have still had no one claim the keys found in the Olton area...... if you are still searching - we can reunite you with them!

I had a telephone call to say that someone has found a bunch of keys in the Olton area with our keyring on. If you have lost a set, please give me a call and we can help you reunite!

I had a telephone call to say that someone has found a bunch of keys in the Olton area with our keyring on. If you have lost a set, please give me a call and we can help you reunite!

Well Lewisfuggie, I'll join you as no training involved if you need it.
Sylvxxxx

Hi all.... just wondering if anyone would be up for another sponcered event..... a night In the most haunted house.. pub... hotel in the west midlands. ... we could be sponcered to do a ghost hunt ???. What do people think ??? and we wont have to train for this one. Lol. Let me or alison know by commenting. Lisa. X

it is fantastic looking at the pics on the site and seeing 8 trial doggies. This is fantastic and i hope they all go green and show as rehomed soon. xxxxxxx

The Daybreaks Lottery currently stands at £68 rollover! it is just £2 a square..... If you would like a go for this week to be in with a chance of winning this rollover which is matched by the bonus ball on tonight's lottery, you can either pop into the kennels or give us a call and pay by card over the phone.

More sad news today about the passing of ex-Daybreaks inmates...... Run free Mars and Gordon xxxx

Sadly there has been a fire at a local kennels. This meant that we were asked by Head Office to take in some dogs urgently. Because of this we are full to bursting and had to cancel the new arrivals from our ever increasing waiting list.

If you think you could offer a home to one of our beautiful greys, please contact us as soon as possible. Although they are large in size, once settled into their new routine in their new home, you almost don't notice you have one. Many sleep for the majority of the day and require very little 'maintenance'. Once used to meeting other breeds and cats they will react much less (if they do at all) and when you think of the life they have lived so far, they have a lot to learn but I promise they will repay you threefold with what they can offer.

I know I certainly didn't want a dog to start with, was worried about the extra work and time and had many negative comments about the breed/size etc to start with but I wouldn't for the world be without a greyhound in my life now (in fact I prefer dogs to people!).

If you are thinking and unsure about adopting, come in and have a chat and maybe take one on trial. We will support you every step of the way if you need it.

Thanks so much to Ruth for all the time and effort she puts into producing the Grapevine...the information on corns, teeth cleaning and the article regarding the Perry Barr RGT, Daybreaks Kennels and Daybreaks Trust were all really interesting. Loved all the photos especially the one of Charlie and Melysa! Xxx

Hi Ruth

'Pinched' a copy of Grapevine off Roger at Sally's training class last night - I seem to have dropped off the mailing list - my fault as forgot to send the cheque! Is it possible to join the mailing list by direct debit so I don't forget to pay you again. Thanks Sue x

We have had the Grapevines delivered to the kennels! If you are willing and able, it would help greatly if you could offer to hand deliver to your local area. If you think you could help with this, please give me a call asap. Ruth 0121 782 7702.

I have 4 extra places for the Wolf Run on Sunday 7th September! If you are interested, please let me know asap! I have to book by 7pm this evening. It is £48 to register...... http://www.thewolfrun.com/ We now have a team of 23!

I have 8 extra places for the Wolf Run on Sunday 7th September! If you are interested, please let me know asap! I have to book by Wednesday evening.

We have had such a busy week! It has been full of vet runs but thankfully all those seen are doing well!

On Thursday we had a team of 14 from Land Rover who spent the day painting the kennels as part of their community initiative. It was an absolute hive of activity and they also cleared the car park at the back of the kennels - it now looks gigantic so parking will hopefully be a little easier for our 8th Birthday celebrations on Sunday!

The disabled ramp and surrounding area has been worked on by Paul and looks absolutely fantastic now.

The preparations for the open day are well under way and my day has an early start as I am off to Asda at 7.30am to get all the BBQ food and will be back home to see a very special girl (Goldie) off on trial to her new home - it pays to have a Trust dog at home when someone needs to pop round to collect something!!!!!!!...... :-)

I apologise if you have sent me an email over the last few days, but for some reason I cannot log in or access my emails (ruth.boswell@rgtperrybarr.co.uk). If you have sent an enquiry, please re-direct it to kate.smiles@rgtperrybarr.co.uk or give me a call at the kennels on 0121 782 7702. Many thanks, Ruth

For the volunteers who travel to the kennels on the number 966 or 900 bus... I have been told the bus route has changed and the bus no longer travels along the A45. A new road has been opened around the perimeter of the airport and there is a stop by the nearby Tristar Hotel.

How nice of the Gilson Ladies. I am sure they loved Pippa's singing! Xxx

I would like to say a big thank you to the Gilson ladies club, who, following the talk we did for their group tonight, filled my car with duvets, sheets, blankets, towels and tins of sardines! As well as a donation of £25, and for putting up with Pippas singing! Thank you for making us feel so welcome. Jill and Paul.

Hi muddy paws, we have a cupboard full of Burns at the moment, thanks to the lovely Mr. Robbie Boswell! Xxx

Hi Ruth / Kate. Could you put a message on here when you get some more Burns in. TA. X.

Perry VIP Club.... Team Leader Req.... Is anyone interested in taking over from Fiona and working with me (Lisa) on Perry VIP Club ? Fiona has started a new job and feels she cant give the time to the Club that she wants to.... Please email perry@rgtperrybarr.co.uk

The Daybreaks Lottery is up to £56 rollover.... if you would like a go, just give us a call.... just £2 a square! :-)

We are in great need of tinned fish and dog meat at the kennels,if anyone could spare a tin or two please please pop them up to the kennels. Massive thanks x

what a fab day again at the kennels, with two new arrivals - Livvi and Gordon and Andy being reserved, 2 enquiries about Smartie (viewing tomorrow) and Max being adopted into his forever home. x Plus lots of thanks to the volunteers who helped out today and for Norman for taking Andy out and Lorraine taking smartie out on Sutton Walk which resulted in the above... Go team Daybreaks.... P.s Its RUTHS birthday tomorrow. xxxx

For everyone who has enquired about raincoats recently, we received a delivery at the kennels today. For the Greyhounds wishing to try on a nice new mac...a changing room is available! Xxx

Fabulous news on the rehomings ( & FFC members!) Oh....and as for Ken - well, brilliant, just brilliant! :-)

It really is amazing how generous everyone of the Daybreaks team is with their time & input to help all they can with the lovely hounds.

What a day Lisa!

So happy for all the lovely Greyhounds who found homes today. Xxx

Would like to say a HUGE thankyou to all the Volunteers at the Kennels today and especially Jill & Paul who only popped in for 10 mins at 10.30 this morning and Sue & Steve again who only popped in to see Jill and Paul..... Guess what we were that busy they ended up staying until late afternoon. Guess what though, we rehomed 4 dogs !!! Thank you again, Lisa. x

Thanks so much to Ruth for taking Albert and Charlie home :)) We have all been so worried about their poor feet. Hope to hear good news for the boys from the vet tomorrow. Xxx

Albert and Charlie stayed at home again today. I left at 8.30am and Robbie got home at just after 5 and there was just one wee on the mat. I have checked on them on the cameras throughout the day and they have literally spent the whole day sleeping. I am so pleased they are so settled.... they are being golden. They are back to the vets tomorrow afternoon for a check up.

hi patch here... next week been with my mum/dad for 2 years... and I love it here especially with my new collie mate bailey... such a lively puppy..... a grey is a must have pet and our loving loyal and so easy to walk!.... love john/mary great barr... xxx

Great news that Albert and Charlie are already improving after a short time at the Boswell Animal Hospital (or is that Hotel?) Just goes to show what a difference being out of the kennel environment can make and being able to have the dressings off should make all the difference. I hope they continue to improve during their stay as they are both lovely lads. Talking of your crew getting upset....we have had some funny moments with the lampshades too. Lola absolutely hated it when Norris was with us and had to wear the lampshade and then Lena haunted her by wearing it when she had her corns done and more recently when she was stitched back together. She would bark and get very cross if a lampshade approached her! When she had her own toe amputated and had to wear it though, it didn't bother her a jot! Talk about double standards.....xx

Do these greyhounds put us through the mill or what.So nice to know that Charlie and Albert are on the mend, thanks to Auntie RuthmRuth. I'm sure Lola ..Jed....and Rosie will be back on their feet soon!!!

Glad to hear things are looking up for these 2 boys at last!!!

Great news! Xxx

We have had a very settled night with Albert and Charlie - no accidents (yay!) and they have just had their breakfast. Albert is already weight bearing and their op sites look really good. I'm so pleased. I am going to leave them at home this morning and keep an eye on them on the cameras and see how they do....

So very pleased to hear Charlie and Albert's feet are looking better. Xxx

Poor Albert and Charlie - I took them both to the vets today for dressing change & wound checks. Albert's foot was swollen and Charlie's was very red and painful for him. It is felt that as they have been bandaged so much they are not healing well. To have the bandages off it was suggested to take them out of the kennel environment, and keep a close eye on them..... so guess where they are tonight...... Boswell Animal Hospital ha ha! They have settled in nicely and already in just 8 hours, both their feet are looking so much better and less angry. They have had to be separated and therefore have half of my kitchen as they were upsetting my crew and Poppy as they were crashing into them with their lampshade collars but they seem very relaxed and happy. I will keep you updated on how they get on...

I popped up to the kennels late yesterday afternoon to drop off supplies of brown bread and peanut butter and collect the post... well I needed an excuse to visit even though I am officially still on holiday 'til Tuesday..... it is amazing what can change in just one week.... however 'my kids' remembered me - Isla went crazy and so did Liam, Albert and Charlie - but my heart broke at seeing Duggie there. He just tucked his head into me and looked so sad but I know he is in the right place to be helped. If I didn't have Poppy at home (along with my 5 which includes a very poorly Basil) he would of been popped in the car. I am going to enjoy my last day of holiday and can't wait to be back tomorrow. Having another day off means I can leisurely take Poppy around the park meeting as many dogs as we can!

Poppy decided to sleep downstairs last night. She is house trained, not at all food aggressive and sooooo loving. I really want her to find a permanent home rather than her now bouncing around from one home to another.... so if you think you could give this girl a chance - you are more than welcome to pop and see her at our house and see what you think......

Thank you to everyone who has covered for me whilst I have been away - I am much more relaxed and ready to deal with whatever comes my way once again!

If anyone can spare a tin of pilchards, sardines or dog food next time they are visiting the kennels, the residents of Daybreaks would be most grateful! Thanks so much. Xxx

Hope you are having a lovely break Ruth. Was up at the kennels today and everything was running like clockwork. Please step away from the laptop and enjoy the rest of your time away x

On second thoughts....bet she got it in her handbag !!! Found the kitchen sink and two greyhounds in Terry's the other day !!!!!! Better have a head count at the kennels me thinnks ?????????

Oh, Mrs B !! What's to be done with you ??? Rob...please confiscate that laptop !!! Did she sneak it in the suitcase ?? Both enjoy the rest of your hols & chill out. X.

Well Ruth you and the family will have a relaxing time away. I feel you do not have to worry at the kennels, but I know your love and care is there. Others are also very caring.
Have a lovely time. The New Icemaid Clan xxxx

It is quite dangerous bringing a laptop on holiday! I cannot stop from checking updates about the kennels and am really missing being there, despite really needing a break. I am in Padstow for a week and had a lovely time on the beach yesterday with Boo who we homed here a few years ago.... I will put some photos on Facebook. Thank you to everyone who is at the kennels helping to cover whilst I am away x

So sad Charlie and Albert both have to go through another operation. Ruth is right they really are two of the most lovely boys you could wish to meet. They have so much love to give. Xxx

Poor, poor Albert & Charlie, I love them both x

I am so upset - I took Albert and Charlie to the vets today as they are both still limping a month after their corn surgeries. With Charlie's toe still swollen and Albert extremely tender, it is felt that the only other thing that can be done is to amputate their poorly toe. They both came in limping months ago and we have tried everything but I think this is for the best and everyone seems to look past one that is lame despite both boys being so lovely. We will keep you posted.....

Totally agree with Lewisfuggie. Just don't understand why the lovely black greys have to wait so long xx

New here - went to Melbicks on Saturday to see the lovely greyhounds - can't wait for my house to be built so I can move in and fill it with fabulous greys!!! :) x

Come on guys......We love all greyhounds regardless of colour, but at the moment wereally need to help our black hounds as they often have to wait the longest for homes! - Come on, why not rehome one of our fab BLACK BEAUTIES. xx

Yesterday flew by! The gorgeous Isla and Peanut went off to Brueton Park (you can read all about their trip on their profiles) and Torres, Smartie & Liam went off to Melbicks for the roadshow. Smartie was shattered when she came back!!!

The lovely Louis was signed up who came along with little Cally who is also doing really well. Ginny went out on trial and we are keeping our fingers crossed she gets on well. We also had a viewing for a family who need a cat friendly grey for their elderly cat.

The Easter Hamper went off to it's new home and I scared the woman at Tescos by buying 15 loaves of brown bread and a equally large quantity of peanut butter ready for the lunchtime sandwiches for the greys whilst I am away next week!

I am off to take Mac in for his castrate today to Fivelands Moseley and we have a new arrival coming in from the track. Hopefully we will get some info on Cadbury the stray that was brought in at the weekend. You just want to munch him - he is gorgeous x

Yesterday was one of those days where I came home buzzing at what a great team I am surrounded by on a daily basis :-)

Well today has been a long cold day - hardly any visitors - but a big thank you to the volunteers who braved the cold and rain today to help - I really really appreciate it xxxx

I had lots of lovely Easter chocolates to give out to those who came so I guess I will have to take the surplus home and have a chocolate fest later this evening!

Our gorgeous new arrival Mac met his old racing kennel mate Isla and she remembered him well - after all - she did bite him when she was kennelled with him we were told! She did give him a lick through the bars, we tried to pair her up with him but she told us in no uncertain terms that she really does like her own space - and would like to find a home where she can be a special little diva all on her own! :-)

Whoooooahooooo it's another rollover! The Daybreaks Lottery now has £71 in the pot! If you would like a go it is £2 a square and the winning number is the bonus ball from the national lottery drawn this coming Saturday. If you are popping by the kennels please have a go or you can pay by card over the phone. Many thanks, Ruth 0121 782 7702. Half the proceeds from this go towards our foster costs and half goes out in prize money.

Congratulations to Nick who owns Riley who won the Easter Hamper! A fabulous £110 was raised so a big thank you to everyone who had a go x

We have a fabulous big basket of Easter goodies that was donated by Louise Donnelly. The draw is tomorrow at 2pm and raffle tickets are only £1 a strip. The money raised from this goes towards our foster costs x

Come on everyone - the Daybreaks Lottery is up to £56 winnings - if you would like a go - it is just £2 a square and the draw is on the bonus ball of the lottery tonight. You can pay over the phone by credit card if you can't pop up to the kennels x

If anyone is interested in any of the greys we have currently out in foster, just give us a call and we can either arrange for them to come to the kennels or you can have a chat with the foster family.

So very sorry to hear this sad news about Ty. I spent many hours with them both at events. Ty enjoyed his retirement to the full travelling around on public transport with Derek. The pair can be seen on the RGT dvd travelling on a train. Rip beautiful boy your gentle nature helped to home many greys xxx

Such sad news about Ty, my heart goes out to Derek and Jean. We spent many a happy hour on roadshows together, he was a very special boy. Run free Ty. Xxxxx

That is very sad news about Ty and our thoughts are with Derek and Jean.
It's because we met and talked to Derek and his lovely dogs at Notcutts that Paul and I ended up at Daybreaks in Spring 2010 and chose Lola to come to live with us. I'm sure there must be others as well with similar tales to tell, so the good work done by Ty at venues like Notcutts, lives on. xxxx

My heart is absolutely broken at the news of the passing of Ty. He was adopted in 2008 by the lovely Derek and Jean who subsequently adopted Dee. Ty and Dee were well known around Dorridge and my heartfelt sympathy goes to Derek and Jean who gave him the best time of his life. Run free fella - I will really miss you xxxxxxxxx

I am desperate for people to foster at the moment as the kennels are absolutely so full up we are bursting at the seams...... we have 2 new arrivals today which we just didn't want to cancel as they have been waiting for so long for a space.

If you can help for even a couple of days this would be great.

Yes, you can collect from Crufts! Thanks so much

Hi Ruth. If you're taking some to Crufts, I can get one there, so save the postage on ours. Mand x

Can we collect from Crufts?

We have the Grapevine ready to be posted out...... if you are able to pop by the kennels to collect it please pop in or telephone me to let me know you can collect - this will help to save postage - every penny matters!

Wow! What a wonderful day for the residents at Daybreaks...so many reserved and a new home for Frank!! Ruth and everyone who helped at the kennels today must be exhausted. Well done to you all. Xxx

I would like to say a massive thank you to Mr Brown who kindly sent us a cheque for £50 after seeing us at Melbicks recently. Unfortunately I do not have an address to send a thank you :-(

Look forward to seeing u back tmoro Ruthy. Just wanted to thank little Jess as well for coming up to help all week. X

Uh oh! Ruth fighting fit, that means office will be reorganised, kennels scrubbed with an inch of its life and lots of new ideas! We luv ya really and are soooo pleased you are better. Xxxxx

Yay!!!! Looking forward to seeing you Ruth. Xxx

Whooo hooo! I am back tomorrow! I have been off all week with a rotten chest infection but am fighting fit now and can't wait to be back. Thank you so so much to Kate, Sara, Sarah, Jill and everyone who has helped at the kennels to cover..... such a godsend to be able to rest at home and not worry :-) xxxx

For everyone who has made enquiries regarding winter Blizzards and fleecy coats we now have them back in stock at the kennels. Xxx

We had a very busy day at the kennels today...Jess and Delphy homed and Isla and little Boo out on trial. Thanks so much to everyone who helped out, you are all brilliant! Xxx

We have a triple rollover on the Daybreaks Lottery at the kennels - a nice chunk of cash just waiting for a winner...... if you would like a go - it is just £2 a square - you can pay over the phone by card or pop up to the kennels - you have got to be in it to win it! :-)

I am so very grateful for the offers of foster homes for the two greys. Cally is going in for a dental tomorrow so I have her at home but she is off to a foster home on Friday and thank you to Jill for taking Mystic. xxx

I am appealing for help..... the kennels are currently bursting at the seams and I have been asked for help with two greys that are currently homed. The owner is having personal problems and needs help for a short while. The two greys (one female aged 8 and a male aged 9) are being dropped off at Daybreaks this morning. If you think you could offer a short term foster home for one or both of these, please please give me a yell as soon as possible.... I am not sure where we will be putting them otherwise!!!!! :-(

Petplan and the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) have joined forces for Animal Charity Awards. The awards celebrate outstanding animal charities and not-for-profit organisations who have gone that extra mile to help rescue and rehome animals in need. Find out more and how to nominate here http://www.petplan.co.uk/aboutpetplan/charity-awards-2014.asp

Hi. Paul has sent Robbie a text saying Paul & I can help out at Just for Pets depending on the dates, so we'll just wait to hear back from him. Lena as ever would be there to provide the entertainment and Lola to demonstrate the other end of the grund spectrum ;-)
x

Hi Poppysmum - Robbie is waiting to hear from the store manager about dates. As soon as he knows it will be put on the events list! x

We can help if it doesn't clash with Melbicks.

Hi Ruth.
When is the roadshow?, I cant see it listed! anyway, I would be happy to help out x

Rob Boswell is also looking for volunteers to help doing an awareness roadshow at the Just for Pets at the Swan Centre in Yardley. If you are interested, please give him a call on 07545783022 or give his lovely secretary (me!) a call on 07760617287 :-)

Our e-newsletter is due out soon. We've had people asking how they can get on the mailing list.

Here is what to do:
•You will need to have an account on our website. (If you haven't got one click on register and follow the instructions)
•Once you are logged click on the Account section (on the homepage under your nickname).
•Under your details (check your email address is correct) you'll see some tick boxes.
•If no-mail is ticked you will not receive the newsletter.
•If you tick the other boxes you will receive it.

I hope that helps.

Thinking of you and Shrew, Ruth. Hope she will be well very soon. xx

Best wishes to Shrew, hope she's ok xx

Hibiscrub - maybe feature this in the next grapevine? I have been keeping mine so should the need arise I can look back and refer to previous articles e.g. corns etc maybe just a general section on what to look out for when a grey has to go to the vets for surgery ie blood count or for wounds etc etc

I know you must feel rotten that Shrews teeth are still not sorted after being away from you all day, but the good thing is at least you can take comfort in the fact you have a caring vet, who's not prepared to take any risks. Let's face it she couldn't be any where better in the world than at home with mum to look after her. Roy x

The vets phoned - unfortunately Shrew's pre-op tests showed her kidney results were not good and putting her under a GA was too much of a risk. She is back home and we await urine results to see if anything can be done. Thanks for all your kind comments and texts about her - she is so precious to us x

Hi Roy. Regarding Hibiscrub! Having trawled dozens of websites, this is what i have learned. lt is a liquid soap which contains a chemical called Chlorhexidine.To be effective against bacteria & steralizing the wound, the soap must contain a minimum of 40% Chlorhexidine. In America, the FDA (Federal Drugs Agency) have consistently refused to grant a licence for this chemical to be used in skin products, for both human & animal use.This is because of the many side effects - both known - & the possible unreported ones. We have discussed it with our vets & explained that it appeared to cause burns & severe irritation to Nells wound. He agrees that some dogs do have an adverse reaction to it, as do some wounds, especially open wounds, & should be used with a degree of caution! He does recommend its use,as prescribed by your vet to the correct dilution..for at least the first 2 or 3 days...this is because it is excellent at steralizing the wound & destroying the initial bacteria that cause infection - especially if its a bite wound. However, its advisable to only bathe the wound with it at a time when you know you can monitor the dog & the wound closely for at least 2 to 3 hours after application.The things to watch for are your dog becoming irritated & distressed...trying to lick & scratch the wound & becoming restless.Check the wound frequently.Signs to look for are blistering...itching...soreness...redness...swelling & blood or puss weeping from wound.lf you see any signs of these, then rinse the wound thoroughly with cold water! Also, keep it well away from your dogs eyes..ears..nose..& mouth !!! Because of Nells reaction to the Hibiscrub, he has recommended bathing it in warm salt water (which we have been doing anyway)...but boil the water in a kettle 1st & allow to cool a little. Also, we have purchased a tube of 100% medical grade Manuka honey from vets...a thin smear of this on the wound after bathing & drying wound...will help the wound heal quicker & help to fight bacteria. Hope this is info is useful to you and others . Paul.

l totally agree with Missfifi & Tiggersmum. Always... ALWAYS...check that your vet is aware of your greyhounds special needs where anaesthetics & anaesthesia are concerned !! This also applies to lurchers..whippets...etc!!! There appears to still be vets who are unaware. I would also stress the need to have blood tests done prior to anaesthesia. We always insist on a full set of blood tests before anaesthesia & will, if necessary, take the dog to the vets a few days beforehand to give the vet time to get the results back & study them. Also, greys can suffer from hypothermia whilst under anaesthetic, so the vet should use a heated pad or warm platelet underneath the dog during surgery, & the dog needs to be kept warm during recovery. Also use a vet who will not try and rush you out during consultation...will take the time to answer all of your questions & concerns ...will explain proceedures fully, &, above all, will listen to your opinions & theories !!! Our vet will be the1st to admit that we know our dogs & their behaviour far better than he does! Just one last thing....try & find out if your vet has pets of their own....always a good sign!!! As you can see, we dont expect much! LOL.

I would to give a big thank you to muddy paws, for the Hibiscrub warning, we where sold some yesterday for Berti. The nurse did tell us about the dilution but never mentioned washing it off.
Roy

I so agree with muddy paws. My own experience with all my greys is that specialist referral vets are without exception fabulous and general vets are like gps. You have to work hard to find a good one! And the greys know who they are! I have initiated referrals and pressed my opinion when I have thought it necessary. And I have always asked questions regarding the problem and medication and alternative treatments. Three of my greys received the most fantastic treatment at the willows with exceptional care and empathy from all the staff there. When I lost Bouncer the vet who had treated him for his eye condition rang me the next day and we cried together on the phone!
I have recently moved to the seaside and have been doing my homework on the vets round here. The attitude on the phone speaks volume. And I popped in to one practise unexpectedly to say hello one lunchtime. A great response, a biscuit for daisy and now daisydog thinks it's another place to get a biscuit if she has to go there!

Hi I totally agree with getting very well prepared for a vet visit and if I see a vet I haven't seem before always ask if they know greys don't tolerate anasthetics well. My last grey was very timid and had to go into hospital so I took her in with a piece of her own vet bed and a worn jumper of mine, I took her into her kennel in the hospital where I left the vetbed and jumper and I would have left a TTouch wrap on her if it hadn't been her neck which was the problem. I'm really careful to only use vets that will listen to me being neurotic .. they may be more knowledgeable medically but I know my dog far better than them so between us we should have a good amount of info to help my dogs :) I have chosen a vet who offers 24 hour care cos my friends had to move their St Bernards from the emergency vets' surgery to their own vets surgery and back again morning and night after two had Bloat and I don't want to move my dogs mid-emergency care :( When my lurcher had radiotherapy I did a long list of questions so I wouldn't forget anything when we first saw the oncologist and that really helped :)
On another forum someone just had a dreadful time cos her grey was lame and she had a job insisting her vet x-rayed the grey and then referred her for chemo/amputation when ostesarcoma was diagnosed :( Someone made a really good point- think what you'd want if your dog was very ill so you can talk to the vet before that happens and if your vet doesn't believe in chemo etc you can decide whether to change vets before you're in the middle of a very stressful time and you'd then be working with a vet who - if in the best interest of the dog, can refer him or her on.
My big bugbear ... my last Grey always had a problem in her neck but it was controlled by regular chiropractic treatment ... after she had a GA the vet nurse probably didn't support her head and neck when she moved her off the teable but allowed Tigs head/neck to hang over her arm .. that meant there was no muscle control as Tig was 'out' and it further damaged two discs in Tig's neck and she ended up in The Willows for four days (£3000) and she needed lots of vet care, homeopathy, chiro to try to get her back to health so I always ask the vet to make sure they support the dogs head and neck (I fib and say mine have neck problems) but I always take them for chiropractic checks after a GA. Julie x

l think the main thing is when you find a vet that you are happy with & trust is to build a good relationship with them. Start as you mean to go on & let them know what standards that you expect & what concerns you have. After all, we pay a lot of money for their expertise.Our vets know how fussy we can be & and have said that they understand & respect us for the concern we have for our dogs.We have even been known to have a list of questions written down to ask them..... this may seem a little OTT.....but it's better than getting home & then remembering a load of things that you forgot to ask. We took Nell to the vets tonight to have her wound checked & booked with the vet that we prefer to see, however he was running late so we were called into see a vet who we did'nt know !!! We made it known that we wer'nt happy, but agreed to see him & told him....partly tongue in cheek....that he would be on probation with us until we were happy that he knew his stuff !!! LOL. As it turned out, he was a really nice guy who was very friendly & did give us some useful advise. When we came out, we checked him out with the nurses, and found out he was a really experienced & popular vet. So, on tonights experience, we would be happy to see him again. Although there are some vets at our group practice who we would'nt pay to see unless it was a dire emergency. l guess what i'm trying to say is that you have to find a vet(s) who you can feel comfortable with & trust & build a good relationship with them. That way its a lot less stressful knowing that your dog is seeing the best vet that you could possibly find.

Twiggy has to go to the vets on Friday for tests which involves her having to have a general anaesthetic; I too am very worried and the thought of having to leave her there on her own with people she doesn't know is horrible, but I know she needs to go and I am sure she will be well looked after by everyone at Fivelands...won't stop be from being a nervous wreck though! Sending Shrew a big hug for tomorrow. Xxx

Hi Ruth your right of course if you think of all the procedures taking place the risk is very low, and wouldn't won't to add to people's concerns, just me being over protective. Try not to worry to much for tomorrow, easier said than done I know. Roy

Hiya Roy - very valid point..... at Fivelands they give every dog on arrival a sedative injection which I think helps massively. Sadly, dogs, like humans are at risk of a GA - I remember working at City Hospital and sadly a young lad died having a routine tonsillectomy...... I am verging on hysterical this evening as Shrew our 12 year old grey is off for a dental tomorrow - I have tried neem bark, brushing regularly, petzlife spray etc and unfortunately she has got to the point where she needs surgical treatment. I also have Lady in having her spey and dental too. In over 2,000 dogs, so far (touching wood) I have sadly only lost Pumpkin, Annie and another precious called Pumpkin so I guess law of average is we are doing well! Keep your fingers crossed for tomorrow xxxx

Roy-- I think youve made some great points about the time the dogs have to spend getting stressed at the vets pre op. I'm sure more thought needs to be given to this subject, particularly by vets themselves.
The dogs welfare should always be the first consideration.

Please bear in mind the following is only an opinion, I have no medical or veterinary training.

It always sad to hear of one of our beloved greys passing, but for me it's more so when on the operating table on a what should have been a routine procedure. I have a theory to what may contribute to this situation.

Generalising, I know greys suffer from separation anxiety, they don't like change, we know they like to see what's going on around them, so don't like shut doors when in confined spaces, they are quite sub servant, so even in distressing situations they can appear quite calm, ( swan on the surface looking serene, but paddling like hell under the water) so to someone in a rush or not over familiar with the breed all appears ok.

We know greys are different from other dogs, for example they run differently.

In the Stratford upon Avon area the vets in my experience, ask you to bring your dog in at 9.00am, however the operation will probably not take place until late morning or early afternoon, between surgeries.

So for my dogs they would be in a cage and the ones I have seen are in a small room where the door are kept closed, probably to kept the heat in etc etc. they will be separated from us, in a strange environment, all the things they don't like.
Under those circumstances they would be very stressed out, Bertie doesn't even like ceramic tiled floors, it will be several hours before receiving anaesthetic.

We know in farm animals stress effects the quality of the product. We know that pigs can suffer from their hearts over heating from transportation. Therefore and I stress it's only my opinion our dogs may be in a weak and funerable state before being under anaesthetic.

So this is what I have done and in no way am I suggesting anyone follows suit.
When this situation as arose I have told the vet I wish to stay with my dog until the local as been administered, when he will go drowsy and will be fine to leave. Some vets have refused, they have come up with excuses such as health and safety, well I am paying the bill, so I won't it my way, may sound arrogant. But, the bring him in at 9.00 am thing, is in my opinion for their benefit, not mine or the dogs. So I found a vet who would play ball.

So the last time Bertie had to have an operation Clare the vet gave me an approximate time when she would be ready and we agreed a 10 minute warning.
Around the time, I took Bertie and waited in the car park, then clare rang we went in and with in minutes he was under.
If nothing else it kept my stress levels down.

To my knowledge there in no evidence in what I believe, I only post this for everyone to make their own judgements.

Roy

Hello Ruth

Is this £2.00 per week and based on the bonus ball?, as I would be interested in this.

Congratulations to David Anderson who won £74 on this weeks Daybreaks Lottery! It is just £2 a go - you can pay over the phone by credit card if you would like a go or just pop up to the kennels - you've got to be in it to win it!

I would like to say a MASSIVE THANK YOU to Tracey Haden for the amazing box of goodies that arrived at the kennels on Friday!!!!!! It was bursting full of great things to help with our fundraising - it was so exciting going through everything sent...... I am so grateful xxxxxxx

We are having the driveway re-surfaced at the kennels today so unfortunately there will be no access for cars. You can park for a short period at the Gables Hotel next door or in Old Damson Lane (you can do this by turning left at the traffic lights by the Holiday Inn and then first left by Parkway Kennels into Old Damson Lane). Any problems - please give me a call! 0121 782 7702. Thanks so much for your understanding. Ruth

I don't think I have ever seen such a variety of greyhounds in kennels as there are at the moment.They come in all sizes and lots of different colours,black/blue/fawn/brindle/black-white/blue-white.They all seem to be happy,friendly and nice tempered.So if you are considering re-homing one of these beautiful creatures now is the time to pop down to the kennels and take your pick from an amazing group of greys that are just waiting to make your family complete.What are you waiting for pop down today!

I hope Nell is feeling better soon x

Oh Nell this is terrible, I hope Nell is ok and recovers soon x

Thank you so much muddypaws for this information, hopefully now people will be able to question it's use and learn from your experience. However I hope Nell will be ok and sending Nell cuddles and love to you xx

Just a note of caution to anyone who is using a product from their vet called Hibiscrub. We had to take our grey to the vets on Sunday for a bite wound to her shoulder. The vet prescribed a small bottle of Hibiscrub to bathe the wound. We followed the instructions, which were to dilute 1 part Hibiscrub to 10 parts warm water & bathe the wound. However, Nell was in extreme discomfort all night. On removing the dressing this morning, the wound was much worse & was oozing puss & blood. Having investigated on the internet today, it appears this liquids original use was as a pre & post op scrub for vets & surgeons, & is an industrial strength disinfectant also used to clean hospital wards etc! However, it was discovered that is very effective at killing bacteria that infect wounds. According to the suppliers it is a severe irritant, which when used on the skin or to bathe wounds... it should be thoroughly rinsed of immediately with cold water as it can burn. We think this is what has happened to Nells wound !!! Because most vets buy it in gallon containers & then decant it into small plain bottles there are not any manufacturers directions for use. So be very cautious if using this product & make sure you rinse it off straight away !! If you are unsure check with your vet.... which we have done today & they were unaware what this liquid actually is, or the effects it can cause... they were under the impression that it was a bacterial liquid soap !!! Nell may now have to have surgery to remove the damaged tissue !!! So please be very careful & dont be afraid to question your vet & to do your own research !

Thanks Clare and Simon. We do have 5 dates planned for Sutton walks for 2014 but until we get 'official' confirmation cannot put them on the website. I chased again on Friday and am hoping for a response soon. Next 'hoped for' date is Sunday 23rd February, but as soon as I know will add the event properly. Thanks. Sam

Michelle, I know Sam was having problems with getting Birmingham City Council to confirm the booked dates. I am certain Sam will advertise them when she has the definite dates. I believe the first was sometime in February.

Hi Michelle, happy new year! There are potential dates in the pipeline for Sutton Park Walks. As soon as they are confirmed I'm certain Sam and Si will add them to the website. X

We went on the last Sutton walk and really enjoyed ourselves. Does anyone know when the. Next one will be ?

Hi folks, its a new year and the events are just getting started. If anyone has over indulged over the festive period there are walks at Stratford & Sutton, or if you just want to lend a hand at an event your help will be much appreciated, just by coming along to a roadshow and talking to folk about how wonderful life with a greyhound can be, just contact any of the organisers or if you have any ideas for new venues we can use or new ideas to raise funds and awareness please get in touch.

Thank you conman - it is true! It is a very hard job - stressful with having returnees, not enough homings, a constant growing waiting list etc etc.... then a fabulous month and it reminds me we can all only do what we can do. We found an amazing 215 homes in 2013 - not bad going but hope 2014 finds many more homes for our beautiful greys. Thank you everyone for your support in whatever way - it is really appreciated xxxx

Mmm now let me think...... a couple of weeks ago Mrs B was upset because November was a slow month for rehoming. But the past few weeks have been fantastic because people who wanted dogs decided to hold back until they had some time at home over Christmas and New Year to settle in the newcomers!! One day Ruth, you will realise what a great job you do for the dogs and how much you are loved and respected by both canines and humans. Love Padstow Jane and Joe, Badger, Nina, Jonty and Reuben xx

Golly that's so fabulous. Thank you muddypaws for doing the maths! So if every new owner tells lots of their chums how super greys are and if one of them adopts a grey see how quickly these perfect dogs will find new homes.......xx

That's great news.... lets hope 2014 is even better for such a worthy charity..... john/mary alias Patch... great barr...

Just had a count up!!! In the last 19 Days....Daybreaks have Rehomed 20 dogs, with a further 4 more being Reserved !!! Just how AMAZING is that!!!!!! :-) l would say that Ruth - Kate - All the Volunteers, both at Kennels & at Roadshows, Awareness Days, & Everyone who care for & promote these beautiful dogs - you all deserve a massive congratulations for the hard work that you do on behalf of these dogs. Not forgetting, of course all the kind people who take them into their hearts & their homes!!! At this rate the waiting list will be down to a manageable level !!! Well done everyone & lets keep the ball rolling right the way through 2014 !! We can all do our little bit - no matter how small. XXX

Lovely to see so many greys going to there forever homes, will have to visit soon to get my greyhound fix. Xmas wasn't the same without ellie may. Hopefully see you very soon.xx

Congratulations to Jonathon Beaumont-Pike who won the Green Feeder Competition featured in the Grapevine. Thank you to everyone who entered.

I have had a wonderful 4 days off to catch up with family and paperwork and boy have I missed the kennels! - can't wait to see all the 'kids' again! x I still have foster dog Jessie with me and I took her on a canal boat with Foxy and Wispa on Sunday and she loved looking at the sheep on the banks - she is taking everything in her stride, is much less stressed and erm dare I say it.... getting less stubborn! :-)

Meez...i fink i mite av pusht de big bukkon mor dan 1 time...oops !!!

Dear Aunty Wufe an Unky Wobby. Sowee, but Farver Cwistmas, he just dig'nt bwing uz menee Cwistmas pwezzies dis yer!!! Eksept a bootiful bwack Gweyhound cawld Pip - an youz aint not nit neva avin im bak for no waffle !!! Fink dat nawty Mr Wudolf...he did jus fly wite ova ourz chimerny pots !!! Fink it wuz cuz weze dig 'nt leve im is mincy pie...cuz weez...we did eatem em all !! But don!t be sad :( Aunty Wufe... cuz meez an Tezzy, weez will av a woot in ourz Goody boxes an cee if weez can find sum nice fings to help dem luverly doggies who liv wear de big gwown ups is alwaze stuffin therz nawty faces wiv nawty choccies an fings :) cuz weez duze luv all de big dogeez...evry likkle one ov dem !!!!!! luv an... an...big kisses an uvver fings XXXXXXX. Pawl an Tewwy..no.. Tewi...no...Tezzy... Dare - did duz get it wite in de end.

Dear Aunty Wufe an Unky Wobby. Sowee, but Farver Cwistmas, he just dig'nt bwing uz menee Cwistmas pwezzies dis yer!!! Eksept a bootiful bwack Gweyhound cawld Pip - an youz aint not nit neva avin im bak for no waffle !!! Fink dat nawty Mr Wudolf...he did jus fly wite ova ourz chimerny pots !!! Fink it wuz cuz weze dig 'nt leve im is mincy pie...cuz weez...we did eatem em all !! But don!t be sad :( Aunty Wufe... cuz meez an Tezzy, weez will av a woot in ourz Goody boxes an cee if weez can find sum nice fings to help dem luverly doggies who liv wear de big gwown ups is alwaze stuffin therz nawty faces wiv nawty choccies an fings :) cuz weez duze luv all de big dogeez...evry likkle one ov dem !!!!!! luv an... an...big kisses an uvver fings XXXXXXX. Pawl an Tewwy..no.. Tewi...no...Tezzy... Dare - did duz get it wite in de end.

Happy New Year Everyone!! We have just launched on twitter please follow us @PerryBarrRGT We want to raise awareness of all these wonderful greyhounds that need homes.

Ok everyone - I guess a few of you must have some unwanted Christmas gifts..... well guess what..... WE WANT THEM PLEASE! If you could drop off at Daybreaks, we would be really grateful x Also don't forget, we are still collecting shoes, bags, hats, belts, books and small electrical items which will help us raise money for our next new exciting project to help our Perry Barr Greys!

Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year for 2014. Thank you so much for all your support and here's to a successful and happy year ahead of us. It is wonderful to be surrounded by our Greyhound family of supporters xxxxxxx Love Ruth, Rob, Shrew, Basil, Foxy, Wispa, Maggie and Joe xxxxx

Number 49 was the bonus ball on the lottery and as no one chose the number it is a rollover on the Daybreaks weekly lottery! It is just £2 a square - if you would like to join in - give us a call.... you can pay by credit card over the phone or pop into the kennels - every little we raise via this helps the foster dogs at Daybreaks x

hi all patch here.. I have a new playmate.... bailey a border collie puppy 14 weeks old and I love him......john/mary great barr....

We have been running a weekly lottery at Daybreaks for nearly a year now. If you would like to have a go, please let me know. £2 a number - it works on the bonus ball and the winner (if we fill all the squares) gets £49 and £49 goes towards the foster costs for the greys at Daybreaks. You can pay by debit/credit card over the phone if you can't get to the kennels..... every little helps x

I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who came along to help at the kennels today. It really was a great atmosphere and the greys loved their Christmas dinner cooked by Tina. I even went out on a walk, the sun was shining, blue sky - couldn't have wished for more. Thank you to everyone who has brought presents for the residents at Daybreaks and more importantly for an ample supply of biscuits and chocolates for the volunteers! Merry Christmas everyone - two and four legged and hope you enjoy the rest of the day. The heaters are on, the hounds are fed and it is time to go home xxxxx

Hi auntie Ruth auntie Kate and all my family want to wish you a very happy christmas and a great 2014 us greys love you all very much and without auntie Ruth and her helpers we would not have gone to new homes and we are thinking of all the greys that are in kennels waiting to go to a new home we love you all four legs and none four legs have a great time Jackie tinker and family xxxx

Attention walkers.... Sutton & Stratford walk pictures are ready to view, go to gallery at the top of the page.

Lucy is a lovely girl...hope her owner will soon be feeling better. Xxx

Thank you for all the offers for Lucy - she has gone straight to a foster home - thank you Ann - I am very grateful x

Oh Ruth, what must poor Lucy be thinking? She must think the end of the world has come and what has she been done to deserve all this upset.
I wish we could help but I wouldn't class living with Amber as gentle and quiet!
I hope someone can help!

I have a 9 year old grey coming to Daybreaks today - her owner has been rushed into hospital and we need a foster home for her until her owner is better..... Her name is Lucy and sadly her greyhound friend was PTS only last week so her world will be a little upsidedown :-( If you think you could help please give me a call - 0121 782 7702. (She will come home with me but with a busy Boswell house if anyone is able to offer her a more settled environment I would be so grateful) x

Ruth and co as young Jess told me, it's not just nine dogs it's also the ones that follow into their kennel places. Also as a newby I have become to realise it's not just about the dogs, think of the friendships that have come about, the reason for some to get up in morning, the sense of purpose that I know Michelle and many others have found by helping. The therapy that owning a grey can bring. Thanks to Daybreaks, Michelle's mom as a new lease of life with Flossie.
Ruth and co you are all a wonder and may you continue for a long time.

A New Years resolution ( I know this happens any way) let's all try to find a dog a home and those 60 in waiting will soon be on a forever sofa.
Roy

I feel the same as all the other comments but I would like to thank Ruth and all her volunteers because with out you We never have found our Minnie I found this website and saw a dog roadshow at Stratford and went along and after speaking to Steve and Norman decided to visit just to look we walked out with a home visit that afternoon and Minnie came to live with us the next day we try to volunteer at some of the roadshows to give back as she gives us so much pleasure it shows what good work you do as we will be having ted and when Minnie and Ted are settled together we will hopefully attending more roadshows and of course I tell anyone who will listens what's great dogs they are you are all doing a wonderful job you change so many dogs lives xx

We have been volunteering at Daybreaks for the last six months and we are so amazed at the wonderful care and attention these beautiful hounds receive. We did trial and rehome lovely Mandy but sadly things didn't work out and Mandy we think was lonely and needed a doggy brother or sister. It was a blessing that we could bring her back and she has since found another home with a doggy brother. I think this is such a wonderful thing, that Daybreaks can find the right family for each dog be it the first time or second time around.
We both feel very proud to come and volunteer at such a wonderful place and sing the kennels praises to all and sundry. We see how passionate everyone is about these wonderful dogs and having a place like Daybreaks will guarantee a happy future for so many greys. xx

I think it is a reflection on how high expectations are now at Daybreaks that re-homing only nine dogs in a month is considered so disappointing. A few years ago when we were involved with Hall Green RGT, nine dogs in a month would have been considered a good month!! Still, we have to remember that it's nine dogs that have hopefully gone to loving forever homes and that things will improve in the new year.The fact that five were returnees is sad, but sooner they come back than stay in a home where things are not working out. So, lets all stay optomistic, and look forward to a better new year.Sometimes it's quality that counts and i think some of the recent new owners will get the bug & may decide that one greyhound is just never enough!!! So, chin up Ruth and lets all remember this little verse : RE-HOMING ONE GREYHOUND WILL NOT CHANGE THE WORLD......BUT THE WORLD WILL CHANGE FOR THAT ONE GREYHOUND. XXX

Ruth please don't get down you do just a great job with your helpers I agree with all the other comments we only came to look as Steve wanted an husky I said no I would look at these greys well Ruth Steve and myself have put the word about and guess what someone we know is very interested in adopting a grey we have passed all the details on to her and she is hoping to get to kennels this weekend every time we take tinker out we let people know we she has come from with great pride hope this helps a little love tinkers family xxxx

I go with the previous comments and Mand, Gent & Emily. I came across these lovely dogs some years ago via a trainer, having lost them went to Daybreaks and have just kept adding.
Ruth is great and so are these lovely dogs. Sylv xxx

Don't feel down Ruth, the homing figures are absolutely no reflection on the time and dedication that is put in by everyone at Daybreaks. Fatharry's right, Greyhound owners are the best way to encourage new owners. I asked myself how did I come by this beautiful breed, I was scared of dogs for goodness sakes. It was a roadshow in Mell Square and I distinctly remember speaking to Jill and Paul. After a few occasions of just fussing the dogs (call it free therapy for me), we started to get more serious about homing a Grey. It took us 12 months to get to the point where we were ready to find our first 'baby', but we've never looked back. So, I'm happy to help at a roadshow whenever I can, I feel like I'm giving something back. Honestly, if you've never helped at one, please give it a go. You don't have to be there all day, I'm sure most roadshow organisers would be happy if you could just spare a couple of hours. Even on the coldest days, it's such good fun and let's face it, who doesn't love it when someone comes up to you and tells you how lovely your Grey is, well, it would be rude not to gush and tell them how fabulous they really are. We had someone come to the house the other day to give us a quote on some building work. He told me Gent and Emily were the most well behaved dogs he'd come across, so he got the full 'roadshow' treatment too. He may not be looking for a dog, but he just needs to mention our conversation to one person who is and ....well, you never know. Of course, he might just have been trying to sweeten me up to get my business, but if you tell me my babies are gorgeous, you're gonna get the works, you never know what your words may achieve. Mand x

Ruth you and all the daybreaks team do a FANTASTIC job! Greyhound owners are I believe potentially the best way to find and encourage new owners. Its easy for people who have greys to think, im doing my bit,but could we do more to help rehome others? Hands up if you have got a poster of the dogs up for adoption at work,printable off this website,being honest I haven't, and I work in a busy supermarket! I will do this today and put my name on the bottom as a contact in store. Who drives a car and hasn't got a daybreaks sticker on the window? that'll be me again! I'll pick one up next time I'm at daybreaks.Can anybody get us a feature in a paper or magazine?if so let Ruth know.If we all do what we can it will make a difference and there's no better feeling than knowing you've helped rehome a grey!

Oh Ruth,it breaks my heart to read this, you all do such GREAT work there and everyone knows it. I think it is such a shame when you have returnees often through no fault of their own, it seems common nowdays for other dog homing centres too and in general animal ownership. I know many people at my workplace who really like greyhounds and have a good awareness of how gentle they are and make great pets but sadly are not in a position to adopt a dog, I keep tyring to tempt them believe me.

I certainly believe that we all can play a part in spreading the word and New Year is always a good time for people who want to start to keep fit taking on a greyhound to keep company whilst out walking.

Best Wishes to you all at Daybreaks for Christmas and the New Year.

or two! x

Ruth, it is so nice to read the good comments others have made and hope these makes you feel uplifted. You are doing such wonderful work and everyone want to support you. Another thought - once the New Year arrives many people are ready to make a new start. New ideas, new commitments and, perhaps a 'new' greyhound. x

Ruth, to have good months we also have to have not so good months. The job you and all the volunteers who help rehome these wonderful dogs is second to none. We have a wonderful web site to promote the trust, we have brilliant people who do roadshows/fundraising/ walks to show off the hounds. A thought, to help with the great work Ruth & everyone does, if anyone has an idea or new venue for awareness or wants to help with roadshows or events please get in touch with any of the roadshow organisers or the kennels. Si x x

Please don't be downhearted auntie Ruth. You and everyone involved do such a fantastic job at Daybreaks. Sending hugs and hopes for special new people to find their way to you and the beautiful greys as quick as quick can be. X

Since opening Daybreaks in July 2006, sadly last month was the worst homing figures ever. We only saw 9 go to new homes and of those 5 were returnees so realistically we have only homed 4 from our waiting list. It is a constant struggle knowing that we have 9 greys in foster at the moment and the ever growing waiting list of over 60 waiting for places at Daybreaks..... I really hope homing picks up soon for our lovely greys.

It is so sad when a Greyhound is returned.....it was brilliant to see some of the returnees going out to lovely foster homes this afternoon. Xxx

Today was my first day back after a break and my heart broke seeing Cassie and Ellie, the two girls returned at the weekend. They were shaking and clearly distressed to be at the kennels. Ellie was offered a foster home late this afternoon so I have therefore brought Cassie home with me. It took her a little while to settle but she has crashed out on the floor in the lounge and is finally asleep.

It has been an emotional day - but great - my friend Joe has fostered Reuben, a gorgeous boy who has also been struggling being back in kennel life. Thanks also go to Maddy for fostering Pip for the next few weeks. This little lad really needs to find a home to call his own now.

It is hard seeing returnees but we hope through us and our support they can find another home where they will be loved to the end of their days.

We have an ever growing list of over 60 greys waiting to come into Daybreaks - some have been waiting since April for a place. We know a dog is not just for Christmas, but we really hope a few will find their forever sofa very soon.

What a busy day at the kennels today! It was fantastic to see Barney go off to his new home ...we had a few problems getting him to stay in the back of his new owners van, he wanted to sit up front with him! Brilliant too to see beautiful little Belle go home with her new friend Louis. So happy for Ted and Ginny both reserved! Catalina the vet, would like me to pass on her apologies to those hoping to see her today. unfortunately she was left stranded at Northampton train station after the trains were cancelled due to an accident on the track. She will be at the kennels tomorrow afternoon instead.

Hello Goldi&ruby'smum, I am not at the kennels today but will be in tomorrow. Goldie and Ruby Roo I can trim your nails...while your Mum chooses another friend for you but dont tell your Dad!! Kate & Twiggy Xxx

Goody Mornins Arnti Kate da luberlee muvva ob Twiggy,
Goldie n Ruby Roo heers *nods* now wes runnin low on fud so needs toz visit, dodjy cuz dat meens Muvva wil cuddul ORL fa howndys n gets sad cuz DAD sed NO MORS!!
Henyways sadlee Muvva sez we needs awr nayuls cuttins toz *shivvaz* soz duz you cuts nayuls Arnti Kate, myvva ob Twiggy??

Lub n kissez toz EBARYBODY
Gold n Ruby Roo
Mwah mwah xxx

Hi Aries, the vet will be there Saturday afternoon. If you give the kennels a call Kate can let you know what times are available.

Here Here I agree with you Lady Victoria, having said that Bertie has got no teeh and Blades are better than mine !!! :)

Pip, Reuben and Ted are all returnees....I think we should all make a New Years Resolution to take more care of our lovely Greyhounds teeth! It only takes a few minutes brushing a day to help keep them clean. Xxx

Can you tell me when the vet will be there next as Dolly is due a booster, thanks

I hope I have helped a bit by ordering items via Easy Fundraising, I have only recently signed up to this but these donations I hope will help.

I have had the vet check Pip, Reuben and Ted today and unfortunately they all need dental work. I am going to book them in for next week. This is such a nightmare as the vet bill for this will be costly and we had just had the vet invoice for Bambi's medications who we are supporting for life due to her pancreatic problems which is over £200. I know it is a tight time of year financially but if you are able to help us, please click on any dog and there is a donation button - we are desperately grateful for your support.

I hope you are feeling better soon Ruth. Sending hugs. X

Poor Ruth is not feeling too good at the moment so she is not at the kennels. If you need help with anything please call me on the kennels number 0121 782 7702 and I will do my best to help. Many thanks Kate Xxx

What a busy weekend that was! Bobby (aka Pumpkin), Lara and Jack were all signed up, as was Grace who was homed direct from a syndicate. Breeze has gone out on trial and Flicka has gone out to foster directly from the Sutton Walk. We had a viewing for Joey and we are keeping our fingers crossed he may be going out on trial soon and Barney was reserved - YAY! Ade is doing well so his paperwork is being completed and Belle has gone to a foster home.

We sadly have a couple of returnees due in but due to our busy weekend we have room for them without going over our allowed amount at the kennels. Sadly we still have over 60 greys waiting for places on our waiting list. If you think you could find room in your home for one of our greys, please contact me - especially those who have been recently returned as they are used to their home comforts :-(

The Christmas tree has gone up today and looks lovely and I have the offers of a few helpers on Christmas day and Christmas dinner for all the inmates!

The blood bank are visiting Daybreaks today and unfortunately they have had a few cancellations. If you could pop along with your grey, please contact Kate at the kennels asap - 0121 782 7702. Your grey giving blood will help to save lives.....

Unfortunately my Trust mobile has died!!!! It is refusing to charge so therefore I am unable to retrieve any texts or have any calls to the 07760617287 number. You can still contact the Trust on the land line on 0121 782 7702 but these calls are diverted currently to the mobile that Kate has so we still have 24 hour phone line cover. Therefore apologies if you have tried to contact me using the mobile number - I will be contacting BT this morning to get it fixed/replaced!!

Auntie Ruth please don't fret. I was never keen on September so I will have March twice so daisydogs picture gets two outings! Xx

My earlier comment was - of course - referring to the new edition of Grapevine magazine!! Dont know where some of your minds were going with it ! Pumpkin is of to Fivelands tomorrow for his 2nd vitamin B12 injection & weight check. He is crashed out on his bed at the moment after his walk.Will keep you all updated on his progress.Good luck to Rio in his new home - luv the new name.X.

Not that its like me to get involved Ruth, but at this rate you'll be known as Calender Girl! x

Dear Auntie Ruth. Now you have started giving out clues - does this mean i'm too late to enter the Spot The Deliberate Mistake Competition - cuz i think i got the right answer !!! ls it September ? Cant wait to find out if i have won !!! Seriously though - i'm sure nobody who has already bought a calendar is bothered - after all - we all get to live the first & last Sundays twice ! two groundhog days in the same month ! That really is great value for money!! Dont know how you keep thinking up these fundraising competitions. P.S. Can you send my prize under cover of a plain brown envelope ??? Thanking you in anticipation. luv Paul. XXX

No probs, will just change date, only got it for the grey pics anyway!!!
Has anyone got advice for stress over the fireworks??? Have read advice page. Pippa just pants and drools so excessively for hours once she has heard first firework. I got s plug in thing and spray, to no avail. She was fine last year, that's what is so strange. Its so stressful to watch her, can't be any good for her panting so hard for that long! Help!!!

Not everyone will have a special unique calendar!
I wouldn't have thought it would be a problem at all....it's the pics that are the important thing!
Stop worrying Mrs B! (((xXx)))

Yes I agree with Lady Victoria about the calender, I never know what day of the week it is anyway !! ha ha x

What a shame after everyone's hard work on the calendar. I really don't mind...I will just change the days when September comes around, it is still a great calendar and I bought it mainly for the photos of the lovely Greyhounds. Xxx

I am absolutely gutted but a major error has been found in the calendars printed - September 2014 is wrong!!!!! I will be contacting the printers on Monday and urge everyone who has bought one to contact me as soon as possible. Those who have bought one - I will either arrange for a refund or a replacement - if you could let me know. I am so upset

I am at home today finishing off the Grapevine. If you have anything you would like to be included, please email me at ruth.boswell@rgtperrybarr.co.uk

If anyone is free for a walk this morning, we have lots of lovely Greyhounds who would be very happy to see you! xxx

Great to hear Patch is a very happy boy! Xxx

hi Patch here I have been here for 18 months now and life is great with John/Mary and old boy Ben.... Lots of walks and playtime.. I love moving my bed around the lounge and playing with Ben..... Love Patch xxx (Three Patch High) Irish racer....

We have a vet on site today from 1pm who can do vaccinations, acupuncture and on hand for any advice etc. If you would like to book to see her please give the kennels a call. 0121 782 7702

We have a 'full house' here today at Daybreaks so if you fancy taking one or two for a walk - we would LOVE to see you. Unfortunately, as I am out walking, the kennels will be closed for visitors inbetween walks!

Hi Tom, we have the Greyhound Christmas cards, the funny and serious, for sale at the kennels. Xxx

I've been on a training course all week as part of my role as fundraising manager for another charity and just wanted to share something. Despite working for a great cause, I have spent some much time talking about how inspired I was by the work the trust does, but also the amazing work which is done by volunteers in so many ways to support this fantastic cause and to find these fab dogs forever homes. What a brilliant cause to be part of. Missing the hound while in London and contemplating organising a quiz in the new year. Anyone fancy it?

Tom, I think the kennels sell Christmas cards or if you can't get there most of the roadshows will have some for sale. I know there'll be some for sale at Erdington on the 16th Nov and at Sutton walk on the 1st Dec hope this helps Dreams x

Does anyone know where I can buy a pack of greyhound Christmas cards(funny or serious)? I have £5 pocket money and I need about 12 cards for friends/family. Tom x

Well, it has been my first day back after a break of five days and it feels like I haven't been away! The phone has not stopped but it has been fabulous to be back and see the new arrivals. Thank you to Kate and Angie who covered and all the volunteers who helped out too.

Brett went in for another dental today and came back to the kennels late this afternoon. He is such a gentle boy.

Tomorrow we say au revoir to the 3 French students that have been helping over the last 4 weeks gaining experience for their lives in animal care in France.... it has been great fun having them.

We saw Wilf and Judy off to their new homes too.

On the way home I went to visit Rosie (Josie) and she is settling in really well - although not too impressed I went with nail clippers!

If you haven't bought your tickets for the McTiminey Talk on Friday - please do - I am really looking forward to it so I can help the dogs at Daybreaks and my own greyhounds a little more than I do already. If you would like a ticket - please give me a call - 0121 782 7702.

Breeze was dropped off at our house this evening by her very sad owners who can't keep her any more due to her seperation anxiety and I hope we can find her a home very soon with the company of another grey (or two!) as she is very settled here.... a new photo to follow soon so watch this space.... Ruth x

Can anyone spare a few hours ANY day over the next few weeks to go along to Pets at Home in Sheldon. They have chosen Perry Barr Retired Greyhound Trust as their nominated charity for the month and are hoping we can go along to promote the Trust. If you can, please give me a call for details - 0121 782 7702

How is Ellie-May? x

I do hope Ellie-May will be ok....Xxx

You have had a busy day.
I hope Ellie-may is OK she is a very very special grey .

Another very busy day - this morning started off with a call at 8am from Ellie-May's owner as she had had a seizure. She was not impressed with the stretcher but we got her to Fivelands where she has been on a drip and we are waiting for news.... A massive thank you to Bob, Sarah and Jess for opening up and looking after the French students who are on week two of their work experience.

A second viewing for the beautiful Kitty has secured her a home and she has gone out on trial so keep your fingers crossed. A viewing for Mandy is booked for Saturday and we have 2 viewings tomorrow so we continue to be busy which is great as our waiting list is many months long :-(

I spent time with new arrival Max and he loves to lean and enjoyed being groomed but sadly failed his cat test. We have 3 new arrivals tomorrow - I can't wait to meet them :-)

This weekend has flown by - we had week 9 of the acupuncture study at Daybreaks and lots of people are feeling sad that next week is the last one. Don't despair though - we plan to continue being able to offer acupuncture so watch this space!
This afternoon Tina covered the kennels whilst I was in Henley helping on another acupuncture course - new arrival Max was welcomed to Daybreaks and Rocky was reserved. We have a few viewings already booked for next week so fingers crossed it will soon be time for Ade to find his forever home.

Hi auntie Ruth uncle bob thankyou so much for letting me stay with you both and your greys I had a great time but I am sorry I chewed all the leads up my daddy is cross with me but I wouldn't have done it if he hadn't left me but I think on the whole I tried to be a good girl but I liked your bed auntie Ruth I'm a bit sad tonight I'm missing all my new friends at your house it's a bit lonely being the only one but I will be back to normal in a day or to my nanna said she is going to phone you tomorrow and say thankyou I will miss you and uncle bob love you tinker xxxx

Whoooah! What a day - two new beautiful arrivals - Kitty and Jack. We saw Georgie Girl, Mandy, Molly (now Nell) and Poppy all signed up too. Cheeky at long last has been reserved and Ellie has gone out on trial - fingers crossed all goes well. Think it is time to go home now - a glass of wine has been earnt!

Saw the calendars yesterday, they are gorgeous photo's once again, a great Christmas present idea!!

Have seen greyhounds tested with cats before....but not a tortoise! Well done to gorgeous Storm. Xxx

What a very busy busy day! Bill has been reserved and gone out on trial, Twinkle was officially signed up along with Nina (and Nina benefited from a session of acupuncture during her visit too!) Cody was also reserved along with Georgie Girl - thank you to Caroline for bringing her along to the kennels.

Evie's mum came up today with her family (including the tortoise!) and Storm was the lucky girl to fill that huge hole that Evie left.

My grateful thanks go to Simon and his family who went along to Pets at Home in Sheldon for an awareness event too.

I have been monitoring Mandy all day on the cameras at home who is recovering following her stitch up yesterday and she has been really settled :-) Looking forward to tomorrow as we have new arrivals to fill the empty kennels!

Can't wait to see the new calendar! Xxx

Yay! I picked up some of the new calendars today - they have gone off for sale at the Greyhound Gathering tomorrow and hope they sell well - they are fabulous (erm.... guess it is because there is such a handsome fella on the front!!!)

So sorry to hear about Evie....God bless her. Xxx

Yesterday afternoon was a very sad afternoon when I was with a very special little friend called Evie (Monkspath Evie). Sadly she had become very ill in a short space of time and Jackie and I held her in our arms and let her slip gently away.

We are all going to miss this little girl so much - we have been a big part of her life since she was homed in April 2007. I know you are running free chasing those bunnies and cats Evie Monster! You were a very special precious girl and my heart is broken xxxx Auntie Ruth & Uncle Rob xxxxx

Big hugs and much love to Jackie - a very close friend and Evie's momma xxxx

Fantastic! Thanks Simon :-)

Hi Ruth
Jay, Amber and I can help out on Saturday 21st if you still need help.

HELP! Can you spare a few hours on Saturday 21st September at Pets at Home, Sheldon between 12 - 4pm.
If you think could help, please give Ruth a call on 0121 782 7702. Thanks so much.

What a great day.... been finalising the calendar for next year and it looks brilliant! Saw Den and Carla off to their new homes, Sparky was reserved and Snowy has gone off with Martin for an overnight stay prior to going on trial to her new home tomorrow - keep your fingers crossed all goes well for her... we will keep you posted!

It's so nice to have Ruth back today! Everyone has been brilliant, thanks so much for all your help. Xxx

I am back at the kennels today after a week away - such a lot has happened in one week! Looking forward to getting back to it and want to thank everyone who has assisted Kate this week especially Sara, Sarah, Angie and Denise in particular x

Another busy day...wonderful to see Jack, Queenie and Izzy go off to their new homes and Bambi out on trial. Thanks so very much to everyone who helped out at the kennels today. Xxx

What a great day! Libby who has been out on trial was signed up and Cello went off to her new home. Jack was also reserved at long last :-)

It's a rollover again on the Daybreaks Lottery! - if we fill the board this week, the winnings for next week will be £105. If you would like a go it is just £2 a square and this helps generate precious funds towards the improvements at Daybreaks.

Wooahhh what a day! Ray and Bonnie have been homed, Coco has been reserved, Izzy has gone on trial and Juno and Twinkle have gone out to foster as well as Sparky back to his foster mum and dad..... Fantastic! We also had a visit from Gina who brought a gift of some cheese from the dairy she lives at in Dorset :-) guess what is for tea!

What a good day! Xxx

Wilma and Duggie were both reserved today - I am so pleased for Duggie as it has been long awaited. We have a busy day ahead of us tomorrow as it is our third week of the acupuncture study and we have three viewings as well :-)

What a day yesterday! Lovely Bonnie was reserved and Cheeky went off to a foster home - YAY! I have had the offer of foster homes for Jack and Mandy from Sunday (so I am keeping my fingers crossed). Sadly Wilma was unreserved but I already have a viewing for her at the weekend :-)

We have aproblem with a couple of pages on the website at the moment, Our Dogs and the Care Pages. Hopefully it will be up and running as soon as possible.

I am very slow at sending text messages....especially on the trust's fancy mobile! But always happy to take a call and help if I can. Kate Xxx

What a great day! Meg has been signed up and little Angel (now called Lucy) has come back from foster for a week but is now reserved!

I apologise for the delay in getting back to those who have texted or left messages as the phone has been non stop! It is always difficult to text back because as I start to type a reply, the phone goes! The touch screen on the phone is a tricky one as well so it takes me a while to reply too.... so if possible - please call :-) xxxxx

I have had such a busy busy weekend at the kennels! Yesterday we saw Rosie reserved and we had the second session of the acupuncture study we are helping Nottingham Veterinary School with. Tilly who was homed on Friday came back to visit and take part with the study and it was good to hear she is being good in her new home with the cat!

Today we saw Blade homed, Mandy go out to foster and Wilma reserved.

Riley came to visit also who has been very poorly with e-coli so it was lovely to see him again.

A massive thank you to all those who came to volunteer over the weekend - I couldn't do it without you all! x

Hi Jenni. Lola is a Pets As Therapy dog and I visit a local care home and about to also start visiting a day centre from tomorrow. I'm in Acocks Green. You could try giving Pets As Therapy a call also. Various contact details on their website. Ruth has my number if you want to speak. Linda x

Hi all,
Very much missing kennels at the moment as it feels like ages since I have been down - but a new job and summer holidays seem to be conspiring against me!) Kate I hope the new job is going well and a big hello to the team down there. I hope to come soon! In the meantime does anyone have contacts with Pets as Therapy dogs - I'm working for a charity in Wolverhampton and it would be great to find out what we have locally.
Thanks
Jenni

If anyone has some spare time today we have lots of lovely greyhounds who would love to go for a walk! Thank you xx

What a very busy day! We had Catalina and Rosa conducting research for Nottingham Veterinary School on the greys today - around 20 greys were fitted with tracking devices and then underwent acupuncture. This study is continuing every Saturday for the next 10 weeks and we will keep you posted with how the dogs get on. If you would like to be involved with this, please give me a call (Ruth 0121 782 7702). Foxy, one of my greys had treatment and the acupuncture needles actually were bent by his muscles - it is so interesting!!!!

We saw Mandy reserved, Max out on trial and Ray go off to his foster home with a Jack Russell too - I am sure his foster family will be sending photos and updates very soon. A great day :-)

Hi Everyone,
My husband Jim is running his first ever half marathon in Birmingham on 20th October. He is doing it to raise funds for the greyhounds at Daybreaks. If you would like to sponser him I've pasted the link below. Thank you.
www.justgiving.com/Jim-Ware

I still have an unclaimed purse that was left at our last open day before our 7th Birthday..... if you have lost a purse with an 'owl' on it - please let me know. If it is not claimed, the contents will be added to the donation pot! x

URGENT APPEAL - We have over 60 greys on a waiting list waiting to come to Daybreaks Kennels :-( Homing is slower at the moment due to exams and holidays (as usual this time of year).

We are therefore desperate for foster homes or permanent homes to help bring the waiting list down. I have awful pressure on me constantly to try and reduce the waiting list but this is something I have no control over. As I was also asked to take in 2 greyhounds at the weekend (one an RSPCA cruelty case and another a stray) I am taking Trust dogs home to make more room to help (as I am only allowed 16 dogs at the kennels).

If you can possibly help by offering a home - be it permanent or foster, please contact me asap - 0121 782 7702. I pay for all the foster costs from the charity I set up - Daybreaks Trust so this does not impact on the Perry Barr RGT funds.

What a busy day - two new arrivals, one returnee, two homings and two viewings.... I am missing Tulip desperately but I am over the moon she has found a home xxxxxx

I have been asked if anyone lives near to Evesham who may be passing the kennels to help get a bag of food to an owner who is having difficulty getting over to fetch a bag. If you are able to help, please give the kennels a call - 0121 782 7702. Thanks so much.

We also had the pleasure of meeting the lovely Kate, While I know that Ruth as lots of volunteer help that you all should get a big pat on the back for, I think Kate is just what she needs, don't won't her ill again !

Mind you with all those young blokes about when I called this morning I am sure Kate and Ruth had their hands full.

Michelle Roy and Bertie

We had the pleasure of Jonti and Bramble for the day while the kennels were painted. Bertie welcomed them into his home and I believe that this may have been their first time in a house. I have to say what well behaved a pair you could ever wish to meet.
They was relaxed and travelled well in the back of the car with Bertie and no little accidents. They had a tour of the garden on their leads and shown where they could rest in the house.

For the rest of the day apart from a walk up the track, they found shade in the garden and wondered in and out of the house, at will.

I see Bramble as been reserved, well done, she will bring lots of happiness to her new mom and dad, she demonstrated some recall, she knows her own mind, but I know she will easily fit into a home. A very loving little girl, Michelle was even rewarded with a couple of licks.

Jonti, a handsome fit boy, again some recall, well mannered, alert and considering the new environment he found himself extremely well behaved, walked well on the lead and a perfect house guest for the day. I am sure this boy will bring a lot of pleasure to any home.

Roy

Thanks so much to everyone who took a dog...or two out for the day today while the kennels were being painted. They all had a lovely time!. Xxx

Sorry, I misread it somehow, though it was Saturday the kennels were being painted!!!!!! Hope the dogs are ok x

If anyone has a cordless telephone they don't need anymore - please let me know :-) Ruth 0121 782 7702

Will have a chat with the hubby about this later, one of mine is a bit of a stress head though and is also suffering a lot in this hot weather, a bit unsure about getting her over-excited with another dog about. We will help if we can though xx

The keep cool coats are back in stock! The Met Office have issued a warning about the extreme heat so please please keep your dogs as cool as possible.

We are having the kennels repainted tomorrow by the fantastic guys from Land Rover as part of their community project work. Therefore if anyone is able to take a dog out for the day (bearing in mind it will be very hot again and will be best in the coolest possible place) please please give me a call. Bonnie is the only lucky girl so far so if you can spare even half a day it will help them not being amongst the paint fumes etc. I will be answering the phone until 10pm tonight so please give me a call and I will be at the kennels from 8am tomorrow. Thanks so much x

We ordered the Easidri keep cool coats which arrived on Friday and already we have sold out already!!! I will let you know when our next delivery will be!

We are excited to announce that from Saturday 3rd August we will be taking part in a study in conjuction with Nottingham Veterinary School and YourVets on accupuncture improving the quality of life for your dog.

If you would like to enrol your dog for the study please contact Ruth on 0121 782 7702. There are limited spaces available and owners need to be able to commit to a weekly treatment over 10 weeks allowing an hour and a half. Unfortunately we cannot accept dogs that are receiving Tramadol tablets or Codeine.

Dogs involved in the study will be given an opportunity to move around freely (in an our enclosed area at the back of the kennels) wearing a GPS collar to track their movement prior to receiving accupuncture treatment for any injuries or ailments.

All treatments are free, donations are welcome.

Daisydog is sooooooooooo excited about being a winner in the Calendar Competition. Reading that my gorgeous girl is going to be in it is just so lovely. Fabulous. xx

I would like to thank everyone who bought a ticket for the Daybreaks Calendar Competition. The winners were:
1.Lindsey with Lennie
2.J Abbey
3. Donna with Queenie
4. Lucy Stubbs
5. Lawrence Smith
6. Jo Guise
7. Julia Goolia
8. Andy (with Gladys)
9. Aaron Bradbury
10. Mike Walsh
11.Holly Lawton
12. Kate for Mannie
We will be in touch very soon with the photoshoot dates so the calendar can be ready for the dog show.

Fantastic news Kate - you are the perfect person, with such a lovely telephone manner too! See you soon x

On the 15th July 2006, I walked into Daybreaks for the very first time and reserved our beautiful Twiggy. Seven years later, also on the 15th July I am absolutely thrilled to be given the opportunity of working at the kennels. Helping to take care of these lovely dogs while they are waiting for their forever homes is a dream come true. I know I have a lot to learn but with the help of such fantastic teachers in Ruth, Sara and Jill and the wealth of knowledge of the many brilliant volunteers, I hope I will be an asset to Daybreaks. Thank you all so much for your messages of congratulations. Kate xxxx

Well done Kate brilliant news for you and hopefully Ruth can now have a more realistic work schedule and have some well deserved time off!

Just this minute been looking on internet for the cool coats. Misty doesn't seem too troubled by the heat but Larry definitely suffers. I keep putting a damp tea towel over his neck but he soon shakes it off. He appreciates the fan though and has learned to wait for his evening walk till it's a bit cooler. Will get him a cool coat (hope you have XL) when we visit on Sunday.

Nice news Kate. Woof from Larry and Misty x

Congratulations Kate, I may see you Sunday if you are there!!!

Well done lady vic,I will ring up and pester you every day!Its about time we had some class at the kennels! congratulations you deserve it x

Congratulations Kate, absolutely delighted for you. Look forward to working with you. XxX

Congratulations Kate!

YAY! We now have the Easidri keep cool coats in stock at the kennels. They are £42.50 and have been great in keeping the kennel dogs cool on their walks in the hot weather. (Internet price of these coats is £44 plus £3 post and packing so you can make a saving of £4.50).

Congratulations Kate, you will be an asset to the Daybreaks management team!

Well done Kate. That's great news I'm so pleased for you! Clare x

Congratulations to you Kate - hope to see you soon at the kennels. Mand, Gent & Emily xx

Congratulations to Kate!
Love from Linda, Paul, Lola & Lena xx

Congratulations Kate, I know you will enjoy your new position. Love to you and Twiggy.
Sylv, John & The New Icemaid Clan xxxx

Following interviews on Sunday, I am pleased to announce that Kate Smiles is the new Assistant Manager at Daybreaks from Monday 15th July. She will be assisting me in my work for 4 days a week and covering all my duties when I am not at the kennels. Most of you will know Kate (she is LadyVictoria for her login). I hope you will all support her in her new role. Ruth x

We have a very full house here at Daybreaks as we had to have 4 extras in yesterday - if you are up for taking a few for a short walks - please pop in :-)

We have had a request for a pet greyhound to visit a little disabled girl in the Great Barr area. She and her family are really keen for her to have some contact with a dog before they consider one as a family pet. If you could help with this, please give me a call. Ruth 0121 782 7702

On behalf of my lovely Twiggy I would like to say a huge thank you to Ruth, Rob and Bob for making Daybreaks possible. She was one of the very lucky Greyhounds to have found a home because of you. Xxx

Hi Ruth congratulions to you and your team 7 years wish we had found you long before we did you are one amazing lady and we all love we love you for the good work you do and for our lovely greys which we would not have if you had not had daybreak here's to the next 7 years and another 1,700 homes for more lovely greys thankyou you are our special angel sent to help all greys Jackie xxx bless you x

Seven years ago today I opened the doors of Daybreaks. It is one of the most wonderful things I have done in my life. The seven years have bought some serious low moments but ultimately some amazing highs as we have helped to find over 1,700 homes for some beautiful greyhounds - many of which have touched my life forever. Thank you to Robbie and Bob Shannon - both of which made it possible to start this dream and the support of so many wonderful friends and supporters. Ruth x

Towel tip No 2. After brushing your grey, buff their coat with a dry towel. Rub gently in direction of fur. This will remove surface dirt & leave a high gloss shine!

Thanks Deb and Jill for offering but Norman has kindly offered to collect for me. Now my next appeal....... does anyone have some garden chairs they could pop up for the open day as I only have 20 but I think we will need a few more! If you are able to, please give me a yell! x

give me a buzz and I will collect the stuff could do it tomorrow DEB

I have had the offer of some more raffle prizes for our open day on Sunday but we need to collect. Is there anyone in the West Heath area that could do this for me? If you can, please let me know. Many thanks, Ruth 0121 782 7702

I have had an email from someone who found a camera at Waseley Hills. There are pictures of a greyhound on it. If you think it is yours - please let me know!

Sorry Ruth, we were at Sutton with Simon and Sam huddled under a dripping gazebo for some of the time - didn't see this until tonight.......

If anyone fancies a lovely walk with a grey today - please come along..... due to the weather yesterday they only had one walk and we are very low on volunteers today. We have one homing, a new arrival and a returnee so we are going to be busy. It is really appreciated if you can make it.

Lots of people have asked where we get the dog beds on legs from that we have in the runs and a couple of the kennels.

I bought them back in 2011 and they are still going strong - the dogs absolutely love them! They are easy to keep clean as they are totally wipeable. We just put a blanket on and they are very comfy for them!
Here is the link: http://www.kurandadogbeds.co.uk/ (We have the large and extra large)

We are adding a link to their website and you can also join their 'donate-a-bed' programme :-)

With it being Father's Day today and the Stratford Walk - we are going to be low on volunteers at the kennels today. If you can spare a little time to take a hound for a walk it would be really appreciated. xxxx Also if you have any unwanted gifts or bottles of wine we could use for our open day on the 30th June I would really appreciate it. Ruth x

I have heard the bikes sometimes when we are in the gardens. Fortunately not come face to face with any. xxx

Hi Lady V. I picked some cubes up this morning along the middle of Old Croft Lane and where that ends onto chester/bradford road but they stopped well before the green. I didnt see any this evening. Its happened before but not so many. The only stuff Ive found so far by CB Hall is what people have leftby the benches so you should be ok with Twiggy. Watch out for the morons on the quads and the scramblers though. They like to drive at dogs xx

Hi Jak's Mom, I do occasionally walk in the Castle Bromwich area so many thanks for the warning. xxx

I know I shouldn't be logging in as I don't have email but this is important and could concern anyone who exercises their dog in or around the Castle Bromwich area. Someone may be deliberatly dropping chocolate squares in an some of the areas where dogs like to sniff and wee particually along the chester road by The Green. There has been some issues there regarding dog fouling. Please be extra vigilant and if you have a greedy chops dog it may be an idea to muzzle for the time being. Its not off the small bars. Its cubes broken off big bars which is why i think its deliberate and not dropped by kids. Plus kids will usually pick it up again if their parents dont notice.

What a fabulous very busy day we have had at the kennels. Sally, Edith and Lena were signed up, Sparky was reserved and Rooney and Ricky have gone out on trial. We have another busy day ahead tomorrow - if you fancy coming along to give me a hand - you are more than welcome! :-)

If they don't fit Linda, we can take some so Val, bring them all and we'll help to get them to their destination x See you all on Sunday xxx

Thanks Linda,that would be great. We're collecting them on Sat am & they will have to fit on the back seat of our car for us to bring them to the walk -I'll let you know if that'll be a problem! Look forward to seeing you all on Sun, Val x

Hi Val. Paul and I are planning to be at the Sutton walk with Lola & Lena (it will be nice to see you all) so we could collect the duvets from you and drop off at the kennels (as long as they will fit onto the back seat of Paul's car!) Linda x

If there is anyone who could take the duvets from Sutton Park to Daybreaks on Sun for me, please let me know (this would be great) but if no-one can help I'll leave them at home for now. Thanks, Val

Thank you very much for everyone who has offered to collect. I have had a phone call and the duvets are being collected and going to be taken to the Sutton Walk on Sunday. If anyone is able to collect them from the walk and bring them to the kennels, that would be fabulous!

Ruth, if you get stuck please email me, I am not too far from Stourbridge but will not be around the birmingham area until 28th May (travelling to Sutton Coldfield on that day). If you cannot find anyone let me know and I will try and get them for you - sallydhealey@hotmail.com

Is there any one in the Stourbridge area that is able to collect some duvets that have been kindly donated to Daybreaks? If you can help, please let me know. Thanks Ruth

Hi Si, No thank you for helping with the dinners... even after you let me bore you with facebook photos of my 'kids' lol!! Had a great afternoon yesterday. Lovely to see Wilf go off with his dad :) xxx

First of all, sorry Ruth, I forgot to say "Bye" when I left!! Honest didn't mean to but Amber was not helping encourage people to have a grey as a "quiet" pet (Robbie wasn't helping either though!!). Glad you had a sucessful afternoon. See ya soon x x x

Great to see you Sam and Si, thought with the chaos Amber was causing I had better get out of the way! Sorry we wont be there for Sutton walk but hope it goes well!! x x

Sara, sorry we didn't have too long to talk, but I assume you went out to avoid Amber's chaos!!
Please be very careful with some of your colourful animal friends, it does concern me at times!! Hope to see you again soon.... x x
Simon.

What a great afternoon spent at the kennels with the dogs. I normally do roadshows with dogs that have been rehomed so it was lovely to meet our sofa hunting hounds. Good luck to all the dogs and thanks to Fi for letting me help her out while Ruth was at a meeting. x Si

What a very busy day!!!!! Ronnie was officially signed up and the lovely Charlie and Lilia were reserved and off to their new homes as soon as the home checks are done. It was lovely to have so many visitors as well - it is great to be back. Shattered now so time to put my feet up with a glass of wine :-)

A holliday in keswick is a great place to bring your hounds most of the hotels, pubs who serve food ,B and B s and shops welcome are four legged friends.

Anyone fancy helping Ruth out at the kennels tomorrow? Cleaning out or walking the dogs or both! If you have an hour or two to spare you will be given a very warm welcome!

Fingers are all crossed!

We are cat testing today so keep your fingers crossed they pass as a few of our lucky Daybreaks residents will have homes if they do well :-)

Ooooooh I am after some strong men (erm or women!) for some help!!!!!! I am having a big clear out of the back car park at the kennels to make more space and have a large skip being delivered tomorrow for a week. I am after a few helpers to help me fill the skip! It shouldn't take long but if you are willing and able.... I would love to see you! Just give me a call if you are up for it or pop along to the kennels..... thank you in advance!

Welcome back Ruthie - don't do too much ... why am I bothering, I know she'll be rushing about .. just get fully better, we can't do without you!
Julie x

It's great to hear you are back. Take it steady though. X

Welcome back Ruth I am so pleased you have recovered and that you have had a great break you deserve it I missed you and your comments with the greys it's such a pleasure to read all the comment even good or bad my thoughts are with everyone that as lost there grey its so said I don't know how you and Jill deal with it you both really do need medals don't know how we all cope with out you love to you Ruth bless you xxxxx

We all need to keep an eye on Ruth :-) she isn't properly better (whatever she says) so the first one to see her needing a rest must send her home immediately ! No arguements Mrs B x x x

Welcome back Ruth, so pleased you have recovered and made it to Padstow for a nice break!!
I am so pleased you missed that terrible disaster with that family in the speedboat, because that would have been horrible to have seen!
Our thoughts go out to the family though!

So pleased to hear you are fit and well again! xxx

And it's great to see you back xxxx

IT IS GREAT TO BE BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!! After recovering from nasty Swine flu and a week in Padstow, I am back and raring to go! Massive thanks go to EVERYONE who has helped cover the kennels whilst I have been off - especially Sara and Jill - I am so very very grateful to you x Ruth x

The sun is shining, if you fancy walking some greyhounds today please come along to kennels it would be lovely to see you.

if anyone is free today to join us at the kennels and offer any of our lovely hounds a nice walk in the sunshine, they and we will be very happy to see you :) xxx

Ruth, great to hear you are starting to feel better. xxx

I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has been helping to cover the kennels whilst I am off with a rotten virus :-( I am starting to feel better and hope to be back soon - thank you for the lovely cards and flowers and well wishes - it means an awful lot to me as I feel so helpless at the moment. A big thank you especially to Jill who has been covering so much and organising everything and of course to Sara who is there without fail - I am so grateful to you xxxxx

Cant do friday, any other day, which would be best, see if james and I can come in and help. :)

We are looking for lovely, kind people to help us out this week, particularly Friday, to help clean out, feed and walk our greys, if you could spare an hour or two from 9am please give us a call. Thank you.

Well, what a day, started with the fab news that Pete had been found and ending with 4 homings, 2 reserved and one new arrival, tiring but keep smiling yeah!!

GOOD NEWS!! Pete has been found safe and well.

Added onto dog lost.co.uk fingers crossed someone finds him soon.

Just posted it and it's showing already. We're not far away, so let us know if you need any help. Mand x

Hi Mand, yes please, give the kennels number as a contact. Thank you.

Hi Paul. Would you like me to pass the info to our local B31 blog, just in case he makes his way up towards us? I'll need to give a contact number in case of any sightings-happy for me to give the kennels' phone number? Mand

URGENT. Black and White Greyhound lost in the vicinity of the Marlbrook Pub, Bromsgrove. He escaped from the owner's garden at about 3:00 pm 12/4/13. He is wearing two collars, one with a PB tag.

Just got back after a day at the kennels. Really enjoyed it and so did Charlotte. You must be so very proud of it Ruth, it is an amazing place and all of the dogs are very lucky to be looked after so well. Really tired now though but still have one more dog to walk (and cats to feed, litter trays to clean, foster cats to look after, guinea pigs to feed and clean out, medicine for 3 animals to sort out and maybe squeeze in feeding 2 children and a husband) wouldn't have it any other way though.

Hope you are feeling better Ruth. xxx

I am making the most of being at home by starting writing the Grapevine newsletter..... if you have any articles/photos etc etc that you would like to be included, please email me at ruth.boswell@rgtperrybarr.co.uk Thank you :-)

Dear Ruth, wishing you a speedy recovery. It makes you realise what a wonderful place Daybreaks is....if there is a Greyhound in need I am sure you would always find a bed for them. Lots of love Kate and Twiggy. xxx

Apologies for those who have emailed me and not had a reply - on Wednesday I was admitted to A&E but after a 9 hour wait with still no beds available I was discharged. I have a virus which is affecting my asthma so I have no option but to rest.

I am very very grateful to everyone who has helped cover the kennels for me in my absence - I am missing being part of it :-(

Great, see you then.

Hi Dingos mom, about 10.30 would be great, thank you.

Me and Pete, and possibly a child or two, will come and help walk some doggies if you still want help. What time would you like us?

If anyone would like to come and walk some of our beauties tomorrow, your help would be greatly appreciated.

I found this very touching poem today. Some may know it, some may not. Won't re-produce it here, but u can Google it on "I Stood By Your Bed Last Night". Be warned..... Have the hankies ready!

All the great news from Daybreaks has really helped to brighten a very cold and bleak weekend. Well done to everyone at the kennels and to all the beautiful Greyhounds who have found homes....be happy!! Hopefully homes for those still waiting are just around the corner. xxx

I wonder what today will bring?! After yesterday thinking it would be a quiet day - 5 reserved and 2 were homed! Just keep smiling to myself...... so happy for all the greys we are helping to find homes x Thanks to everyone who helps make it happen x

Hi Deb - it was so busy, I have shown Maggies, Katie's, Eve's and Berts new owners around and all were reserved! I am so happy. I hope all of them work out xx

Hi Deb - it was so busy, I have shown Maggies, Katie's, Eve's and Berts new owners around and all were reserved! I am so happy. I hope all of them work out xx

How have you managed to get so many dogs reserved on such an awful day (weather wise)?
it is truly remarkable Ruth you and your team are bunch of miracle workers.Well done on such a cold snowy day.XX

Missing all they greys and volunteers lots, was really looking forward to a visit today blinking snow :( loves to everyone 2 and 4 legged xxxxxxxxx

Merry Christmas everyone! Must be, there's snow on the ground and easter eggs in the shops! Keep warm at the kennels D&T x x

Fantastic to see so many lovely hounds fostered, reserved or rehomed! xxx

What a great weekend at the kennels, so happy to see so many of our lovely boys and girls going to new homes, epecially Belle and Boo after their horrendous experiences, a happy ending for them. xx

It was freezing down at Kennels yesterday so this is heart warming news.The volunteers and students are fantastic braving all weathers to care for these wonderful creatures.

So lovely to hear all the great news, I hope it helped to keep you all warm yesterday! Where is the spring??! xxx

Yesterday was an absolutely fabulous day - Louis was signed up and is looking fantastic with gaining more weight. Ridge who has been out on trial since the open day was signed up and whilst her owners were there - they saw Lena - and took her too!! Pretty Belle was reserved - off to a home on Thursday and a viewing for Bertie, resulted in him being signed up and off to a fabulous new home with a massive garden :-) What a day!

No problem, see you on Sunday.

Hi Lizzy - total raised at Mell Square on Saturday was £347.67

Hi themartins, if you could help us out in the afternoon that would be great, 1pm till 4pm. Caz, that's great will see you all Sunday morning. Any problems give me a call.

Just seen the message about Webbs. We live nearby and can help any time Sunday 17th with Olive and Ruby. Are you still looking for volunteers?

Enjoyed helping out at Mell Square yesterday and meeting all the lovely hounds ( and people!). Does anyone know how much was raised? :)

We will be at Webbs on 17th Jill, from 10 till 12.30 (ish) and will have Daire, Annie and Yeuna with us

We have a roadshow next weekend at Webbs garden centre, this is usually a very busy event and I am looking for volunteers to help me out on the Sunday 17th March. If you think you can spare a couple of Hours please give me a call 07930 256123. Thanks Jill.

With so many of our volunteers at Crufts, we are desperate for volunteers to help with dog walking at the kennels. Massive thanks to Louise for covering today x

We are desperate for dog walkers today! If you are free - please come along and help :-)

Apologies to Brenda's family who came up to see her memorial plaque yesterday as I had to rush off to the hospital. I am sorry I didn't get chance to speak to you but hope you liked our tribute to our dear friend who is still greatly missed. I am sure she is with us in all we do at the kennels as we have many happy memories of her - I am sure she brought us the sun yesterday x

Apologies also to those who I said I would clip nails :-( and to Lindy's new owners for her homing paperwork. Luckily it was only a 2 hour wait at the hospital and I was back for closing. Thanks to Sara and the other volunteers who got everything sorted at the kennels for me x

So sad to hear Pip, Molly, Wilf and Jelly are coming back to Daybreaks; I know everyone there will give them lots of love. xxxx

Will you need people in the afternoon too? Col & I will come and bring Silla for some greyhound socialisation x

Hi Ruth
I am free to come in on Sunday for a couple of hours in the morning, I will be there at 9am xx

I could not believe all of this sad news when I logged on this morning. My heart goes out to Ruth and all at Daybreaks having so many returnees.

Sending best wishes for Joe.

On Sunday, Jill has offered to cover for me so I can catch up with paperwork, housework and visit Finn. If anyone is willing and able to help with the cleaning and/or walking, I am sure Jill would appreciate it with such a full house at the moment. Thank you so much x

On Saturday at 2pm we are having a get together to celebrate the life of Brenda Molloy - a very dear friend and volunteer of the kennels who sadly passed away a year ago. Her family are coming along to see the plaque we have put up at the kennels in her memory..... she is greatly missed xxxx

Tomorrow we have Pip and Molly being returned along with Jelly - it's going to be a sad day but they come back for a reason.....

Yes today was extreamly busy!!! lots of rehoming! Nows there's not many doggies left!! Ruth U do a great job enjoy your rest before the madness starts again. X :-D

What a wonderful day for Daybreaks, I'm so happy to see all the lovely boys and girls going to new homes and reserved, especially lovely Pluto, but I'll miss having cuddles with him. xx

What an amazing day!!!! Six of our lovely greys signed up, two out to foster and two reserved! We have a busy day ahead tomorrow too..... can't wait! Thank you to everyone who has helped today xxxx ps.... be a good girl Nora.... missing you already xxxx

Just got back from Pets At Home in Perry Barr. Got the usual stuff, treats, treats, cheque for £357.35 and some more treats! New Misfits tangy chichen & egg twists with joke on back of packet! Oh yes the cheque, funds raised by P@H, for the greys from their October national fundraising. Another huge thankyou to the staff at Perry Barr P@H.

I am overwhelmed at the help and support I have had at the kennels today despite the terrible weather! We have taken the dogs out for a lovely walk and their coats are lovely and warm as we have tumble dried them all! We have had great fun suggling with them in the kennels - especially with Pluto - he is a cuddle monster!!!!

That is exciting, can't wait to see the new lounge! How nice of the staff at Fivelands to not charge any extra for their work on Lindy, she is very lucky to have found herself at Daybreaks. xxx

thanks for your comments - I can't wait for it to be finished.... I have been trawlling through ebay to find some nice chairs to complete the room! Erm.... no Simon,Jay&Amber - our sleepover days have finished now.... onto more exciting fundraising ideas! :-)

It has been a busy weekend, seeing Wendy and Lily reserved, Sally off on trial and the arrival of the gorgeous Socks. Also to be signed up was the lovely Walter and it was great to see him again. He is doing so well with the cat - he has landed on his feet with such a fabulous home!

A big welcome also to our new foster volunteers who have kindly taken Robbie for the next 12 days.

Lindy (the stray who arrived last week) is doing really well and will be off to the vets to have the rest of her dental work completed - for which the fabulous Fivelands are not going to charge us extra! THANK YOU! This is a great relief after receiving the invoice for the treatment of Davey B who was returned last week which came to over £600 :-(

What a brilliant idea - but I bet you are planning another sleepover at the kennels again really eh Ruth?

And it's somewhere to go when you've had a row with the other half :)

That is such a good idea Ruth!! Can't wait to come and see it and have a cuddle with a grey! Be great for introducing greys to each other and seeing how they get on as well!

Wow, how fab is that, I wont get James home now Ruth!!!!! x

That sounds just perfect. A really good idea. X

Wow how fab will that be. Ruth you truly are a star, where would they be without you xxx

Well - my exciting news - hoping it was going to be finished but the job has been much bigger than imagined - we are building a new viewing lounge! It is going to be fantastic for us for people viewing to take time sitting in comfort with a grey to see how they react out of a kennel environment. It will also double as a great place for our volunteers (and visitors) to have a drink and chill with a greyhound on the sofa! :-) I will post photos as soon as it is finished.

umm another beautiful picture of Davey !! I think it could be grey No7 for Ruth ??????

Great news for the little stray....it was so nice to have a cuddle with her at the weekend, what a lovely girl she is. Hope Davey B gets on ok at the dentist. Well done to you all for passing the health and safety check! xxx

Just to let you know - the little stray had her x-rays yesterday. They showed nothing which is fabulous news and already she seems a lot more steady on her legs. The mammary tumour was dealt with and they speyed her at the same time and removed just a few teeth so she didn't stay under anaesthetic for too long. She needs to go back in a couple of weeks for the full dental. She had a very settled night and is coming with me to the kennels later.

It was very sad having Davey B arrive as a returnee as sadly his teeth are in an awful state. Caroline has kindly taken him to foster him and he is being booked in next week to have his teeth dealt with.

We had our health and safety inspection yesteday which we passed with flying colours other than needing some yellow paint on the steps to our runs!!!!!!

Thanks in particular go to Jayne and Caroline who helped me so much yesterday - we had a big shed clear out (!) and to Steve who washed the van too... I am lucky to have so many wonderful friends. x

Thank you Ruth &Jayne. Had a great time today at the Kennels thank you. picked up Davey (Mr Grey) a foster boy , settled really well such a lovable boy he's a very lively lad in the nicest way for a 9 year old xx