The Irish Greyhound - Racing To Stay Alive

As we all know, the suffering of animals is not restricted by borders or breeds. Each day, in every corner of the world, animals suffer at the hands of man. Some of the greatest suffering is the result of the human pursuit for entertainment. Greyhounds are used all over the world for racing. In Ireland, greyhounds are subject to a particulary grim life as racers, much like that here in the United States. Sadly, however, there is not the network of rescue and adoption resources to provide sanctuary to the retired racers. Many racers that are not successful are sold to other lower-grade European racetracks

There are a a number of refuges in Ireland that provide sanctuary for the Irish racers and other unwanted animals, and the Galgo Rescue International Network is launching a campaign to help these shelters and the Irish racers. In 2008 we will host a Carpe Canem auction to benefit the Irish refuges. We are also working on a brochure featuring American greys in their homes to promote the Irish greys as pets.

In February of 2006 a monumental event took place in Spain. The Meridiana track in Barcelona closed for good. Meridiana was the last racetrack in Spain, so its closure changed the face of animal affairs in Spain. Scooby gave refuge to 100 of the Irish greyhounds left behind when the track closed. Sadly, many of these wonderful dogs remain at Scooby almost a year and a half later. G.R.I.N. has been able to find forever homes for two of these sweet greyhounds here in the US (check out PeTunya and Feana on the Adopted Galgos page). If you are interested in giving one of these great dogs a permanent place to call home please email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .