GFNJ Home Stretch

Volume 15 Issue 1 Spring 2012

Letter From the President

Dear Friends,   

While we are all proud of GFNJ, we can be especially pleased about the 10^th anniversary of our Prison Foster Program, which is featured in this issue.  Perhaps you’ve been lucky enough to adopt one of the 345 dogs that graduated from the program.  If you’re like me, the excerpts in the article from inmates’ log books will take your breath away, if not bring a tear to your eye. 

I’m sure you’ve noticed an entirely new look and feel to our newsletter.  I’m excited to tell you that an adopter and graphic designer, has donated her time to design this issue, and her friend has donated the paper and printing.  With the savings, we can rescue a number of additional dogs. 

Now on a solemn note, I’m very sorry to tell you that I lost a friend in November, and so did the world of greyhound rescue. Linda Jensen suddenly passed away the day we were welcoming a haul she had put together.  She was always close to the phone when “her” greys were being transported, but I couldn’t reach her that day and I remember commenting it was strange. Talking to Linda was something I did often. She’d call me to say there was a dog that had suffered a broken leg, or a shy one, or an old one that had no place to go. She knew she could count on GFNJ to rescue any greyhound. 

Linda was involved in greyhound adoption for more than 20 years and placed close to a thousand greys a year in rescue groups.  In 2005, Linda played a key role in moving hundreds of dogs out of Connecticut when Plainfield Greyhound Park ended live racing. She called me regularly as we coordinated dogs coming to us when Massachusetts tracks shut down in 2010.  Sometimes we received 23 at once. 

An article quoted Linda, “When you adopt a greyhound, it’s kind of like joining a cult,” as she described the Meet & Greets, weekly group walks, fundraising events, and reunions that rescue groups hold regularly. Of course, she was right, and we know it. When you adopted your grey, you became one of those people who will do anything for the skinny, statuesque, loving dog at their feet.  GFNJ took in hundreds of greyhounds she found for us, so it’s very likely that yours came to you by virtue of the love Linda Jensen had for this breed. 

Those who nominated Linda for the 2010 “Greyhound Person of the Year” cited her “unrelenting persistence in organizing, facilitating and coordinating” the movement of retired greyhounds from tracks and farms to greyhound adoption programs. 

I don’t like to think about what may have happened to our dogs if Linda had not stepped in to move them out of the track and into our homes.  

Thank you Linda, we all miss you. 

Warmly,

Linda Lyman

Celebrating the 10^th Anniversary of the GFNJ Prison Foster Program

By Sue Smith,  Program Director 

The GFNJ Prison Foster Program started on May 14, 2002 when three greyhounds were taken to Mountainview Youth Correctional Facility in Annandale, NJ. Six inmates, who earned the privilege of caring for a grey through good behavior, were assigned to the dogs, a handler and a back up handler for each. The success of the program was immediate. After a few years, we expanded to seven dogs and fourteen inmates, then five years ago we expanded to 11 dogs and 22 inmates.

The purpose of the program is to give greyhounds, in need of some extra TLC, time before they are made available for adoption. A big part of the program is socializing the dogs with other greys and people. The dogs live in the cell with their handler and follow a regular schedule where they are walked and fed at the same time everyday. The inmates learn how to train dogs in weekly classes with a trainer and receive lectures on animal related topics from guest speakers. The dogs learn basic obedience; heel, sit, stay and down, and how to climb stairs.

In recent years, we have educated the inmates in the care of broken legs, basic first aid for the dogs, the care of corns, and how to make shy dogs comfortable. The prison is the perfect place for special needs dogs to heal or gain confidence.

The inmates are great with the dogs and many have been motivated to stay out of trouble while at the prison so they are not cut from the program.

Each man keeps a daily journal about the dog’s progress and personality, which helps the young men improve their communication skills and provides useful information on the dogs.

“…She got a little scared at times but I reassured her it was ok and we made it through (the storm) but she was happy when it was over. All and all shes a very good dog and Im happy Im her handler.”

“We had to write our promotional paragraphs for our dogs and doing Tippers was easy because shes so adorable and such a joy.”

“I love this dog. I pray his owners will also, he deserves a good family, please.”

GFNJ, the Department of Corrections, and the inmates were proud when the Prison Foster Program received the 16th Annual Hall of Fame Award from The New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association in 2011.

In the process of fostering the greyhounds, the young men learn to care for and be responsible for another living creature – often for the first time in their lives. They take pride in their dogs and enjoy watching them adjust to life off the track.

A few inmates who have been released have gone on to volunteer or work at local animal shelters.

People who have adopted graduates of the program are quick to tell us how well-adjusted, obedient, and friendly their dogs are. Often, when you meet one of the dogs you’ll see them “sit” on command.

Prison administrators, inmates in the program, their dogs, and GFNJ members attended a special luncheon at the prison celebrating the 10^th anniversary of the Prison Foster Program.

If you’re interested in adopting a greyhound in this program, please contact Linda Lyman at 856-751-5134 or lelyman@verizon.net

“You my friend, fill a barren space, I close my eyes and see your face, And think of times you make me Laugh, The love we share the bond we have, You help me learn, You teach me Love, The friendship shared by just we two”

So My Dog Has A Corn, Now What?                                                                                                              

By Dr. Lorraine Marks, DVM

What are corns and where do they come from?

Corns are a common ailment of greyhounds that lead to lameness.  They are hard, painful areas which form on the pads.  When corns first appear, they look like a tiny dot that grows until the corn breaks through the pad.  As they grow, they appear as a firm, round area that has a slightly different texture or color than the rest of the pad.                         

The exact cause of corns is still unknown, but they seem to be an affliction exclusive to greyhounds.  It is thought, by some experts, that corns are a result of damage or trauma to the pad and the body’s natural response is to form scar tissue to wall off the area.  Others believe that greyhounds simply do not have enough fat cushion in their toe pads, and the corn is caused by pressure between the toe bone and pad.  Another belief is that corns are caused by a Papilloma virus.  There seems to be a good deal of credence to this theory, given the response to antiviral medications post removal.

Symptoms of corns include general lameness, limping, holding up a paw while standing and a preference for walking on soft surfaces.  All limping greyhounds should be checked for corns.

How can corns be treated?

There are various methods of treatment.  Keep in mind that corns are very painful and treatment is necessary. 

Hulling:  The first, and most preferred, method is to have the corn “hulled.”  This is generally done without sedation and provides almost immediate relief.  This is done by gently elevating the corn out of its bed, eventually freeing it from the pad.  Follow up treatment using an antiviral medication, like Abreva or Aldara, may be indicated.

Filing or Dremeling:  Some people are successful in using a Dremel or file to grind the corn flush with the pad.  This only provides temporary relief.

Softening:  Soaking the foot in Epsom salts may serve to draw the corn out so that it can be more easily removed.  I typically do this prior to hulling the corn.  Additionally, using mineral oil or bag balm may soften the corn and alleviate some of the discomfort.

Therapaws:  Use of Therapaw boots may greatly relieve pain between hulling or prior to removal.  These boots are specially designed with a cushioned sole and high shank to fit skinny greyhound legs without falling off.

Surgery:  Generally, this is not recommended.  While the dog is anesthetized, a deep incision is made into the pad and the corn is removed.  Healing is difficult and infection is a possible complication.  Furthermore, there is no guarantee the corn will not recur.  If surgery is elected, laser is the preferred method.

Toe Amputation:  Amputation should be the ultimate last resort.  As with surgery, however, there is no guarantee that the corn won’t return on another toe.

Is there a cure?

Unfortunately, there is not currently a cure for corns.  Occasionally when corns are removed, they will not come back, however, the majority do.  Therefore, corn management is key. 

Dr. Marks is owner of Round Valley Animal Hospital, 1170 Route 22 West, Lebanon, NJ. 908-840-4022. She is one of the veterinarians  GFNJ uses regularly.

All Shook Up

By Heidi Gehret

When a greyhound is brought into a new home, even a seemingly calm dog will be stressed. You might not be able to tell, but he will be. Most rescued greys have never been in a house. Adjusting to the new environment, new family, and dogs already living there inevitably causes stress which can lead to dangerous, aggressive reactions from any breed, including your greyhound.

It is imperative that you take charge of your new dog and create a secure environment for him to live in, especially when your grey is joining dogs already in your home. They’ll all be stressed by the change. Yes, you’re excited about bringing your new dog home, whether it’s your first or fourth, but you must be prepared. Think about what you need to do to create a secure the dog’s perspective. You should establish rules for him, starting from the moment he enters his new home. You must communicate that you are the one in charge, something your other dogs should already know.

The best thing you can do for your new grey is remember the dog’s focus should on you, not the other way around. You should be the leader — that’s what he wants and needs and that’s a "normal" environment in the dog’s mind.  No doting, no babying, not too much affection — believe it or not, all that causes stress in a new dog who isn’t used to it. Think of how you feel when you encounter someone who’s in your space and talks non-stop. There’s plenty of time for affection after the adjustment period is over. 

GFNJ strongly suggests that all newly adopted greyhounds and your existing dogs be crated or muzzled when left alone together. All dogs should be muzzled and supervised when they’re in the yard together, because what looks like a playful run can turn into an aggressive race between retired athletes who were always muzzled when they were at the track.

One more reminder; when boarding your greyhounds or other dogs, we recommend that they be kept in separate runs to avoid any stress-induced reactions.

Thinking about adopting another greyhound? It can go smoothly, be patient, it may take a little time. If you’d like to get advice on the best way to welcome your new dog, feel free to contact me at 803-589-9033 or hgehret@yahoo.com.

We Speak Greyhound 

By Lynn Heiler 

One of the most important things we do is educate people in our communities, both adults and children, about greyhounds. Our Board members love telling folks how wonderful these dogs are, as a breed and as pets.

We hold Meet & Greets regularly all over NJ, set up booths at fairs, and march in parades. You can find us at schools and colleges, educating students about responsible dog ownership, behavior, and safety.  Ellen takes Orville, one of her certified therapy greyhounds, go into elementary schools and libraries as part of “Tail Waggin’ Tutors” where young children read to him.  He loves listening to them gain confidence as if he knows reading aloud in front of others can be tough.

Linda Lyman is asked to bring a dog or two to a variety of special groups like Boy Scout camps, children’s bereavement camps, and Jewish Community Centers. Denise Parkanyi and Janet Marshall spoke to 40-50 members of the High Bridge, NJ Masonic Lodge recently, where some even inquired about attending other GFNJ events.  Next month, I’ll take two or three of my greys to a retirement community where 200 residents will be able to learn about them and ask questions.  I love their reaction when I tell them a grey is so fast they can cover a football field in less than 10 seconds. 

Spread throughout NJ, in southeast PA, and southern NY, GFNJ Board members are available to speak to your group, school, or other organization. Contact Linda at lelyman7@verizon.net and she’ll put you in contact with the expert in your area.  And if you know someone at your local paper, radio or TV station who wants someone to talk or write about greyhounds or make an appearance, please let me know at lynnheiler@aol.com.

GFNJ Therapy Greys

By Lynn Heiler

This article first appeared in Celebrated Greyhound Magazine

Confined to a wheelchair by cerebral palsy, Alice didn’t think she could bear the sorrow of attending her father’s funeral.  A true animal lover, she knew that a dog can soothe the pain of a person in despair, so she asked for therapy dogs to help her deal with the sadness of the event.  A Greyhound Friends of New Jersey volunteer saw the plea on a message board, calls went out, and a number of greyhound therapy dogs showed up at the funeral home.  Alice brightened up as soon as she saw the dogs that stayed with her through the entire service.  Whether greyhounds have an other-worldly skill to bring real comfort, or whether quiet, seemingly sympathetic greys just provide a helpful distraction, stories abound about these dogs and the difference they make in peoples’ lives — sometimes even life-changing differences.

Greyhound Friends of New Jersey encourages its adopters to train their dogs and have them therapy-certified.  For years, TDI testers have come to our annual spring and fall picnics where they certify qualified dogs.  People wait and watch quietly while the dogs go through their paces. It’s pretty exciting to see one pass, knowing all the love and dedication that went into the training.  Facilities looking for visits by therapy dogs are listed on the GFNJ web site, and our newsletters often promote the idea with items written by owners who are happy to talk about how much it means to them, their dogs and the people they’ve affected.

Ellen Ganopoulos, a GFNJ member, was inspired by stories of the therapy greyhounds who responded to the families of 9/11 victims.  Otherwise inconsolable people took comfort from the kind demeanor of the dogs.  She knew her two greys would make good therapy dogs, so now Wilbur is Therapy Dog International certified while Orville is TDI-DSR certified, meaning he’s a disaster response dog, too.  She and her dogs are members of the Ocean County, NJ Emergency Response Crisis Counselors.  The grey boys even have their own Homeland Security Essential Personnel badges, real ones.

     Orville and Wilber

Along with a number of activities such as Boy Scout “pet care and appreciation” events, Orville and Wilbur visit schools and libraries as part of the TDI “Tail Waggin' Tutors” Program.  Sometimes a child is too shy to read aloud so they are put into a non-threatening setting, with an appreciative greyhound who seems to be listening.  The participating children are encouraged to get comfortable and read to the dogs. Ellen tells the children that Orville and Wilbur are specially trained "reading dogs," and they’ll fall asleep if the child does a good job.  Naturally, greyhounds are more than willing to go along with the scheme, so it always seems to work.

Ira Kupferberg started training his GFNJ greyhounds in 2006 after reading a newspaper article about a woman who took her dog to visit patients with developmental disabilities. Now, he and his greys visit three nursing, an assisted living facility, a special education school, hospice patients and a hospital with detox, psychiatric, and medical patients. To date, Shala has made 200 visits, and Misty has made 100.

We know therapy works for dogs and people, so we have our own therapy program.  For nine years, our award-winning Prison Foster Program has brought together 22 inmates with 11 greys in need of TLC.  The dogs live in the men’s cells for six to eight weeks, receiving socialization and training.  And although they’re not therapy-certified, the greys provide rehabilitative benefits to incarcerated young men at the same time.  In the diaries the men are required to keep, we read that the dogs have taught them to trust and be responsible for another living thing, sometimes for the first time in their lives.  It’s hard to say who gets more therapy, the greyhounds or the inmates.

Linda Lyman, president said, “Greys make excellent therapy dogs because of their natural calm and intelligence.  We’ve all been there when our grey seems to know we need a hug.  Why not share their gift with others?”

7^th Annual GFNJ Scotch Bowl

By Nancy Bowden

Looking for something fun to do on a Saturday night? We have just the thing. On August 4^th, GFNJ and Rusty’s Place Pet Supply will hold the seventh annual Scotch Bowl at Holiday Bowl in Oakland NJ.

You may be asking yourself, "What is a Scotch Bowl?"  Unlike regular bowling, at a Bowl partners bowl together just for fun. For each frame, one person throws the first ball, and if there’s no strike, the partner throws the second ball to finish the frame. To make it even more fun, each frame is bowled differently. In one, partners might have to lie down to bowl, or roll the ball through their partner's legs in another.

You don’t have to bowl – some people just come for the delicious dinner, basket raffle, 50/50 drawing, and special grand prize raffle. It’s a great way to spend an evening with friends and help raise money to save more greyhounds.  Bowl has been generous enough to provide the food and staff. They have shoes but if you prefer to wear your own, just make sure they are rubber, white-soled shoes or sneakers

The event sells out, so keep an eye on our website to get your tickets. If you want to volunteer to help at the event or donate items for the raffle or a grand prize, or If you know a company we should contact for raffle items, please contact me at Bowden@warwick.net. 

Holiday Bowl

29 Spruce St,

Oakland, NJ 07436 

Saturday, August 4, 2012 

Check-in 7:00 pm, event 8:00 to 11:00 pm

Bowlers — $60.00 for two Non-bowlers — $25.00 per person

The Unkerts Enjoying the Scotch Bowl

COME PLAY WITH GFNJ

MAY 20:  ANNUAL SPRING PICNIC — There will be vendors, raffles, pot luck lunch, Adoptable Greyhounds!

Leashed dogs welcome. Bring your friends! 

Duke Island Park

Old York Road, Bridgewater, NJ

11:00 am to 3:00 pm

AUGUST 4:  SCOTCH BOWL — Always a sell-out! Bowling, buffet, raffle, & fun!

Holiday Lanes

29 Spruce Street, Oakland, NJ

7:00 pm to 11:00 pm

SEPTEMBER 23:  ANNUAL FALL PICNIC — Say goodbye to summer & enjoy vendors, raffles, great food Adoptable Greyhounds! Leashed dogs welcome.

Bring your friends!

Duke Island Park

Old York Road, Bridgewater, NJ

11:00 am to 3:00 pm

OCTOBER TBA:  SOUTH JERSEY OCTOBERFEST — Enjoy fall color at the kennel where we welcome our new Greyhounds!

Vendors, great food, raffle & Adoptable Greyhounds! Leashed Greyhounds welcome.

Tabernacle Bed & Biscuit

46 Carranza Road, Tabernacle, NJ

11:00 am to 3:00 pm

NOVEMBER 17 & 18:  16TH ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW & PET EXPO — Our biggest fundraiser of the year!

100 Vendors! Santa Photos! Lunch in The Grey Café! Huge Raffle!  Adoptable Greyhounds! 

Westfield Armory

500 Rahway Avenue, Westfield, NJ

Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm 

Carolyn Messina, songwriter and performer, will be treating us to her lovely voice again at this year’s Craft Show where she donates her time and talents to us. If you didn’t hear her last year, you’re in for a real treat!    Go to carolynmessina.com

Go to www.greyhoundfriendsnj.org for Meet & Greets, weekly group walks, Adoption Days & lots of other special events that will be added — such as wine tasting events & raffles.  We're always looking for creative ideas.

Events like these don’t happen without the help of volunteers coming together for a common cause, in our case, saving greyhounds.  Thank you to everyone who donates raffle prizes, to our volunteers, and Board members who work hard to support our events.  If you would like to volunteer, please contact Ellen at redreeper@aol.com or 973-759-0461.  If you have something you’d like to donate for a raffle, please contact Maria Lutz at flutz11331@aol or 732-521-8330. Can you help us publicize our events? Contact Lynn Heiler at lynnheiler@aol.com. 

Greyhounds Available for Adoption

	Solitary Herb aka Herb was returned recently because his family had to downsize. His foster family says Herb’s a very good, happy, playful boy. He is affectionate and great on a leash. Herb who will be 8 in May, loves people, but cannot live with a cat. Please consider him.
	Sneak Thru aka Roxy is doing very well in her foster home. Her foster mom says she’s outgoing and sweet. She should go to experienced greyhound owners to guide her and is not suitable for families with children under 13 years old. This 4 year old would be a great addition to the right home.
	Mulberry Tabitha is a sweet 2 year old who is in our Prison Foster Program and enjoying obedience training. Tabitha walks well on a leash but very interested in any small animal she sees so would do best in a fenced yard. This small girl would not be suitable for a home with a cat but loves people.
	Holly aka Keera is a beautiful 5 year old girl who was returned after nipping the cocker in her previous home. With supervision, she’s doing well in her foster home with other greys and loves to play. Please consider giving her a forever home.

Watch the GFNJ website for all Available Greys. Our Prison Foster Program dogs will be at the Spring picnic. Contact Linda Lyman at lelyman7@verizon.net or 856-751-5134 if you’re interested in adopting a greyhound.

Want to receive this newsletter by email only ?  Or has your email or home address changed?  Please  notify Patty Comerford at patty.comerford@gmail.com.

Join our social network pack on Facebook & Twitter! Become part of our Message Board!

Greyhound Friends of New Jersey, Inc. Annual Membership Application

Don’t forget to renew your annual membership! Greyhound Friends of NJ Annual Membership dues go for the care of the greyhounds.

For an annual donation of $25 or more, members will receive a newsletter subscription; for $50 or more members will receive a newsletter subscription and T-shirt; for the generous gift of $100, members will receive a newsletter subscription and sweatshirt. Write your check today, payable to Greyhound Friends of NJ, Inc. and mail it with this form to:

Greyhound Friends of NJ., Inc., P.O. Box 4416, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-0669.

Yes, I want to help Greyhound Friends of NJ care for the greyhounds.

Name__________________________________________________ Phone ___________________

Address _________________________________________________________________________

Email Address ____________________________________________________________________

Amount Enclosed $______ T-shirt/sweatshirt size (M,L,XL) _______

_____ I don’t want a premium; please use the entire donation to help the greyhounds.

Win a 7 Day Vacation in Orlando’s Orange Lake Country Club Resort

You pick the week in 2013 & Help the Greyhounds

Orange Lake Resort is conveniently located at the heart of America's favorite playground--near Walt Disney World_®Theme, Universal, SeaWorld^®  and other attractions.

Amenities

Enjoy 1,450 acres adjacent to Disney, access to all four resort villages, seven sparkling pools, 1,200 foot lazy river, 80 acre lake with beach & water sports, four championship golf courses, four stores, seven restaurants, two mini golf courses, three fitness centers, basketball, tennis, racquetball courts & more! PLUS grocery delivery, internet access, babysitting, check cashing, safe deposit boxes, photo developing, housekeeping & laundry.

Accommodations

Enjoy the comforts of home in a two bedroom villa that sleeps 8

Drawing at the Fall GFNJ Picnic September 23, 2012 ~ you do not need to be present to win

Send tickets & Check to:

GFNJ

PO Box 4416

Cherry Hill, NJ   08034

Ticket Prices

$10:   1 Ticket

$50:  6 Tickets

$100: 15 Tickets

GFNJ Annual Spring Picnic

Sunday, May 20^th 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

Duke Island Park

Old York Road, Bridgewater, NJ

Spend a relaxing, fun-filled day with other adopters & their Wonderful Greyhounds

Pot Luck Lunch (monetary donation requested for your meal)

 Great Vendors ~ Exciting Raffle ~ Games

Adoptable dogs available to pre-approved applicants

Come see the dogs from our Prison Foster Program!

We will be collecting:
 Pro Plan Weight Circles ~ Used Cell Phones ~ Coke Rewards Point Numbers

"Change A Greys Life" - donate your loose change

Would you like to bring food for the Pot Luck Lunch?

Go to www.greyhoundfriendsnj.org  to view the sign-up sheet

Contact Patty with what you are bringing (pac173@aol.com / 732 566-2226)

There is no electricity ~ Please bring enough to serve at least 6 people & a serving utensil

Even if you bring a dish, a monetary donation to GFNJ is requested as well

16^th Annual Craft Show & Pet Expo

November 17 & 18

Saturday 9:00 to 5:00, Sunday 10:00 to 4:00

Westfield Armory 500 Rahway Ave., Westfield, NJ

100 Vendors!   Santa Photos!   Huge Raffle!

Enjoy A Bite at The Grey Café

Adoptable Greys to Pre-Approved Applicants

Interested in being a vendor?  Or to submit an adoption application

Go to greyhoundfriendsnj.org for details