Flash… what an ideal designation for a racing canine.
However, being a racing dog was far from ideal.
Throughout his life, Flash has triumphed in numerous races. Regrettably, he was losing the most critical one yet: the race that would lead him to his forever home.
This courageous canine was halted just before crossing the finish line and returned to the start, back to the kennel where he was left in solitude.
With each new dawn, Flash’s optimism diminished. He became convinced that his human would never arrive.
And then… a miracle occurred!
Flash was called for another race, and he emerged as the champion.
His reward?
His new humans and a nurturing forever home.
The Race Of His Existence
Have you ever considered what occurs with racing Greyhounds once they finish their careers?
Indeed, these dogs are athletes in the canine realm, and they embark on careers. In the majority of situations, such dogs are placed in adoption programs or rehabilitation.
While it may seem commonplace (a dog receiving his retirement, right?), it isn’t. Just envision the brutal treatment many of these dogs must endure.
The Humane Society of the United States sheds light on this issue:
Numerous racing dogs incur injuries during races; according to state records, a racing greyhound expires every three days on a Florida track. These social beings are also compelled to spend the majority of their time isolated, confined to cages for 20-23 hours daily and deprived of the chance to walk or play.
Flash was among the many Greyhounds who formed part of this statistic.
After concluding his racing career, Flash was handed over to a shelter where he was left solo and heartbroken. It was a significant shift for him, but not for the better. While his racing life was tough, his existence in the kennel proved to be even more challenging.
Flash shut down, yearning for a forever family… someone to care for him.
Years passed, and he remained the longest-standing resident of the shelter. It became evident to the volunteers that a retired racing Greyhound is less likely to be adopted. Seniors are often overlooked in shelters.
Despite this, not everything was lost.
Flash was called for one final race, and he sprinted as fast as he could into the arms of his new hoomom and hoodad.
A Brand-New Greyhound
Flash’s tale illustrates that hope truly dies last. This unfortunate boy was well into his senior years when a caring couple chose to welcome him into their nurturing home. Flash gained two sisters, Bonnie and Lulu, parents who would do anything for him, and a safe space to feel loved.
Flash found a home, even though he didn’t initially feel like being in one.
No wonder; the poor creature spent so many years shoved in a corner that he forgot what affection feels and appears like.
However, hoomom and hoodad understood that Flash required some time to adjust.
“He appeared sorrowful. He was genuinely shut down,” Flash’s hoomum expressed.
Flash needed to take gradual steps into his new reality. Everything seemed so unfamiliar and intimidating.
Eventually, Flash began to acclimatize to the notion of having a family. He ceased being frightened of minor things, like the usual household noises or his sisters darting around. Flash embraced the transformation and flourished into a brand-new Greyhound.
Once he opened up, hoomom and hoodad realized what a true treasure they had. Flash turned out to be such a playful character! He began to enjoy life and appreciate all the little joys like toys and playing in the garden with his sisters.
Oh, boy, did he adore the toys!
Upon receiving his first toy, Flash transformed into a spirited pup and demonstrated to everyone how sweet, wise, and charming he could be. This is where an obsession was born, and mom and dad were more than happy to accept it.
Flash’s existence became complete: he now had everything.