What to Expect

ABOUT GAO

• GAO is the largest greyhound adoption group in the state of Ohio and the first group to be incorporated in Ohio.
• We are a non-profit, tax-exempt organization under section 501 (C) 3 of the IRS code. Any donation made to GAO is tax deductible. Any money (or mileage) spent in helping the greyhounds of GAO is tax-deductible.
• We have been in existence since 1993 and, as of January 2005, have placed more than 1100 greyhounds in loving new homes.
• We are not affiliated with any other greyhound adoption organization in the state
• We are openly and vehemently opposed to dog racing. In no way do we purport that all, or even most, greyhounds involved in racing are abused or neglected, although abuse and neglect certainly do exist. We do believe, given the massive overpopulation of pets in this country, that adding 15,000 to 20,000 dogs annually to the pool of homeless pets is unconscionable. Therefore, we do not support greyhound racing, even if all greyhounds received optimal care and were placed in good homes after retirement (which is not the case).

THE ADOPTION PROCESS

• Fill out the application at the back of this brochure and mail to GAO or apply online at www.greyhoundadoptionofoh.org. Don't forget to include the letter requested telling us why you think you would provide a good home for a greyhound.
• Upon receipt of your application, an adoption representative will call you to set up an in-person interview. The purpose of this visit is to ascertain that a greyhound is, indeed, a good choice for your family. This in not an interrogation but a reflection of our desire to make the best match for all concerned.
• If all goes well, you may then arrange to visit the kennel in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Based on the interview and your family and lifestyle, we will have chosen the dogs in the kennel (usually 3 to 5) that would fit best with your family. Things we look at include: 1) Are there children in the family? 2) Do you have other pets? 3) How long would the dog be alone (some do better than others when alone). 4) Do you have a fenced yard, or will your dog be walked on a leash? 5) How much experience do you have with dogs? You may then choose from those dogs that are best suited for your family and, if you are prepared, you may take your dog home at that time. We ask that you allow at least an hour for this visit (some take much longer). At GAO, there are five acres for you to walk and spend time with your potential new family member (weather permitting). With 20 to 30 dogs at the kennel at any given time, it is rare that we would not have a dog that will fit beautifully into your family when you come to choose!

About Your Greyhound

Prior to adoption, your greyhound will have

• been spayed or neutered
• been updated on vaccinations (DHLP / Parvo and Rabies) if not current
• been tested for heartworm
• been dewormed
• had a complete dental cleaning and extractions, if necessary
• had a microchip implant for permanent identification
• been evaluated for temperament and behavior
• had any other medical care needed

After you adopt your greyhound, GAO will provide

• Follow-up and assistance during the transition period and throughout the life of your greyhound
• Fun events, gatherings and volunteer opportunities to participate in with your greyhound
• Boarding at a nominal rate if you need to leave your greyhound in a kennel
  Lifelong support and financial assistance in the case of catastrophic illness or injury (as long as our financial situation permits) when needed