#open spaces

GALTx eNews: Leashes Are Life Saving!

Everyone has probably already heard that all sighthounds, including Greyhounds, need to be kept on a leash at all times when they are not in a safely enclosed space. Yet, we keep hearing stories and seeing photos and videos of Greyhounds off leash in spaces that are not fully enclosed.

It’s perplexing because we know you all love your hounds. So please, let us say it again: All sighthounds, including Greyhounds, must be kept on a leash at all times when they are not in an enclosed space. This rule doesn’t have exceptions. It applies to you and your dog, not just everyone else. It applies even if you have trained recall and your dog is a really good dog. It applies in spaces that are partly enclosed, mostly enclosed or almost enclosed, such as dog parks that rely on natural barriers like water rather than fences. It even applies when a door is closed, but could be unexpectedly opened by someone else. Leashing your dog (except in designated enclosed spaces) is also the law, in all jurisdictions with which we are familiar.

While we support training recall for all dogs, Greyhounds are simply too likely to ignore you despite their training if they are startled or give chase. And it happens in a heartbeat when you least expect it. In a matter of seconds, sometimes quicker than you can attempt to call them back, a Greyhound can be at too great a distance from you, in traffic, or in some other dangerous, potentially life taking, circumstance.

We have launched too many searches for Greyhounds who never came home. Please don’t let yours be next. Just use a leash. If it helps, think of leashes as safety lanyards.

3/10/22