How to Adopt a Greyhound in Maryland

Greyhounds are brave and devoted dogs. Their laid-back, charming demeanor makes them great companions, and adopting a greyhound will surely be a start to a long-lasting friendship. When making the decision to adopt one, you should consider whether you have a lifestyle that will enable you to properly care and attend to a pet. You must also decide whether you can dedicate the time to train and nurture a puppy or if an adult rescue would be a better fit. Being a pet owner is a big responsibility, and the following simple steps will help guide you through the adoption process.

Things You'll Need

  • Vet records if you own other pets
  • Lease if you do not own your home
  • Dog food
  • Leash and collar
  • Dog bowls
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Instructions

    • 1

      Research the greyhound breed to determine if owning one is right for you. Greyhounds are a breed of sight hound dogs that used to be bred primarily for racing but have increased in popularity as a family pet. You want to be sure the quiet, gentle temperament of the greyhound is the right fit for your family. Maryland has several greyhound rescues, and the operators are knowledgeable and can give you first-hand knowledge. The American Kennel Club (AKC) also has a wealth of information on the breed.

    • 2

      Contact a greyhound rescue organization (see Resource section). Rescues charge fees for adopting a pet, but the fee is typically less than what you'd pay to purchase the dog from a breeder (though it may be more than the Maryland SPCA's fee). The adoption process is stricter, and some rescues even require a home visit prior to approving the adoption. One of the goals for greyhound rescue staff is to find a suitable and permanent home for the dog.

    • 3

      Contact the Maryland SPCA Adoption Center. The center is open seven days a week, and staff is available to answer questions in person as well as over the phone. Before taking a trip to the center, visit the website to review a list of dogs available for adoption. If a greyhound is available, you can go to the center to interact with the dog before considering adoption; pet visiting stops 15 minutes prior to closing.

    • 4

      Contact the staff if you find a dog you are interested in adopting. The center will require you to present the veterinary records of all pets you currently own. You will also be required to show your lease to prove you live in a pet-friendly apartment or home. If you have any children or roommates, the staff will suggest that they meet the dog before completing the adoption process.

    • 5

      Complete the adoption application. The application is in PDF format and can be downloaded from the website. Take your time and answer all questions on the application. The more complete the application, the less time the application process will take.

    • 6

      Meet with an adoption center counselor. The interview can take up to an hour. This is a great time to ask additional questions about the breed or the care for your new pet.

    • 7

      Get your pet licensed. If your pet is ever lost, the license could help reunite you. The Maryland SPCA can assist you with licensing.

    • 8

      Take your new pet home. Expect a period of adjustment. The center staff is available for guidance if you have any challenges when you get home.