It was Jet's turn to go off to the vets to be neutered today. Poor lad was very stressed at the vets. :( Thankfully all went well and when I went to collect him this afternoon he was back to being his usual happy self and enjoyed some dinner. :))

Ruth had the very pleasent task of visiting Diddy and his new family to complete his adoption paperwork, we are all so very happy for him. Xxx

Pete continued work on the kitchen, it's starting to take shape. Unfortunately he discovered more rotten wood than we expected so it has slowed things down a little.

Thanks to Richard and Alan for putting the big board with all the kennel details on up on the wall. It's much easier to see who is where without having to grovel on the floor to read it!

The Canine Massage Therapy ladies were here for the day. They loved all the dogs they worked on and the dogs loved all the extra attention! I watched them at work for a while. It was really interesting and quite a different type of Massage to what I was expecting. Greyhounds are good to work on as they really don't mind lieing still for a while!

Many thanks to Alan and Paddy for bringing in doughnuts for us all and lots of tins of Sardines for our Daybreaks residents! Doughnuts are a Thursday fixture now!! :))

Thanks so much to everyone for their help today. Xxx

Well yet another busy day today. We saw 2 dogs off to their forever homes, Emily now Ebony and Jean now Angel.
Thanks as always to our Wednesday walkers, the dogs had 2 walks as the weather was cooler, much better for them and our vounteers!
We had some lovely donations of tinned fish for the hounds, thank so very much.
The kennels office had a bit of a tidy up and looks good. I went with Ruth to our Swan office to drop some stuff off, wow what an amazing space that is.
Remember tickets for our remembrance night are on sale now, £5.00 per ticket which includes a lovely jacket potato and a candle in a glass holder with pawprint embellishment for you to light and remember our Rainbow Bridge hounds.
Tickets are also now available for the annual Daybreaks show, this year not only will you have top class entertainment performed by our braver team of staff and volunteers, but also I am told there will be some lovely hot food to accompany this too. Book your tickets as soon as possible, this will be an amazing evening (as always) to remember!
Thanks to Simon for coming in and doing some more work in the sand run. Don't forget the run is available to book all week, and has now been extended even further!
Take care all. Jo xxxx

Poor Fat neck Finn just as we where going to get stuck in with his "Fat to Finn" diet program the vet gave him an anti-inflammatory for his cat induced injury and a side effect of this medication is increased appetite in some cases. Unfortunately he is one of them. I saw him looking longingly at a pigeon and told him "if you catch it you eat it"
he looked at me as if to say "I was trying to do that with the cat and look where it got me!!!" lol
He finishes the med today so hopefully will be back to his usual normal gluttony. Could I book 2 jacket potatoes for him at the remembrance night Ruth. Let's all light up the sky with our candles on 15th September because I am sure our Angels will be looking down watching with Foxy in charge xx

Ruth,I was so very sorry to read of your loss and having lost 2 Greys myself in the last 6 months I know just how you feel.Try and take comfort in the knowledge of all the lovely times you had together.
Jay and Petal have settled very well now,both are still very strong on the lead if we see a cat,am hoping I can manage them on my own once Barry starts his bowls in the mornings and cant come with me !!!
Am glad to see that dear Diddie is still being fostered do hope that works out for him ,he so deserves a nice home.As do all your other lovely Greys,its such a shame there are so many waiting ,don't think things will ever change until they stop breeding so many in Ireland
Wish we lived closer then I would be at the kennels many times a week but the journey from Rugby is a bit much!!

I had fun today helping Pete strip more out from the kitchen... boy - it was not good for my asthma :-( It was fab seeing Mr Jimmy Brindle today however he didn't seem too impressed.... I am sure the looks he was giving was 'I have my new life now and who are you?!'

I health checked cheeky girl Eillie, Will, Brandy and Mr Naughty Pants Nick spent some time in the office - he is such a fabulous boy!

Just logging on I have noticed that Sara has added loads of photos of Foxy to this page..... such happy memories of such a legend of a little fella - boy do I miss him however feel so blessed I was able to have him for a quarter of my life!!!! If you look at the events section, I have arranged a remembrance night at the kennels - a special evening to remember all our lost but loved ones.... I hope you can come x

Both Teddy and Treaty seemed to have recovered from their recent neutering ops. They were much happier today. :))

Sweet little Jet went home today. Wishing her a very happy new life with her new family. :) Apologies to Barney's Mom and Sister for the long wait while Jet's paperwork was completed. It was lovely to see you both. I am sure Barney will like the new pet tag you ordered for him. :)

We had a visit from Lola and Jimmy this morning. They came to use the run, both of them looked very well and happy! Xx

Horsey's Mom popped in to see us to let us know how her lad is getting on. He is doing great and all the family adore him! So very happy for him. Xx

We were a little short of helpers this afternoon, thanks to Sara for taking most of the dogs into the sand run and to James for his help with feeding.

The run is looking good, it's so very long! :) The new enclosure for the chickens is great, gives them lots more room.

Xxx

Riasdad, It was lovely to see you both yesterday. I'm sure Ria forgot all about her corns when she got her treat from the chippy! Thanks so much for the tins of fish and the donation of Shelby's coats. So kind of you. Xxx

Thank you all at the kennels yesterday for making me and Ria so
welcome. Ria is walking so much better today now those two huge corns removed and her nails trimmed. It only cost me two jumbo sausages and some roast chicken from the chippy to cheer her up again!. I will fit Greyhound stickers will go onto my van as soon as it stops raining.

Fat neck Finns antics are brilliant, always makes me laugh, he sounds a real character and so much fun xxxxxx

A much cooler day today. The dogs enjoyed morning and afternoon walks. :)

Poor Treaty wasn't a happy boy. He was neutered yesterday and was obviously not feeling brilliant, spent a lot of the day crying. :( Hopefully he will feel better tomorrow. He is a really lovely lad, very affectionate. He really wanted lots of cuddles today. Xx

Ruth, Andy, Steve and Sarah managed to reconstruct the chicken coop and they are happily back where they belong. :)

Thanks to everyone for their help...sadly no homes found for any of our beautiful hounds today :(( Maybe tomorrow!

Xxx

Up date on Fat neck Fin's assault by a cat. Now on antibiotic and anti-inflammatory he seems mostly back to his old "eat your own body weight" in one meal, self. He had only just started a very flexible "diet" when this happened and now he is off down the garden again after his breakfast eating all the birds brown bread ! and drooling watching Nina finish hers. He does however have a bad case of post traumatic stress and cannot go in the conservatory where the dastardly deed took place without having flashbacks of having a cat hanging his your face!!! Good job hubby is a therapist lol

The sand run is looking great! Got loads of more space and a tractor to smooth the sand over! It will be excellent for the greys and other breeds to run and play. Good news for the hens as they have their own space now as well... xxxx

They're always with us - just a blink away. Still sometimes think I catch sight of my brindle girl Tia and she has been gone 4 years now. They get so deep inside our hearts. much love. xx

As Shanesmum said, it was one of those days where you can’t seem to accomplish much as the phone was so busy too so after the gates had locked from the outside I set to work!

Four hours later the skip had been filled, so had the shed and the storage roller shutter and I can now get into my treatment room in preparation for today as we have poor poppy coming to have her pads trimmed as well as a few corns to dig out! Huge thanks to Angie for keeping me away from the brink of crying all day.... several times I’m sure I heard or caught a sight of a fawn dog out the corner of my eye..... :-( xx

As the sand run extension is now finished I’ve just go to get the tractor out and rake it and we are ready for action ! If you’d like to book it - give us a call!

Such sad news re Foxy at an already difficult time. Saying goodbye never gets any easier. Take heart from the fact he was loved and well looked after. Our condolences. X

Today was one of those days when you seem to be on the go constantly but don't seem to accomplish much!

An early start saw Ruth take Treaty off to the Vet for his castrate, so with no volunteers I did my chambermaid duties for all the boys & girls!

There were lots of health checks to do, which kept me out of mischief during the morning!

Jet's new family came to visit her on her birthday, they are so excited about taking her home next week. The best news of the morning though was seeing Diddy trot happily off to his foster home - fingers crossed for this gorgeous boy.

Kenny brought his new Mum in for a visit - he is looking great and is doing very well, he is a much loved boy.

We had some helpers this afternoon so the boys and girls managed to get a walk, although the heavens opened on the last trip and soaked everybody!! We had a few rumbles of thunder too, but it soon passed over thankfully.

Work on the sand run is progressing well, and with our new kitchen and the extension to the cat room under construction, we are really excited to see the improvements to our facilities up and running.

The weekend is upon us again, we have viewings booked so fingers crossed please that we can send some more boys and girls out to start a new life and make way for some newcomers to start out on their path to the future.

As it's Friday it must be wine day!! A nice glass of red tonight I think as it's gone cool and dull. Happy weekend all.

Angie xx

So so sorry to hear about foxy. My heart and thoughts are with you Ruth. God bless foxy xxx

Two more new arrivals today :) Tall handsome Roary and very pretty little Jean. We were just contemplating who to pair Jean up with when she was reserved! :)) Fast work! x

It was a sad day for Ruth, she gave Foxy a lovely home. Hoping our current Daybreaks residents will all be lucky enough to find a home where they will be loved as much as Foxy was in his. Xxx

Thanks so much to everyone for their help today.

Xxx

So so sad to say goodbye to Fox today! Gonna miss having the big fella stay with me n my boys. Hope you don't mind Ruth but i've added some pictures of Foxy n ones of him with Charles n Fluff. RIP mate, xxxxx

It is so satisfying! I was worried I was squeezing out pigment! Timmy looks so much better now and is growing fur on his tummy. I also use a facial wash on his tummy occasionally. He likes that! Bryn has been with us 9 years and has a pink skinned belly fully covered in bright white fur!

Hello everyone! It seems we're running low on tins of fish and dog meat for our lovely doggies, so this is a small plea to anyone who could spare us a few tins, the girls and boys would be really grateful! They are particularly fond of pilchards and sardines! :) thank you! xx

Hehe skinny me, I was over the moon when I realised the tummy spots were like black heads I could squeeze...So satisfying! Luckily get doesn't mind me getting them and in true jet style just chills and relaxes! And oh no poor fin...think he's going to have to learn 90% of the time cats will win! He'd have a heart attack here with the 5 cats, 2guinea pigs, chickens, quails and budgies bombing around! Hey does have to put up with some things living with us! Xxx

Oh poor Finn, hope he feels better soon, his antics do make me chuckle though xxxx

Hi Debbie, re: photo 9, yes they are dirt spots and can be easily squeezed out, very satisfying if youre into that sort of thing. ????

Picture This---2 small furry creature hating Greyhounds and a suicidal cat trapped after trespassing into our small conservatory through an open door. Guess who ended up at the vets. Yes you guessed Fat neck Finn. !!! The cat had bit his ear and muzzle (Nina waited outside as both could not get through the door) before rushing past him out of the door past the getaway driver Nina and off down the garden unscathed !!! Cleaned the wounds and put some antiseptic treatment on what looked like a tiny wound in the ear. Luckily I had booked a vet appointment because suddenly it became very tender and so off to the vets we went this am. Temp was 40 and he is now on antibiotics and anti-inflammatory. 2 hours after he he had the medication the abcess burst, funnily on the outside of the ear. He seems more comfortable but not eating as much, so definately not himself. Poor lad is now frightened to go in the conservatory. No doubt the cat is NOT lol

Hi, need to spend some time reading the diary!
With regards to photo 9, the spotty tummy, what is this? Trying to find the diary entry. Timmy ( Autumn James) who we adopted in December had exactly this. It’s improved a bit; it’s like dirt that can be squeezed out and a few actual spots. Look forward to finding out! X

Well I survived the day. All dogs able to go on walks did so this morning thanks to our Wednesday walkers. This afternoon as we were very low on volunteers they all had a lovely groom. It was lovely to see Jill back after her holiday looking really well. We had 2 new arrivals, Jet, a bouncy playful boy and Rosy, a lovely sweet little girl. They managed to have their welcome bath and be put on the website. The phone went crazy this afternoon, so Denise ended out doing the bathings and then feeding all the kennel dogs. Diddy was a little unsettled, so he spent the afternoon in the office with me whilst I booked in our new arrivals watching the coming and goings, when he had enough people watching he lay down beautifully. Hope I didn't break anything too badly.
Horse is settling well as are Kenny and Pebbles, each have their own little quirks which each of their families are working on, just remember if you are worried or having any issues you would like help with, we are on the end of the phone to offer help, support and advice. Take care all. Jo xxx

Hey Jo, you are doing great. Here's to 20 more years of greyhound ownership and working at Daybreaks! Xxx

Ruth, I am sure I can cope. I may not have been there very long, but just to put people's minds at rest I have had greyhounds for almost 20 years. Hope that this reassures everyone. Xxxx

Get well foxy! Keeping fingers and paws crossed xxx

Praying Foxy recovers quickly. Xxx

Lots of love to foxy get well soon. Xxx

Ruth, I am keeping my fingers crossed for Foxy, and I hope his new Meds help him, please take care of yourself, you take on so much to help these hounds, we are all grateful for all you and the Daybreaks team do every single day xxxxx

Thanks for all the comments everyone - knowing we have your support really keeps us going! Sorry for such a negative comment on our diary the other day but I am dealing with a very poorly Foxy and this morning he collapsed again. I am praying the new meds he was started on on Monday may help - please keep everything crossed for my little fella.

Today was another busy and emotional day - First thing the chap came to continue work on the sand run so as we have the fencing down in one section, we have had to cancel all bookings for the next few days. Bounty was dropped off this morning by her new Dad so I could take her to the vets for the second part of her dental along with Teddy who went in for neutering.

I then headed off to Rugby with Angie to keep me company to see how Petal was settling in with Jay and smiles on our faces - her new mum and dad signed the paperwork. It is so lovely to see such happy dogs and people!

We then headed to another part of Rugby to collect Diddy. Sadly he is getting increasingly stressed around the visiting grandchildren and as they are a big part of the family, sadly the decision was to return him. It was heartbreaking leaving him in his kennel this evening as he was so stressed. The M6 was awful so it took ages to get back and then I was off to the vets to collect Teddy and Bounty. Poor Bounty is now more gums than teeth bless her but greyhounds are sadly prone to dental problems. Her dad couldn't wait to collect her this afternoon :-)

Kate, meanwhile at the kennels, ensured the smooth running of everything and sadly saw Brandy returned. Sadly he is not getting on with the other greys in the family.

Tomorrow is paperwork and escape day for me and I am leaving the kennels in the capable hands of Jo..... good luck Jo..... I'm always at the end of the phone if you need me! x

There is nothing really to add to all the comments people have already posted on here. So we're just sending love and hugs and hope you know how much everyone admires you and think what you do is amazing. xx

Ruth - you & your team go way above & beyond what you do for the greys. You certainly cannot do any more. Yes there are lows for you but always remember there are loads of highs. Nifty sends you a special cuddle to cheer you up

Ruth my love, think of all the wonderful hounds who have found their forever home because of you and your gang work so very very hard to give them a better life. Many more adoptions are successful than fail. You all do an amazing job bring love and homes to these hounds. I dread the day you have no hounds to rehome as it will mean that the breed is at real risk of dying out and that would be such a huge shame. As always your hard work will bring homes. I just wish TC would let me have a brother or sister for Florence (he threatened divorce last time I mentioned it). Xxx

Ruth you are my hero. The work you and all at Daybreaks do is amazing and must take so much out of you physically and even more emotionally. You can not do more than you do to get the waiting lists down. The problem lies with track closures since racing boomed in the 20s to over 100 tracks. I believe we are now down to nearly single figures around the country, and not sure if the same number of greys are being bread as then. Without the RGT and all you wonderful people we could never even keep track of what happens to these beautiful hounds who add so much to our lives (wonder boy foxy is a great example even if he has been a git--- at times he is your sweet soul lol) So come on, you will never loose your passion gal, we won't let you, just sometimes you need to be told you can do no more than you do. We and the hounds love you very much xx

You can’t do anymore than your doing Ruth.
Please don’t blame yourself. You go above and beyond as it is!!

To anyone thinking about adopting a Greyhound please remember we have thousands here in the UK waiting for their forever sofas.

Also remember for every grey homed from Daybreaks another can come in from our waiting list.

Ruth...as people have commented without you and all your hard work we would not have our hounds, God knows what would happen to so many of these dogs if if Daybreaks had never opened, doesn't bear thinking about. People don't realise that you don't 'down tools' when the kennel doors close for the day you carry on with the stuff you couldn't get done during opening hours. I know it is such a very difficult time for you at the moment, and all we can do is give you all the support we can. I know i am still getting to grips with the kennel workings, but please if there is anything you can delegate please do so. As a team we can only do what we can, the key here is everyone at Daybreaks does work as a team. I think that everyone who knows you would never doubt your love and commitment to the greys and your kennels so never doubt this, you cannot physically do more than you do. I know it is difficult sometimes, be strong. Jo xxxxxx

Ruth, I know words aren’t much help - but yourself, Kate and Jo and all the others that walk though the door to give their time do a fantastic job. Looking in there has been lots of returnees lately - is it part of the ‘instant’ world - you can get everything sent to your door and do anything at any time - do people want the instant perfect greyhound? ? With any problems seeing them returning them as you would a piece of clothing.
Be strong and keep going forward - without you we wouldn’t have our girls, nor holes in the walls (Breeze), we may get a whole nights sleep (could be anyone) but can you imagine what they wouldn’t have with out you???? Xxxx

Ruth, think you all do an amazing job and i can imagine how you must worry but just remember, if it wasn't for you non of these pooches would have had a second chance and be as happy as they are! You're an angel! Xxx

All the comments yesterday have also been on my mind all night as I am sure they have on a lot of people who post on here, everybody at Daybreaks does a fantastic job and give their all to find these wonderful hounds forever homes, there is nothing more you could do, you are all amazing people, I really don't know how you do the job you do, but thank God you do. We are all behind you 100%. Xxxxxxxxxx

Spent much of the night worrying.... Our waiting list has almost reached 100.... 36 were added in July and we just can’t keep up with the pressure of trying to rehome along with another returnee today.... we are doing all we can but it is heartbreaking and frustrating and wish there was more I could do....

Totally agree with all your comments below. Think we've all struggled with any new animal not just a dog/grey at some point and think you have to remember 'it's not their little faults'. They are all different as we as humans are and that's what makes the world to round, it would be boring if we were all the same! But very much so, let these 'puppies' settle and you won't find a more loyal 'child'!. And I think Jo's comment is the one most stuck with me...cherish your beauty as they sadly won't be around forever, which breaks my heart just to think about it and i pray I am lucky enough to have my little boy for many many years to come xxx

Today was emotional and tomorrow will be too. But, the focus of Daybreaks is to find loving homes for our hounds. Sometimes it is difficult and disheartening, other days are full of joy and happiness that a hound has found a forever home. Staff and volunteers make this their goal, and whilst it can be difficult for new owners as Lucy pointed out we are on the end of the phone to offer help and advice to those who want it. Hug your hounds tonight and remember just how truly special they are, they are not with us forever. Jo xxxxx

The message is simple when adopting, give the dog time and space. When we adopted Ele she was a little madam and came very close to being returned after 2 days. Thankfully we got plenty of advice and help and slowly she settled. She needed time to find her place in the pack and it wasn't at the top! We watched the stress and fear slowly leave her eyes to be replaced by trust and contentment. Had we acted in haste then we would have missed out big time. Ele became the most loving happy girl we could ever have wished for and she was like a mother to Paddy. Without her help then Paddy might not have settled so well and so quickly into our family.I know it can be daunting trying to help a new dog settle but think everything about a home, the sights and sounds etc are a totally new experience. The end reward will be a loving loyal pet who will repay you over and over. As Lucy said help and advice is only a phone call away xx

We are totally gutted for Daybreak's when after all their hard work dogs are returned but know we should never judge people I've told our story before of our wonderful grey Ele who we wanted to return due to issues she had towards our other grey...however after much help and advice from RGT staff her 'issues' were sorted Still now having lost her to bone cancer 2 years ago, I feel guilty having ever thought about returning her...for Ele turned into the most wonderful loving sloppiest grey you could wish for and we miss that girl so much Don't give up on them too soon...there's a hidden gem inside these frightened and confused beautiful grey's x X x

Or Lucy and Ellie there are the other sort of people who spent about half an hour with Jato at the Stratford walk, then picked her up a week or so later!! She is still here, I had a wobble just after adopting all three but having just walked through the house and stepping over three flat out black beauty’s I wouldn’t be with out any of them. Xxx

I can only echo what has been said before. These hounds have to adapt to any number of things they have never encountered before washing machines, tv’s, radio, new environment need I go on. You have to give them time to adjust I always with my dogs non greys and greys have let them have their “safe” zone normally their bed where they can go if unsure and know that they will be left alone there. Also establishing a routine also helps they really are creatures of habit and seem to respond to this. But most of all please please give them time to adjust.

So sorry Ruth to hear the sad news about Nick and possibility of more returnees, but reading Reubens history shows that although it took him time to find his forever home he really ended up loved and treasured, and although it is such a sudden thing they did the right thing in letting him go saving him a lot of suffering. I do feel for them, we have all been there. Fostering is a great thing most of the time. If you buy a puppy it is usually chaos for a week or two because they have been taken away from mom and siblings to a strange new place. You don't normally take it back to the breeder though. 2 weeks down the line after a few sleepless nights and sometimes a chewed up house usually you will have a dog started on the road to be a super pet. This is what I think we need to remember. The Greys have had no more experience of a home than a puppy but they do learn fast like a puppy. As Ruth says sometimes it is not meant to be, but please give these "puppies" a chance.
All you need is love (and maybe patience) Hang on in there Nick, 2 of our hounds had waited a year for a forever home before we found each other and they where our soulmates in no time. Here endeth the epistle LOL

It’s so sad to hear about dogs being returned, I do think people need to remember they’re taking home a work in progress when they adopt, not a perfect dog, and some dogs take a little more work than others. That’s why it’s so so important to spend as much time with your chosen dog as you can before taking them home, you’ll start to grow a bond before even taking them home if you do that, which would make the settling in period less daunting for both you and your prospective hound! As a volunteer I can’t tell you how delighted we are to see people come and visit their new family member as much as they can before taking them home, it’s lovely to see! Don’t forget whenever you visit you can pick Ruth, Kate and Jo’s brains about things you want to know/find out, they do say knowledge is power!

Speaking from personal experience there were a few times I have genuinely thought about giving Ellie back and having her rehomed because she’s such a naughty girl (those who know… know!) and it makes me ashamed to say that because I love her so much, despite her constant appetite! With all the help I had from Daybreaks I was able to overcome the wobbles I was having and am now loving (nearly) every minute of owning her, it’s so rewarding! The most important things the majority of these dogs need when entering a new home is time and patience, and if that’s not enough like I mentioned before, Ruth, Kate and Jo are just on the other end of the phone to give you some support and advice! Please give these wonderful doggies a fair chance, they’ll make it up to you tenfold! xx :)

loveheart - it has been so busy recently at the kennels - but with all the highs have to come the lows and I was broken hearted to see Nick returned back to the kennels this morning after only one day. It is such a major life change for these precious souls to adapt to a new life - so some it do well and others really struggle.... I know I would if I was put in a strange environment away from everything and everyone I am used to. Along with this, we are waiting on the possibility of more returnees due to different circumstances so watch this space.

I can understand the stress of taking a newbie into a home and I am not judging anyone - please don't think I am - but it is so disheartening for us to have a returnee for any reason but fate plays a hand and if it is meant to be, it will happen. :-((((

I had to take Foxy to the vets this morning - he is 13 in December and I had him from the age of 14 weeks. Believe me, there were many times I could have happily rehomed him but I have gone through good and bad with him. He is struggling due to a disc problem and I know the time to call it a day is looming so I am going to make the most of my little git!!!!!

It is so good to see how many re-homed, reserved, and fostered Greys there are on the site now. Great work guys.So many are on the waiting list still, so their places are taken ASAP.
I look forward to the day when these lists are not so daunting, but not sure how this can be achieved, as there are so many. Daybreaks you do wonderful caring work and I don't know how you manage to keep your motivation going when you have such daily challenges. I believe it comes every time you look into a Greys eyes, they always seem to be happy and hopeful for the future. Only Fat neck Finn is the exception, he never looks in my eyes just at my hands to see if there is food in them LOL BLESS

Thankyou the Thethirdronnie, everyone seems so very friendly xx

Pleased to meet you Greyhoundcraze, welcome x

Welcome Greyhoundcraze! Xx

Good evening, sounds like it has been a busy day at Daybreaks today! Well done to each and every one of you who work together to help the greys - it is great to see.

I homed two greys direct from a trainer but had lots of support from my local RGT at the time so love the RGTS work. I have now moved to your area so thought I would take a look on here. I love the idea of the Diary keeping everyone updated, I just don't know how you fit it all into one day!!!!

I have some clothes and shoes that I no longer need - in good condition and have watched and ironed them. Would they be any use to you before I take them to the charity shop? I would rather give the money to help the Greyhounds.

Let me know.

Trish, Clappers and Duffey xx

Another very hot and busy day today. Again many thanks to all our vounteers. Morning walks were done, the afternoon was very quiet for volunteers so this taken up with grooming (Clive) health checks (Bella and Alina) and playing in the run with large containers filled with water and toys, thanks Tina. Willie especially enjoyed this.
This morning saw Mr Nick, New girl Emily and Kenny all go out on Foster (may need more FFP T-shirts at this rate)!!!
Lorna was busy with pampers, and we had 3 dogs come to use the sand run, they enjoyed it and have booked again for next week. we also had a lovely couple come to look around and ask questions about greyhound and what sort of pet they make, Greyt ones I said.
Hope Ruth and Andy had a very well deserved couple of days away, hope I haven't done anything to stress her out too much when she gets back (oh please I hope not, I did manage to leave my handbag behined today though). Thanks guys, you are fab. Jo. Xxx

WOW Think you might need some more FFP tee shirts fingers crossed. It is a great way to find forever homes without pressure and so you can get to know the hound and they can get to know you,and also see how wonderful home life can be. Plus the chance that "treats" will be on tap! (Fat neck Finn said to mention this as is it was very important to him when deciding to stay with us lol)

Phew! A very busy day. :)

Horsey went off to his new home this morning. He looked so smart in his new harness and very own collar! Thank you so much to his lovely new family for giving him a chance of a forever home. :)

Bob collected our new arrival from the track this morning, a very beautiful little girl called Emily. She is very sweet and a little stressed in her new surroundings at the moment. Xx

Pretty little Jet was reserved today! So happy for her. :)

It was great to see Shanni, Ken and Dexter this afternoon. Dexter was hoping to find a friend as he is so sad and missing Jack very much. He didn't find the right one this time but I'm sure he will. Bless him. Xx

Pebbles new family came to visit her. She is all signed up and will be going home with them after she is neutered on Monday. :)

Thanks so much to everyone for their help today. We were quite low on helpers. Lots of love to Angie and Michael for doing everything this morning and to Sara and Jayne who did all the feeding and everything else this afternoon!!! :))

Xxx

Thanks Angie. I got the part where you said Jo was left in charge and then read, and I quote, this is where it went all wrong!! Thankfully, I carried on reading and realised you meant your warehouse trip. Sigh of relief and warm glass of rose!!! Jo x

Today was a very different day!!

It started off normally enough, with Ruth taking Leo to the Vet for his castrate and, thanks to our helpers, the boys & girls enjoyed a walk this morning.

Mid morning saw the lovely Sully, now called Sunny, go off to his new home. Wishing him and his new family many happy times ahead.

Just before lunch Ruth asked me if I would pop to the warehouse with her - so we headed off leaving Jo in charge.

Oh dear - this is where it all went wrong!! We got caught up in a mega traffic jam on the M6 and after about 40 minutes we had only travelled along the slip road and just managed to join the motorway! It was literally 3 lanes of stationary traffic.

As it was hot and we were going nowhere fast, Ruth switched the engine off. You've guessed it - when she tried to switch it back on it refused to start!

The driver of the van behind us very kindly tried to bump start us, but when he couldn't we had to get the van across to the hard shoulder and call out the breakdown services.

We had a long wait, and a very lovely lorry driver on pulling up alongside us, gave us a bottle of lovely cold water - Slam Transport of Coventry you have a great driver there.

Eventually we saw the flashing lights of a recovery truck approaching - yay, except he wasn't for us!! However, Josh the driver said he would have a look and see if he could get us going - which he duly did before carrying on down the hard shoulder to find his actual call out!!

We got to the warehouse and back without any further excitement as the traffic was flowing again. Huge thanks to the good Samaritans who came to our aid today - it really restores your faith in humanity.

When we eventually got back to the kennels, afternoon feeding was over and all the Greys were settled down for the evening!

I think after an experience like that it is definitely chilled white wine time this evening, whilst Jo tell me she is going to partake of some warm Rose. There is never a dull moment at Daybreaks!

We have some new arrivals scheduled for the weekend, and more viewings booked so fingers crossed that our current trend of red signs continues.

Angie xx

Such sad news, but at least Charlie had the gift of a home and left this earth as a beloved pet who will always be in their hearts.
So here is my Grey's prayer for all the boys and girls still waiting at Daybreaks and everywhere
I awake each morning, hoping today is the day,
That someone kind will take me home to stay.
If love is the answer
If love is the key
Can anyone out there spare some for me.?

Today was great. Again a massive thanks to our Wednesday walkers and new volunteer Joe.
Lucy had a booking for a pamper for Skip (the 1st dog I bathed, and also the 2nd!) and his brother Bert which I helped with, both looked and smelled lovely.
Thanks for the donations of bedding.
Darren and Ruth put the new kitchen cabinets where we think the are going to go, it will look so fantastic when finished.
Great to see lovely Sully reserved, so very happy for him, long time coming!
Kenny went off for his neutering this morning, thanks Lisa for collecting him, he was not too happy with his cone of shame, but had his dinner and went straight into his kennel, good boy. His new mom called to see how he was.
Denise is a wonder, never stops, thanks to her and to Paul who stayed for afternoon feeding.
Ruth, I hope you managed to make a dent in your paperwork.
So many rehoming and reservations in the past couple of weeks, all due everyone's hard work .xxx

Have just read ALL of Daisy's history and what a wonderful story of love and commitment by her mom, and also by Daisy who was tempted out of her anxieties because she had found "the one" who believed in her and gave it her all so that they could spend wonderful times together. Happy Birthday Daisy, and many more to come, love really is all, YOU GO GIRLS xx

Oh my goodness gang!! What an amazing job you are all doing, every time I look on here you have rehomed more hounds! I can't keep up with it at the moment. You are all doing an outstanding job, fantastic!! Well done and thankyou for all you do each and every day, Daybreaks has an incredible team!! Three cheers hip hip....hip hip.....hip hip, love you all and all those gorgeous hounds xxxx big love from Ronnie and Reggie too xxxxxx

We had another visit from Sal the Cocker Spaniel this morning, she had a play in the sand run then met a few more of our boys and girls. Handsome Will was especially good with her. :))

Ruth went out to collect the last pieces of our kitchen. :)) Work should begin on it in the next few days.

Ruth also took Horsey to see his new home and carry out the home visit for him. He was great and she took a lovely photo of him running around in what will soon be his very own garden! So excited for him. :)

It was a good walking day; not too hot. :) Thanks to everyone for their help.

Kenny should hopefully be going off to be neutered tomorrow now his stomach upset has been sorted. It's Leo's turn on Friday...he has been getting rather "amorous" with some of the other dogs male and female, but has taken quite a liking to our lovely volunteer Lucy! His poor hormones are quite mixed up at the moment! Bless him.

Xxx

It was very weird to see an empty room where the kitchen used to be! Poor Louis was most put out when he arrived with Sara at lunchtime.

We are now using the kitchen at the back of the kennels. Took us all a while to stop going the wrong way! Can't wait to see the "new" kitchen. :))

Fabulous to see Sam now Rollo officially adopted. it didn't take long for him to get his little paws settled. He and Milly are a lovely couple. :)

Met the latest new arrivals Treaty and Nanny, both gorgeous!

Now Nick and Horse have been reserved, Sully is the last of the boys who arrived from the kennels of the trainer who had to give up keeping Greyhounds due to ill health. It would be wonderful to see him find his forever home too. He is a really happy and friendly lad.

Thanks so much to everyone for their help. it was a little chaotic at times today! :))

Xxx

Update on Fat Neck Finn--(no surprisingly, he has not gone up another notch on his collar, yet !
The news is he has become a gentleman. When we come back from walks he usually gets to the water first and starts drinking, however as soon as Nina walks to it he steps back and lets her have her drink. She is a bit of a Diva and doesn't like two heads in the bowl at once lol so he stands behind her and waits,when she is done and walks off back he goes. Today I gave him a chew which he wasn't too keen on so he left it on his bed and came to see if anything else was available.
In the meantime Nina had taken the chew (which she doesn't like as it is quite big) and gone and laid on HIS bed and was happily chewing away at it. !! He came in saw her and when she wouldn't get out of his bed he lay down beside her and watched her devour it, drooling buckets. A gentleman is born, and girls will be girls lol

Nothing new but it was soooo busy at the kennels as usual today. We had the canine massage team in again which meant the inmates had a fabulous time whilst we started destroying the kitchen!!!! Over the next week we hope to finish it and can't wait - we have had really lovely kitchen units etc donated in - so it was time for a change and the kitchen wall that needed replacing as the wood was rotting has now been demolished!

We had two new arrivals, Nanny and Treaty and as Jo was doing the admin side I was able to help bath and do admitting health checks for a change which was great to do. When Nanny shook - it didn't matter when I was soggy anyway from the rain :-)

The rain didn't put us off either - it was a great not worrying about the dogs with the heat as we have been doing.

Petal went off for the day and Kenny's new owners came to visit him and then I was kept busy hunting for the engagement and wedding rings belonging to one of the canine massage team in the sand run that had dropped out of her pocket whilst in there!!!! We didn't need metal detectors as armed with the rakes we found both yay and this meant another job of looking after the run was done!!!!!

Massive thanks go to everyone who helped today especially our new volunteer Darren who emailed on Thursday to ask if we could use his help with any plumbing or odd jobs and he almost hasn't been home since :-))))

The fencing for the sand run should be completed Tuesday along with the base for our extended cat run so things are coming together.

I am just sorry we missed being able to go to the Games Day organised by Michelle - we hope you all had a great time xxxx

What a difference in the weather! But is was great to see some rain! :)

It was a really busy and special day at the kennels....

The boys, Saddle and Roy have finally found their forever home. Thank you so much to Helen, Andy and their Greyhound kids Peg and Eoin for making them part of their family. :))

Gorgeous little Pip was officially signed up and now has new brother
Archie to play with. :)

Absolutely Wonderful to see Horsey, Kenny and Pebbles all reserved today!! :))

Thank you so much to everyone who took a dog to the event at Sheldon Country Park today. Nick, Will and Petal all went along. I heard they all had a great time meeting lots of people and getting lots of cuddles! :)

Thanks so much to everyone who helped at the kennels today. We were a little short of walkers this morning but we were able to go on afternoon walks.

This afternoon Ruth, Andy and Darren went off to visit our good friends Bob and Margaret and dismantled their kitchen worktops and cupboards! They brought them back to hopefully fit in the kitchen at the kennels!! I hasten to add it was with their permission! :))) We will be all posh!

Xxx

The lovely Petal, Will and Nick joined us today at Sheldon Coyntry Park and ALL enjoyed there special time away from the kennels... They were all very well behaved and lavised all the cuddles and affection they got... X

That's lovely Loveheart...see another reason every family should have a grey! Xxx

Well Fat neck Finn has a new fan. My grandchildren visited today from Bristol and had not met him before only Nina who is a small gentle soul. The 2 1/2 year old has had a few scares with barking bouncy dogs in their village so went behind her mom as soon as big Finn came towards her. They looked at each other and I said "he only wants to say hello, give him a stroke" he wagged his tail and out she came, straight up to him " Can I give him a huggle nanny" she said which translated is a cross between a hug and a cuddle I was informed "of course" I replied "be gentle". Well what a "huggle" it was, a little dot just about shoulder height to this big black boy both loving it,total trust.
All my Grey's have been wonderful with children, even the less confident ones, seem to have an affinity with each other. Mind you he was hoping there might be some food based treat in it from her. lol Bless

Three words for today - hot, hot, hot!!

We had lots of helpers this morning and so the boys & girls had a gentle stroll under the trees in their cool coats - just enough to stretch their legs and do what needed to be done!!

The kennels rang to the sounds of drilling and hammering during the day as the first of many DIY jobs that have needed doing for ages were tackled. The door in the kitchen run was repaired, but the drilling was upsetting little Pebbles, so I popped her out into the big run and went to get a duvet for her to lie on.

Well, she decided to be very "helpy" and plonk herself down on the duvet before I could get the cover on it. She then tried to get in to the duvet cover, rolled all over the duvet so I couldn't get to it, and scraped the cover up into a heap! Eventually I did get the cover on the duvet, and we spent a lovely time having snuggles & cuddles. She is an absolute cutie, so affectionate and playful. x

This afternoon was very hot & sticky so the boys & girls had a lovely cooling towel down which I think they all appreciated.

We also had a viewing and more donations of bedding and towels - thanks so much.

After a hot & tiring day, I am now ready for my usual Friday evening glass of chilled white wine! And I'll make my usual Friday wish that the weekend brings new homes for some of our beautiful boys & girls.

Keep cool - Angie xx

Maybe horse needs another Grey with him. ? How does he get on with his kennel mate.? Sounds like he was really frightened, poor boy. It took him a while to get the hang of walking back to Daybreaks LOL. Obviously takes him a while to adapt. He may be a big boy but doesn't mean he cannot be afraid. If Ruth is asking for ideas with her all her experience we all need to get our thinking caps on and try and help poor Horse.

What a crackers day!!!! That will teach me to have a few days off!!! I took Kenny off to the vets first thing for his neutering only to have a call from the vets to say they couldn't operate as had a very upset tum as they sedated him and therefore had to cancel. I think the mention of him losing his baubles sent him into shock!!!!

Thanks to Lisa for collecting him as we were busy with Horse going out to foster, Will being returned, Teddy the new boy arriving and Winny going out to her new home. This was whilst I dealt with George and Maggie's corns, a visit from the Council and showing round a new volunteer who is happy to help with all aspects of maintenance - yay!

The sand in the run has been delivered and sorted and we will have the new fencing in place by next week! We had several donations of blankets, duvets, dog beds and a generous donation from Philip's owners who have been fundraising for us - thank you so much!

What another hot day today, but thanks to our team of volunteers we managed to get morning and afternoon walks done. Thanks to Denise for heading off to Fivelands to collect some much needed medicatio. We had 2 viewings and both are coming back at the weekend with their other halfs to see the dogs they are interested in. So thanks to Paul for staying and helping with feeding whilst i showed the prospective homers around. Ruth/Kate I have left details in both the diary and notepad. All in all a very productive day. Jo xxx

Whoooo what a busy day!!!! The canine massage team were in and all the inmates had a lovely time with the team. The few that didn't have the massage went on a short walk due to the heat.

I saw Bounty and Rosie off to their new homes and the lovely Sam is going to go out to foster on Tuesday. We had 3 lovely new arrivals - Jet, Pebbles and Raven and we have 3 more new arrivals tomorrow.

After falling badly this morning, I am hobbling my way off now with massive thanks to Andy and Alison who helped today and Michael and Angie who came in this afternoon to help with feeding. What a great day!!! x

What a great day for our girls! Annie went home, Pip went out on "Foster" and Bounty and Rose were reserved!:)) Fantastic! Xxx

After a Girly Saturday we could do with a lads Sunday! Please come and meet our very handsome young genetlmen waiting to find forever homes. Xxx

Ricky took Sam out on a roadshow to Solihull today. He was brilliant with children and other dogs, big and small!

We had a lot of help today so the dogs had two lovely walks. Thanks so much to everyone.

We have three more new arrivals tomorrow and another threee more on Monday too. :))

Xxx

Oh love heart I do love your stories, they're so funny! Finn sounds like one very spoilt and I'm glad you also have a drooling dog! Xxx

Well Finn unlike Barney will not take time away from food to keep you updated so I will have to keep on doing it for him. Been on holiday to Bude again and have had to put voile up to the picture window as Finn insists on making shapes legs akimbo right in front of it, All passers by can see is his bum and other appendages displayed. lol Mind you it does make people laugh. Think the sea air has increased his appetite (not that it needed it) and as I was preparing his dinner in the kitchen he sat watching me by the door as I have trained him not to come in there while dishing up. As I walked past him to put his bowl down my foot slid across the floor and I had to grab the door. I looked down and there was a pool of drool by Finn and it was still dripping from his mouth, a perfect booby trap, but I didn't drop his dinner !!! so he had to wait while I cleaned it up. What a dog lol x

Wow Bounty so so pleased that someone has seen what a great girl you are and has a place in their heart for you. Now don't want to push my luck but Horse,Sully and Nick the beautiful black boys must be next to find a couch in a forever home. My first big black boy Grey converted me to the males who often get overlooked. Good luck lads x

It was lovely to meet the new arrivals in person this morning, and what a couple of stunners they are. Kenny is absolutely huge, but is such a gentle friendly soul, and Pip is a real sweetheart.

It was sand run playtime for everyone this morning, I just love the different attitudes from our boys & girls when let loose in the run - some will just have a mooch or a trot round then come and stand by the gate ready to go, and others will race around like crazy things, hurling toys around and thundering up and down!! They all enjoy it in their own way, which is great.

Ruth was tied to the office for most of the day as we had Holly, Shamus and Mandy (now called Sky) head off to their forever homes. It was lovely to see them all off, sporting smart new collars, and looking forward to a new adventure. We wish them and their new families many happy times ahead.

Many thanks for everyone's help today, our doggies got lots of exercise and fun as it was a bit cooler.

Apart from our homers, we were very quiet indeed for visitors all day. This meant I could get on with health checks and cleaning this afternoon - I was doing a great impersonation of Mrs Mop going round with my trusty bucket & mop and bottle of Zoflora!!!

It was lovely to see ex resident Paddy, who came in for a pamper package, he is looking very distinguished as he is going grey on his face, and went he home smelling lovely!

Another weekend is upon us, so lets hope that it brings a forever sofa for some of our beautiful boys & girls. Have a good weekend everyone, I'm going to put my feet up with a glass of chilled white wine I think now - cheers!

Angie
x

We had two new arrivals today, Pip and Kenny. They are both absolutely gorgeous!

Thank you to everyone who brought in bedding and towels today and thank you to Gail for trying to fit everything into our bedding store! :)

We had lots of visitors to the kennels today for various reasons. They all stopped to have a cuddle with the dogs. Which of course they loved :)

We had new visitors to use the run too. The bottom end is now cleared and awaiting the extra sand. :) It will look great when it is finished.

A busy day ahead tomorrow with three of our residents due to go off to their new homes, how exciting for them...one more sleep until they begin a new chapter in their lives. Xx

Thanks so much to everyone for their help today, a special mention to Lucy's poor Ellie. After visiting her vet for an upset tum recently she has been told she must stop having treats at the kennels! Anyone who has met Ellie will know this is not what she wants to hear! Sorry Ellie. x

Xxx

Well done to Rubytwoshoes for such good info on the boys and girls walks, I am sure it helps prospective adopters knowing more about the hounds than just seeing them in their kennels..
I wish I lived nearer to Daybreaks I would be out there with you. However maybe it would be a bad idea for me because I am sure in no time my husband would be saying"It's me or the 10 Greys you have bought home" I would miss him LOL

Well, what can I say. We were so very lucky to have our regular Wednesday walkers this morning. In addition we had volunteers from HSBC. Ruth showed them around and set them to work having a mass clear out. The back of the kennels now looks fab. The guys made 2 trips to the tip and the two lovely ladies did health checks on Nick and Winnie. They worked incredibly hard as did Freya our lovely work experience student, she did the feedings and also walks. Thanks to Denise and Sara Pill for all their hard work and help, much appreciated. Bounty now seems to be enjoying her food and is clearing her bowl at both breakfast and dinner ): Such a fab day, and work has started on the rest of the run, looks great.
Everyone makes such an effort supporting the kennels, and if you do see me sitting in the office, I am still trying to accustomise myself to all af the admin processes (that is until I can work out how to download Solitaire)!!!!!!!

Ooh yes, can't wait to see the agility equipment! The new toys for the run are great. :) It was a very nice trip to Pets at Home and spend money on the doggies! :)) Xxx

hey Kate - not forgetting our trip to Pets at Home yesterday to spend our Lifelines vouchers - we ordered the agility equipment which will go in the smaller area of the sand run and got loads of new toys for the Trust dogs.... it was a great shopping trip! :-)

Thanks Kate!
Today was great, so many lovely volunteers and Freya our latest work experience person. Thanks to you all for your hard work and support, very much appreciated, it was a great day. Nail cuttings done (scary when it's not your own dog)! Bounty managed to eat much better even checking her kennel mates bowl, she is getting there slowly. Hope I managed to do ok. Once again thanks to our wonderful volunteers, without you I don't think this would be possible. Thanks to Ruth and Kate for entrusting me with the kennels today. Ok Oscar speech over. Xxxxx

Jo should really be completing the diary today! :)

Ruth and I were out most of the day having several jobs to do including collecting a fridge, visiting Archie and his new Mom Marjorie so she could complete his adoption paperwork. He looked so happy! :) We also had to get a new tyre fitted to the van and pick up our gorgeous Sam from the vets after his neutering operation.

Everything was fine when we got back to the kennels. Thanks to Jo and our volunteers. :))

Xxx

Holly has found herself a home! :) It was great to see her reserved today. She has been very down in the dumps since her kennel mate Hugo went home at the weekend. This was just what she needed. Xx

Hugo's new Dad called this afternoon to let us know Hugo is doing really well. :))

Rose is a lot better...her poo looked great! It really made our day! :)) Four of us stood and studied it! :))

Bounty ate a little better today, which is great news. :) She is such a very sweet little girl. Sharing with Nick who is a very tall lad makes her look even smaller!

It wasn't quite so hot today and we were able to do morning and afternoon walks. I heard Horsey was a really good boy and didn't stop when it was time to come back! He is a very happy lad with real character. Xx

Many thanks to everyone for their help today. :)

Xxx

I am so very happy Ronnie (aka Kado) has gone off to his forever home, such lovely people. Please keep in touch and let us know how he is getting on. Xxxxx

It has been a day of nail cutting, teeth scraping and corn removals!!! It has been so warm again but grateful thanks to all our volunteers for giving up their time to help. I did the paperwork earlier for the lovely Shamus who is off to his new home on Friday and have just waved off Ronnie (aka Kado) with tears of happiness - his new owners came armed with a bag of peanut butter sandwich squares! He is going to have one very wonderful home :-))))

Yesterday was such a busy day as Kate has already mentioned but my night had been busy too with poorly Rose... I had been at the kennels at 10.30 and just after midnight and again at 1.30am to clean her kennel and she was in a state when we opened up... a major kennel clean - the poor lass - however she was very bright with no temperature.

Lisa arrived at the kennels first thing to load up the roadshow equipment as we were off to an event at Shirley park but Lisa was looking ‘green round the gills’ so with a poorly Lisa and Rose and a homing and 2 viewings planned we had to cancel going to Shirley :-(

I can’t wait to see the photos that Vince took yesterday - we will have a hard job deciding which shots will go in our Daybreaks calendar for next year. It was lovely to meet Pat the competition winner who brought her gorgeous two hounds in to be photographed :-)

On looking at the cameras this morning Rose’s kennel isn’t as horrific as yesterday so that’s good news!!! Let’s see what today brings :-)

Rose had a trip to the vet first thing this morning. She has a very upset tum with sickness and diarrhoea. :(. She had an anti sickness injection which seems to have helped. Poor little lass. Hopefully she will feel better tomorrow. Thanks to Lisa for taking her to the vets. Xx

Wonderful to see Hugo go home. He is a lovely but very shy lad. We have everything crossed he will settle well with his new family. X

Saddle and Roy came for a visit this morning. :) They both looked great and had their photos taken to appear in next year's Daybreaks Calendar.

Later this afternoon Kado was reserved! All being well he will be going off to live with a lovely family and their very cute Jack Russell! Kado was brilliant with him. Xxx

Thank you to everyone who helped look after the doggies today! :))

Xxx

When I cannot decide which cream cake to have out of two, I usually find the best solution is to have BOTH ! lol Probably how I ended up with four beautiful Greys in our home at one time. Very different personalities but all so loving and well behaved. Now all of the four gone, but lovely times never forgotten, Great news of Jack may he have many more good years with his great family xxxx

Which 2 boys did the gentleman like, I'm intrigued?! Hopefully one will find their forever sofa! Hope one is horse? Xxx

Helpers galore today meant the boys & girls enjoyed both morning and afternoon walks. Fortunately the forecast storms didn't materialise - although as I type this it is looking very threatening outside!!

Mr Nick spent the day in the kitchen as he really doesn't like being cooped up in his kennel. He was very helpy, supervising the feeding and washing up! He wasn't impressed when the group went out for a walk (he is still on restricted exercise), so we went into the treatment room and I gave him a thorough grooming and massage with Aloe Vera. He is a bright, inquisitive boy who just needs his chance out in a home of his own.

Eillie bounced her way through the day again - and after two more applications of cream, her sore bits are looking much improved.:)

We had a viewing today and the gentleman just couldn't decide between 2 of our lovely boys. He is coming back tomorrow with a decision after a night of thinking things over, so keep your fingers crossed.

We had a visit from the gorgeous Ronnie & Reggie this afternoon, they are looking fantastic. Ruth spent a long time digging 5 corns out of poor Reggie's paw ( I think it was Reggie, apologies if it wasn't but they do look so alike!). Hopefully he will be able to walk a little easier now bless him.

New boy Sam is a stunner, and a real character. I made him such a tidy bed this morning, all corners tucked in neatly and smoothed down. Within 2 seconds of returning to his kennel after breakfast, he had scraped all the covers together to form a heap, which he promptly lay down on! Later on I found him upside down on the bed, legs in the air, looking very contented. What a sweetie. x

Late this afternoon saw the sad return of Bounty - such a shame but things have got to be right for everyone concerned. I am sure that with her glowing report she will find a new forever sofa very soon.

We have viewings booked again for tomorrow so fingers crossed.

Thanks to everyone for their help today - and have a great weekend one and all.

Angie xx

Mandy had a visit from her new Mom and Dad this morning. She went for a short walk with them and had lots of cuddles. They can't wait to take her home. :) x

Poor Eillie has a sore bottom. The vet thinks she may have burnt it lying on the hot concrete in one of the runs. Sadly she hasn't got any hair on her bottom at the moment so she has very little protection from the heat. She is having Sudocrem applied to the area. Anyone who has met Eillie knows she is a very happy and bouncy girl and her sore bottom hasn't affected her at all! She would really be so much fun to have around and she is very pretty too! Xxx

Thank you to everyone for the donations of bedding and towels. So kind of you.

It started off lovely and cool this morning, the dogs enjoyed a lovely walk along the lane. :))

Thanks to everyone for your help today.

Fans of Saddle and Roy will be happy to know they are doing great! :))))

Xxx

I dropped our latest new arrival Rose off at the vets for her neutering operation this morning. Ruth collected her later this afternoon. :)

Sal, the Cocker Spaniel came in for a visit again this morning. She met some more of our residents. Sully was a real star and great with her.
Thanks to James, Sal's owner for bringing her in. She is a very sweet little girl. :)

Nick spent the day in the office again. He seems very at home there! Hope he doesn't have to wait too long for his forever home. He would be a fantastic friend. Xx

Jo was in today it was lovely to see her. Hope we haven't put her off yet! :)) x

Lots of walkers today and slightly cooler, so everyone enjoyed two walks today.

Many thanks to everyone who brought bedding and towels. So kind of you.

We have a new lad arriving tomorrow. :))

Xxx

Nick went to see the vet today for a check up on his poorly paw. He was very excited to get in the car and enjoyed looking out of the window. He met a lovely Doberman puppy in the waiting room and was a good lad. His injury is healing nicely, but I haven't told him he has to rest it for another two weeks! :( xx

Such a shame Sully is no longer reserved but I'm sure the perfect home is out there for him. He is a smashing lad xx

New arrival Rose is s very pretty and friendly girl. Yvonne and Olivia bathed her in the small run, she soon dried out in the warm sunshine. She is off to the vets tomorrow for her neutering operation.xx

The photos of Saddle and Roy in their new home are great. I understand last night Saddle slept with his new Mom and Dad while Roy snuggled up with their son! :)))

Not too many volunteers today, so we got all the dogs out for a nice cool wash down in the small runs. They all seemed to enjoy it. :)

Lots of sad news around today....sending lots of love to Jack's family and praying Jack will be ok. Thinking of Billy's family and thanking them for giving him such a lovely home. He achieved such a lot in his time with them. Bless him. Xxx

Xxxx

Jack, hoping there is a change for the better very soon. Hang in there mate. Xxx

We would just like to say thank you for everybody's kind thoughts and wishes for Jack, there is no change at the moment but we are praying he will respond to treatment soon. His stroke was massive and the blood clot is at the top of his spine near his neck which is not good, it is just so awful to see our big strong boy like this but we have to give him 2 weeks before we make any decisions. Thank you Ruth for your calming, wise words today, you really made me see that there is still hope, what a wonderful person you are. Xxxxxxxx

So pleased the boys are doing well, fantastic news xxxx

Fab news - so far so good - Roy and Saddle are doing really well and we have had plenty of photos to prove it YAY!

Shanishoo I’m thinking about you.... give me a call at the kennels tomorrow - Foxy had his spinal surgery at Dovecote and they were fantastic. I’ve also helped with the recovery of a friends grey who had a suspected spinal stroke who was paralysed for over a week and the dog recovered and went on to live a good many quality years xx Ruth

So sorry to hear about Jack. We have used the services at
Dovecote hospital with Alfie, whilst there expertise is good make sure that they communicate with you thoroughly and provide you with post operative care as this was lacking with Alfie. Wishing you and Jack well, you are in our thoughts at this difficult time. Xxx

Keeping Jack and you all in our thoughts and prayers. Xx

Shanishoo I was so shocked to read what has happened to your boy Jack. It must have been so distressing for all of you. Sending positive thoughts that he is able to recover from what has happened. Stay strong ...we are all with you in spirit xxx

So sorry to hear about Jack shanishoo I really hope he makes a speedy recovery xxc

:( So sad to read about Jack Sending positive thoughts to you and wishing Jack well soon It's heartbreaking to see our hounds so poorly X X

So sorry to here about your Jack - Archive our big lad had had a spinal stroke or blood clot in the spine at the beginning of dec it’s been a long hard and scary time but he is much better he has recovered nearly all, his back right leg will never be right again but every day he manages a little better.
Remember that you know your dog -you know what is best. We’re we had a fantastic vet at Langford in Bristol but we also had an idiot who I fought every day to keep him alive. Sending love. If you want to talk post a message on Breeze or Jatos page and I will ring the kennel and leave my number. Xxxxx

Thinking of you all and sending lots of love to Jack. Do hope the vets will be able to help him. Xxx

our big full of life Jack was struck down in the early hours of Thursday Morning (around 4 A.M) started off with him in our bedroom pacing around followed rapidly by him becoming unsteady on his legs, panting and trembling, Ken (my husband) had to support him as he could no longer stand on his own. We carried him to the car in a duvet and off to the vet. The vet thought he had a spinal injury so we had to leave him there and return home, to wait until we heard from him after he had referred him to the vet hospital, Dovecotes at Castle Donnington. We went back to the vets and took our boy to the hospital for them to carry on the investigation into the cause. The hospital rang at 1and told us that he had suffered a spinal stroke. We visited yesterday and today. We are devastated as Jack has always been the liveliest dog we know. Would love to hear from anyone that has experience of the same thing. We want to do the best by our boy but it is heart breaking to see him like this.

Wow. What a busy day for all. So happy Jerry has got a foster home (please, fail, fail, fail), and get yourself a FFP t-shirt, they are on sale at the kennels!!! X

Oh my – what a day!!! It has been soooo hot and soooo busy!!!!
As soon as we had finished cleaning (which was a breeze as all of them were really clean except for poor Holly who has an upset tummy) we had our first visitor – nervy Titch who came for nail trimming and plaque removal!

We then dealt with Jerry – his owner is sadly unable to keep him however we have found a foster home for him to go straight to so transfer and foster paperwork was today signed by both parties today and we are keeping everything crossed that all works out for Jerry.

Then poor Winnie was returned and Roy and Saddle went off to their foster home – everything is is crossed well and truly with them and I have already had photos to show they are settling in nicely!!!

Winnie was collected to go on a shady canal walk with Elizabeth and we had a party of different breeds use the sand run this afternoon – the good thing about the run is that there is a large area that is shaded so they didn’t overheat.

Poor Rory was brought in as he was limping and he went off with a big bandage to protect him paw after I had dug out a nice piece of grit!

Mandy had her new owners come along to visit her and we had 2 viewings – one has resulted in Bounty being reserved and the other the gorgeous Shamus!

Naughty pants Nick spent most of the day sprawled out in the office as he is just so fed up in his kennel but it is now bed time – their tummys are full, the fans are on and we just have to wash up and clean down while they chill!

What a fabulous day!

What a very unusual Saturday! It was so quiet this afternoon...can't think why! :) Sara kept us informed of the score; the doggies were far more interested in their dinners than watching a ball they couldn't play with being kicked around! :)))

We managed to do two walks as it clouded over this afternoon and the cool coats did their job. We only have one more cool coat left for sale, they were very popular today!

We had a visit from Seren this morning. She looked very happy and relaxed with her new family. Came into the office and made herself comfy in the dog bed. :) She was even happier to leave with a pigs ear! Xx

Jess had a client for a pamper Who was not impressed with having her nails cut. Bless her.

Let's hope Barney is celebrating with his family again next Wednesday evening! :))

Xxxx

Well, since Wednesday I have felt that my lifeline had been cut! Our internet went down and we only just have it back. So I have not been able to post or like comments, so I like all the comments and the fab news that the twins and Mandy are reserved. Well done sweeties. I would also like to thank Kate for messaging me after my 1st full 'proper' day on Wednesday, so very kind and lovely of her. Thanks to Denise and Ruth for all their help and support, really means a lot. Xxx

Another scorcher of a day - we really are having a proper Summer this year!

It was an early start for Ruth who was on the Vet run taking Hugo and Mandy in for their neutering ops this morning.

It was a typically quiet Friday, so I enjoyed another morning of ambling around the sand run with the boys & girls.

This morning saw pretty little Maggie off to her new home, wishing her and her new family many happy years ahead.

It was very warm this afternoon, so I think the Greys were very happy there was no one to walk them!! We had lots of grooming and cuddles - but they did enjoy lying on the cool tile floors of their kennels best!!!

Many thanks for the donations of duvets & bedding which arrived late this afternoon - we are very well stocked at the moment and the fabulous weather means we can dry the washing on the line. Our Greys particularly like the cool cotton sheets we are putting on their beds at the minute.

As I left this evening, Ruth was about to brave the Friday traffic to go and collect Hugo & Mandy from the Vet.

Well, another weekend is upon us yet again. Fingers crossed that there are some more red signs by the time it is over.

Enjoy your weekend one and all, keep yourselves and your doggies cool! Don't forget we have cool coats in stock, they really are good and last for years so are a great investment.

Angie xx

I have to say to the lady who's fiance is a bit scared of a big boy. Every big black boy I have had has been a big teddy bear and very loving and for that matter the big black girl I had was the sweetest happy Grey and such a daddies girl. I do understand him though and the main thing is that hopefully another hound will be given a home by them. Best to have the one who is meant for you. Nina my little lady is Finn's "Domanatrix" LOL definatley in control but he just ignores her. Food is still the most driving force. In fact I thought I had made a breakthrough with him yesterday. He came over when I called him and I went to kiss him on his head, he ducked out of the kiss and had just come over to sniff my mouth to see if I had any goodies eating .Some men may think he has his priorities right lol Love him!

Seeing the red signs appear over the photos of Saddle, Roy and Mandy was a great way to start the day! :))

It was another very hot day but the dogs enjoyed their walks in the shady lane this morning, wearing their cool coats. The coats really do help in the hot weather. My three all have cool coats. I bought the first one four years ago and it's still in great condition. :)

Carol, one of our long time volunteers popped in especially to see Hugo today. She sat with him in his kennel and by the time she left he was taking treats from her and quite relaxed in her company. He is such a lovely boy and when he is in the right home I'm sure his true character will emerge. Xx

Thanks to everyone who helped out today....it was hot!!

Xxx

Wonderful news for Roy and Saddle. xx

Yesterday evening was a busy one firstly with a viewing for Mandy. She proved how good she was with Tyke and Socks our resident cats and because of this she secured herself a new home!

We then had Marty and his foster Mum come up to use the sand run... as it has been so hot this is the best time of day so if you want to book the run out of hours, just let us know.

Finally the news you have been waiting for with Roy and Saddle is they are reserved and going out on trial on Sunday. I am over the moon for them and hope all goes well... we will keep you posted. X

Fingers crossed for the very handsome pair, Saddle and Roy. Would be brilliant if they could find that forever sofa. Xx

Good luck saddle and roy! Be good boys xxx

Hope all goes well for Saddle & Roy xxxxxxx

Yesterday evening I brought Annie back from the vets following her spey - she settled straight down and this morning she was bouncing around as soon as breakfast came along!

We have had an early delivery as the Cool Coats have arrived!!!!! We already have some reserved, so if you would like one, please let me know - 0121 782 7702.

Ok everyone...... keep your fingers and toes crossed as this evening we have a viewing for Roy and Saddle!!!!! If they get on with the 2 greys in the family - they will go out on trial!!!! I will keep you posted x

I took Annie to the vets for her neutering operation this morning. When we went to collect her this afternoon, the vet decided she would rather keep Annie there for an extra couple of hours as she was rather hot and bothered. :( Ruth picked her up early evening. Sure she will be feel better tomorrow. Xxx

One of our volunteers brought his lovely Cocker Spaniel, Sal in this morning to do some meet and greets with our Greyhounds. Several of them met her in the sand run under the shade of the pine tree. There were a couple who were very excited to meet her! Bounty, Hugo and Kado were all brilliant. :)))

We have extra help at the kennels this week. We have two students from local schools carrying out a week's work experience. We hope they enjoy their time with us and learn something about these wonderful dogs. :))

Xxx

Happy Birthday Daybreaks x

When we delivered the FFPs yesterday once again we where reminded of what a wonderful haven it is for the retired Greys and how dedicated Ruth and all you guys who support her are, and I know that all the reward she and all the volunteers want, is to see the hounds go off to a new life as a beloved pet (something most of them could never imagine when they finish racing) However they arrive at Daybreaks they get the chance of that life. Love and patience is what the crew have in abundance and it works wonders. The two brothers are a good proof of this and I hope someone can give them a forever home so that they will never be parted or at least foster them (FFP tee shirts now available LOL). I have to avoid looking into their eyes or I think it could be a choice between hubby or them and good men are hard to find at my age LOL. Anyway fingers crossed for all of the beautiful Greys, and once again Daybreaks take a bow xx

Well Fat neck Finn had his check up at the vet's and as the scale registered 35k ! I gingerly told the vet "he may have a little post adoption weight problem" to which she said "He looks fine to me" and promptly gave him a Bonio! and as Nina wouldn't accept her treat, he scoffed that as well!!!!!!The vet is now his hero!
We would have used him on the FFP tee-shirt logo but there wouldn't have been much room left for the words LOL
I look at it this way there is just more of him to love x
PS If Ruth gives her approval I will be working on a SAP Tee
shirt. hope she does well with the FFPs and the 12th Birthday is a big success. Fingers crossed many of the hounds will find a new forever home Sundayxx

It was two things today - very hot and very quiet!!!!

Fortunately the lack of volunteers wasn't a problem as walks were not on the cards, so I enjoyed a lovely morning taking the boys & girls for a gentle stroll around the sand run. It is really shady and cool in parts and we had a lovely time just ambling around.

The afternoon was even hotter, so it was health checks and grooming and paddling pool time!

The new arrivals are all gorgeous, Hugo is a very handsome but very nervy boy who is being looked after by Holly at the moment. Kado and Annie are lovely, and little Mandy is a little bit shy but has a real cheeky personality just waiting to come out!

Ruth spent lots of time standing up on chairs wielding a hammer - don't panic, she was only fixing up more drapes to provide shade in the runs!

I have taken a photo of Horse as promised, and he is now my current phone screensaver - here's hoping!

The weather looks set to stay across the weekend, so lets hope we have a great turnout at the birthday garden party on Sunday - and that some of our boys & girls find themselves a forever home. Hope to see lots of you there.

Stay cool!

Angie
xx

We had two lovely new arrivals this morning. Annie and Kado. Kado wasn't very impressed with having a bath and had to be rinsed off in one of the runs. As it was so warm it didn't take long for him to dry off. Both he and Annie are delightful. :))

Ruth took Shamus off to the vet this morning for his neutering operation and I picked him up this afternoon. He was quite bright and awake :) He enjoyed a nice bowl of Burns and sardines on his return. He is a really lovely lad, the nurses at the vets were quite taken with him. Xxx

Nick's wrist is looking ok, but as he can't go on walks at the moment he has had to find other things to do with his time; I think he has been taking lessons from Ellie on how to "acquire" extra snacks! While in the kitchen run he took advantage of the window being open and managed to swipe a tasty cheese and ham baguette from the worktop belonging to Wayne one of our volunteers....Oops! He ate the whole lot before he was spotted, Sorry Wayne! I'm sure Ellie must have been watching and nodding with approval. :))

Xxx

Hot hot hot - not complaining as the washing is drying nicely and with all the fans on with and mist being sprayed, cool coats on standby and the black out blinds down, we are managing to keep our inmates happy so they are not too hot and bothered. I put up a big sheet in roof of the feeding runs to block the sun and this has helped loads too.

I had a trip to Fivelands with the gorgeous Bounty and she has healed really well following her neutering and dental last week. She had the first part of her vaccination course and will be back there in a couple of weeks for the second part. She travelled well and wasn't phased by a very unhappy cat in a carrier in the waiting room at the vets. She also got to meet Auntie Kate (Lady Victoria) who was there with Lyra.

I had a trip to Poundland to buy lengths of washing line with Simon who came to finish the sand run 'jump zone'. The safety height around the sand run has been raised by an extra foot and we haven't got to worry about escapees now as the run is being booked by so many different and very busy breeds!

Well, we are all finished so I'm off home for now but back later to let all the kids out for a toilet break..... no jumbone treats have been given today as cleaning out this morning was not good!!!! That will teach me to have a day off ha ha x

Phew! It's hot...it's so hard trying to keep the dogs cool :((

They all went for walks this morning, the walkers said it was quite cool in lane under the shade of the trees. A few went for a short walk with their cool coats on this afternoon but most came out into the small runs for a break from their kennels and a groom.

Nick enjoyed a stroll around Bobs garden and Bob enjoyed a cup of tea! :) x

Thank you to everyone who has donated things for our Birthday party on Sunday. We are very grateful. If you are coming along on Sunday, if you could spare a tin of fish our residents would be very grateful. :))

Thanks so much to our volunteers who braved the heat to help out today.

Xxx

What an incredibly hot day! We managed to take the dogs out for a walk this Morning but by lunchtime it was just too hot. Some of them had a little time in the run, while others enjoyed a groom and play in the small runs.

Ruth had to take Nick to see the emergency vet last night as he was in considerable discomfort with his leg. They gave him some pain relief and advised us to take him to our own vet this morning. Fortunately he seemed a little better and was able to walk on it. He was a really good boy at the vets met a former Daybreaks resident, Sally and a Labrador and was the perfect gentleman with them both. :) He now has more pain relief and has a review appointment in a couple of weeks.....He isn't able to go for walks so won't be very impressed!! :((

Lovely little Sky went home today. Do hope all goes well for her and her new Mom and Dad. Xx

Don't forget our 12th Birthday party on Sunday! :)))

Yesterday was nuts - and that is putting it politely!!! It was great to see Kate back and throw her back in at the deep end! I left at 2pm to head to Rugby, firstly to pick up some bottles for our open day drinks hamper, then onto destination 2 to check on Diddy and collect some donations for car booting, then destination 3 to check on Ray/Jay who was homed last week. We took Foxy with us and we came back with a van full of goodies.

Today has been very quiet... think it might be something to do with the football!!!! I am nursing a poorly Nick who developed a limp this morning and a swelling has appeared on the back of his wrist. He is extremely uncomfortable and crying out but I am anxious not to whip him off to the emergency vets due to the cost..... Agggghhhhh :-((((

What a lovely warm and sunny day today. Very quiet for volunteers, so we chained Ruth to the office and phone!!lol, whilst James and I did all the morning walks down the very shady lane. It was actually very pleasant indeed and I enjoyed the walks - just wonder how far in total I have walked today!! You can't beat being out in the fresh air getting some exercise in the company of these beauties.

After walks I decided to strip and spring clean the back kitchen kennel. Nick had been using the kitchen run during the morning as he is much happier seeing what is happening around him and interacting with you. Well, he decided to be very "helpy" as I was trying to get a clean cover on the duvet - jumping up onto the bed and sitting down on the cover - then looking at me as if to say "well, this is a bit flat and hard!!" He is very inquisitive and very intelligent, the training Ruth has been doing with him is really showing results. She took him to visit the chickens again this afternoon and after an initial show of interest he responded well and came straight away when called. He is doing so well - just needs his chance on his own sofa now.

Our new arrivals Shamus and Maggie are lovely - especially the dainty little Maggie who was as bright as a button today following her spey. Her tail goes round like a propeller, and she so reminds me of the lovely Vera both in looks and temperament.

Ruth had a dash to the Vets this afternoon with Saddle, who came back in from his play in the sand run with blood coming from his mouth. His poor gums are in a bit of a state and he has a course of antibiotics to help, hopefully he will be feeling better very soon.

I did some health checks this afternoon and must say the boys and girls were excellent whilst being weighed, having teeth cleaned and nails clipped. Sully was especially helpful by walking into the treatment room and standing straight on the scales!!

We had a visit from Rory and his new Dad, who has decided he needs more nail clipping practice! and Sid's family came to visit him again and spend more time with him.

Well, yet another weekend is upon us. I know that some of those red signs will be turning green and I am keeping fingers crossed that some new red signs appear.

Have a great weekend one and all

Angie
xx

Thank goodness I don't watch Emmerdale religiously as by the time I finished at the kennels yesterday the end credits were playing... ha ha - it was a looooonnnnggg very busy day but productive!

Maggie was speyed and we had visits from many people including the new owners of Seren who took her in the sand run and Sid's new owners where we did some lead training as the big handsome fella pulls on his lead sometimes. We also worked with Eric who is going to be adopted directly from his racing owners who also needed some lessons on how to not pull on the lead.... all owners did really well and responded to their training ;-)

Massive thanks go to Simon who spent several hours putting up the sand run fence security bars to increase the safety for those using the run and in return I did Bo and Amber's nails - I think I got the easier end of the deal!

It has been really busy day today so far with just myself, Angie and James but I am off to the vets in a bit with Mr Saddle who has got sore gums and I think a course of antibiotics will do the trick!

Rory's dad has just been to visit and to practice clipping nails with a view to buying some.... erm..... he decided not to buy clippers after all after his attempt and Rory had a treat after I had finished rinsing the blood away!!!!

Come back Kate soon...... I'm missing you and would quite like a day off!!!!! :-) xxx

A great photo of Saddle, Roy and our French girls. They really were very nice and worked very hard! I do hope they enjoyed their time with us and I'm so sorry my French was so rubbish! Xxx

Lovely photo of Saddle & Roy with the French Students, really wish these boys had a home to call their own xxxxxxx

We have cool coats in stock due to demand. RRP is £56 but we are selling them for £45. If you would like one, please let me know!

We are saying goodbye to our three French students Tifenn, Manuella and Lauraline today who have been with us since the 28th May. They are pictured with Roy and Saddle in the sand run who they love playing with. They have been a pleasure to have and we wish them well.

I am off to the vets this morning with Sky to have her bloods re-checked following her bleed a few weeks ago. I did her home visit last Wednesday evening and she is going to live on a canal boat with a cat and is off to her home next week.

Yesterday I met Seren's new owners when they came to take her for a walk and we signed all the paperwork in preparation for her going off to her new home on Saturday - exciting!!!

I am appealing for anyone with a drill and a couple of hours spare!!!!!! I have purchased angled brackets to add to each post in the sand run to increase the security for the dogs (so we have no escapees over the 6 foot fence (we have had one!!!) so if you can help, please give me a call ASAP!!!! Many thanks - Ruth 0121 782 7702.

Mr Creosote is fine but we will skip the bucket and cleaning lady bit! So many lovely hounds at the moment and all such characters :-D xx

Hey what about an "eat off" with Nick and our Finn as a fund raiser lol I think Nick might need to train up to Finn's level of gluttony though. I sometimes think he wouldn't recognize my face as he only ever looks at my hands to see if I have anything in them for him to eat ! Even when he is wagging his tail at me as I come into the room my hands are the focus of his eyes. Last week he had his dinner (or two) and then I found him in the garden crunching up a coconut shell the squirrel had dropped with great joy, no doubt his version of a "wafer thin mint" lol

I think Nick should be called Mr Creosote from now on.

I have been already doing some training with naughty pants Nick this morning.... he is one heck of a food monster and even with a slow feeder bowl he is an animal! So he has joined me in the kitchen this morning and to start with, he constantly had his paws up on the counters - well who wouldn't?! It was so exciting for him!!! It turned into an 'all-you-can-eat' breakfast - as his bowl has emptied, it was re-filled.... and then, eventually he just stood and looked at me! For those Monty Python fans out there - 'wafer thin mint' springs to mind!!!!

Yesterday evening, I was invited over to view a kitchen that is being updated and I am excited to say, it will be installed into our kitchen at Daybreaks in the next few months - we will be going up in the world with fabulous updated worktops, cupboards etc etc! It was a good end to a very sad day because of various reasons.

Right, it's time for a coffee.......

Today has brought several pieces of very heartbreaking news and it reminds me how lucky I am to be healthy and also to make the most of my gorgeous Foxy....

So awesome to see little Winny off to a new home today :-)
We have had a great day with 2 new arrivals, lots of people using the sand run and visiting and more donations of bottles for our open day and...... the kennel blocks have new drain covers!!!!! Ha ha - most of you who know me know I really am very excited over things like this!!!! The metal ones were getting tired and we have black plastic covers which look really quite smart!!!! ;-)

Brilliant to see Sid reserved today. :). He is a very handsome and happy lad.

Molly came for a visit and a bath :) Thanks so much to her new family for giving her a lovely home. Xxx

Elsa (Tiny) came in too. She modelled a few coats for us and decided on a very smart red raincoat. Xx

Thanks to Mary and John for the bottles to add to the bottle hamper for the Birthday Party on the 1st July. :))

The new photos of the Daybreaks residents are great! Thanks to Sara for taking them. :)

Xxx

Another early start to the Daybreaks day saw Ruth off to the Vet to take Bounty and Eillie to be speyed.

It was a lovely warm day and the boys & girls were able to go out on walks both this morning and this afternoon.

It was a big day for Susie - Ruth removed the stitches from the wound on her face which has healed nicely, and then her new family arrived to sign on the dotted line and take her off to her new forever home.

Although we are all delighted she has a lovely new home, there were a few tears shed as this special little lady left the premises. Wishing her and her new family many happy years ahead.

Skip found himself the next lucky hound to start a new life today. The family that came to view instantly fell for him and so did their existing Greyhound. We always say that it's the dog that really chooses their family and in Skip's case it was so true. Other boys were looked at, but none had that instant bond with both dog & people.

As we walked back to the kennels from the sand run after the meet & greet, Skip jumped into the family's open van and was very reluctant to get out! I think the deal was sealed at this point! Wishing them all a great new life together.

I left a line of washing drying in the afternoon sun - but looking out of the window as I type this I am hoping those ominous black clouds keep on the move and don't deposit their load over the kennels!

It's the weekend again, where is the time going to? I'll sign off with my usual weekend wish of more red signs for our beautiful boys & girls.

Angie
xx

A massive thank you to Burns... a fabulous pallet of sponsorship food arrived in Wednesday - we are so lucky to be supported by Burns and their continuous telephone support on the nutrition helpline too.

Seeing Seren reserved today was the very best news! :) A lovely family came along and fell in love with her. :)))). I know Lorraine will be very happy with Seren's choice. Xx

We had a lot of helpers today :). So all the dogs enjoyed morning and afternoon walks. There were several visitors at the kennels when Sully came back from his walk and he made a point of introducing himself to everyone. :) He is a really great lad!

It was a lovely warm and sunny day and we have our fingers crossed we get the same on Sunday 1st July, Daybreaks 12th Birthday Party. Please come along and help us to celebrate. :) We are hoping to have a nice big "booze" hamper for a raffle prize so would be so grateful if anyone can spare a bottle of something to add to the basket! If you do please just drop it in to the kennels. Thanks so much. :)))

Xxx

I do love a failed foster story. So pleased for you Buddy, and for your brother's and your lovely new failure family(in the best way of course). Do so love a happy ending. X

Busy busy day and a fabulous end with Brandy's failed foster parents signing the adoption forms!!!! He has a new name Buddy and he is pictured with his new greyhound brothers Sonny and Aston xxxxx

A really busy day today! The Pet Blood Bank came for the day to take donations from the kennel dogs and pet dogs. Well done to Horse, Petal, Sully and Jingle who all became blood donors. They have a bandana, collar tag and certificate to take with them when they go off to their forever homes. Xx

It was great to see lots of previous Daybreaks residents come in to help the cause too. Welcome to new donors including the lovely Ashley and Carla. I think there were sixteen donations today which is brilliant. Every donation taken can help save the life of up to four other dogs.

My lad Fletcher gave blood for the 5th time today and got a special gift and an extra helping of Chappie! :)

If you are interested in your Greyhound becoming a Blood donor please contact the Pet Blood Bank on 01509 232 222

Xxx

Ruth took Sid and Skip to be neutered this morning. Poor Skip was so very sleepy when he came back this afternoon. We had to carry him back to his kennel in a duvet. Do hope he will feel much better after a good nights sleep. Xx

Sky also went to see the vet for a check up. Thankfully all seems ok with her and nothing serious to worry about. :))

We left tonight leaving two of our new girls paired together in the kitchen kennel and run. They were a little unsettled last night. I have just checked them on the cameras and they are snuggled up together. :)

Xxx

Hope sky is ok! They are such worries. But I love how you call them ' the kids'...That's the 1st thing always say to my husband if he's home and I'm not...how's the kids? ! Xxx

HELP PLEASE! We are building an extension for our on site cat lounge and wondered if you have any of the following you could donate.... even if it is a couple of bricks etc.... it will all help. If you have, please call Ruth on 0121 782 7702 between 10am and 6pm
Concrete blocks
Red engineering bricks
Building sand
Cement
Ballast
Timber - 3 x 3, 4 x 2 and 6 x 2
Plywood - 12mm 8 x 4
Roofing felt
Polycarbonate roof panels

Thank you so much - Socks and Tyke will love you!

It was an early start yesterday to get all the Daybreaks kids fed and cleaned so they could go out to the walk at Brueton Park. It was a strange feeling having all the inmates out but they had a great time and it resulted in Mr Brandy going out to foster following the walk!

Still on site to keep us company was Susie who had fun wandering around the kennels with Foxy whilst we attacked the cobwebs, blitzed the kitchen and other tasks.

It all went nuts as soon as the kids started to return from their walk and at the same time we had the 3 new arrivals who needed to be bathed, photographed and settled in.

I popped up late on the evening to check on the newbies and to remove their food bowls and this is when I found blood all over the floor of Sky's kennel..... her temperature was fine and whilst in the run she toileted again a large amount of blood. I therefore took her home and kept a close eye on her last night.

Many years ago whilst on holiday one of my greys did a wee which looked just like pure blood. Not being a worrier at all I immediately thought she had ruptured something and was going to DIE!!!! Now.... many years of experience under my belt, I am guessing firstly (without the attempt to panic) it is a UTI and therefore a sample taken this morning was taken to the vets when I dropped off Sid and Skip for their castrates. The sample was checked and due to the intensity of blood in her urine she has an appointment this afternoon to be checked over..... better to be safe than sorry. We will keep you posted.... coffee time I think..... :-)

I had the pleasure of bringing a couple of past Daybreaks residents to the kennels for a pamper session with Jess today. Steffie and Bobby are both very handsome black lads and it was brilliant to see how happy they are and how much their respective owners love them. Homes such as theirs are what we dream of for every retired Greyhound. Xxx

Sid and Brandy both had a day out from kennels today and went to help at the Leamington Spa Roadshow with Shirley, Richard and Norman. They both had a great time and were brilliant ambassadors for the rest of the kennel residents. They were both very tired and ready for their dinner when they came back this afternoon. :)

Skip arrived at the kennels this morning. He had a bath and a photo shoot with our other new arrival to the kennels, Jo! Hope we didn't put you off today! :)) Skip went out for his first walk this afternoon. He is a happy lad and very friendly. Xx

Little Tiny went home and now has a new name, Elsa :)) She was such a good girl and enjoyed trying on new coats :) Wishing her a very happy new life. Xx

During Elsa's homing a lovely family arrived to look for a playmate for their existing Greyhound. It was a difficult decision as their lad is so sweet and got on with everyone but they finally decided to offer Susie a great new life with them! Thanks so much to them for their patience today as it was really busy...they just got on with all the meet and greets :))

It was great to see recently home Duke and his owner, he is a very happy lad and looked so good. x

Thanks to Adam and Amy for walking all the dogs this afternoon and to Sara for balancing food bowls whilst still on crutches! :))

Xxx

Sounds like a great day at Daybreaks, hounds off to new homes and bookings for the weekend, fingers crossed. Think maybe a "Home one, get one free" weekend may be a success, Grey's are used to a kennel mate so makes good sense LOL. Finlay and Nina are off to the seaside for a few days to our place in Bude. As soon as he saw their beds and bag of treats loaded into people (hound) carrier he suddenly became enthusiastic. Think he will like the break. Nina loves it there.He is quite chilled at the moment as spent a long time today on the patio fixated on obtaining one of the coconuts filled with fat hanging on the fence for the blue tits. Looked like he was meditating,and lining up his chakras !!! Pity he reverted to his keen hound mode when the squirrel came a calling along the fence, scattered his meridians straight away lol

Another busy, busy day at Daybreaks today.

I took the lovely Brandy to the Vets this morning for his vaccination, leaving Ruth ensconced in the office to do the first of today's trio of homings!

I only just had time to say hello to Oscar before his new Mum and Greyhound sister came to see him and take him home.

It was Ray's turn next to vacate his kennel and start his new life - he has a lovely new name too, Jay.

I did let Ruth out of the office at lunchtime to have a walk round in the fresh air, lol!!! but then it was back to it, as it was Rory's turn to take the first steps to his new life. I managed to have some very lovely cuddles with him before his new Dad whisked him off, looking very handsome in his Batman collar and coordinating yellow muzzle.

Wishing all our newly homed hounds and their families many happy years ahead.

Susie spent the day in the kitchen with Foxy, she is healing well and is still her playful, happy self. She is such a sweetheart, who does like to lie in the most inconvenient of places!! She was blocking the kitchen door with her legs and had her bum under the fire extinguisher!! Still, she was comfy. xx

Lots of help today meant the boys & girls had 2 walks and some playtime in the run too.

A big thank you for the generous donations of duvets and bedding today, most welcome.

Another weekend is upon us, and there are some more viewings booked so fingers crossed the red sign trend continues.

It is the Great Global Greyhound Walk on Sunday and some of our residents will be taking part in the walk through Brueton Park, hopefully raising awareness of what amazing pets this beautiful breed make and maybe generating some interest and a new home or two.

Happy weekend one and all.

Angie xx

What absolutely glorious weather today!!! The French students continued their fabulous work with Brandy - I am sure they will go back with great stories about how they removed black heads from a greyhounds underside!!!!! Photos have been added!!!

Susie went for a walk this morning with the volunteers and then spent the afternoon at mine and each time we popped down to peak through the window to see what she was up to..... she was checking the back of her eyelids! She is such a chilled out lass - I still can't believe how different she was to the personality she displayed at the kennels. I will add photos of her also - she is healing well and soooo good!

Apologies for no update yesterday - it was a busy day and yesterday evening was taken up with rehearsals for our show in November!
I was over the moon to have Rory and Sky reserved and to see Molly off to her new home.
Our French Students have been working well with all the dogs and undertake the health checks, stitch removals and even managed to clip Foxy's nails!!!!
I still have Susie at home with me and what a dream she is! She is totally different to how she is at the kennels - quiet, calm, relaxed and just such a joy to have. She is healing well and will have her stitches removed the end of next week. If you think you would like to foster her until she is healed, or would consider giving this amazing little girl a home - you won't regret it! Give the kennels a call.... what are you waiting for?! Ruth x

Tiny went off to the vets first thing this morning for her neutering operation. She was such a good girl in the car and was very interested in everything around her. She sat like a "real" dog to look out of the window :) She was a little quieter when I picked her up this afternoon. Bless her. Xx

Ruth popped in with Susie, her beautiful little face has some very fetching purple stitches! She really is a super girl....I'm sure there must be someone who has space on their sofa for a very pretty and lovely girl! Xx

Stella went home today! :) She was such a patient girl while we sorted out her paperwork and when it was time to get in the car, she couldn't get in quick enough! Really hope all goes well for her and her great new family. :)

Xxx

What an emotional few days it has been with the loss of many of our precious greys..... it was truly emotional when I went out to Helen and Andy to fetch their precious Shaun - he looked so very peaceful and although an immense shock - what a way to go..... to lay down in the garden where you are happy and pass away.....

Yesterday afternoon I sadly had to get Susie to the vets as an emergency - she was bitten by her kennel mate sadly whilst playing. For those with a strong stomach, there are photos. The bite just missed her eye and the main artery in her face so it could have been a lot worse. The vet bill for this was £640 - so if you think you could help towards it, please click the donation button - we are so grateful for any help towards this.

Susie therefore came home with me...... most of you will know that she is one of our resident diva's! She doesn't sell herself as she barks and bosses her kennel mates and can come across as a proper grump! She is TOTALLY DIFFERENT outside of a kennel! She has been playing with toys, been clean overnight and has settled really well. I guess as I haven't got a spare kennel to put her in as we are absolutely full to bursting, she will be stopping with me until she gets a home. She gets my hug today! Ruth xx

Jill and Paul, I am so sorry to hear about Bobby. Each one is so special and so precious. I am thinking of you, Carol and Moe xx

Keeping Jill and Paul and Shaun's family in our thoughts and prayers. Xxx

Oh Jill and Paul, I am so sorry, I did not know your gorgeous Bobby had crossed the bridge. Thinking of you. Jo. Xxxx

It certainly was Jill I was so glad to be a part of it and walk in Bobbys name.
As usual greys were impeccabley behaved
X

What a pleasure it was today to walk through Birmingham city centre with other volunteers from Solihull and Hall Green. It was the lift I needed after losing my darling Bobby on Wednesday.

Well today some of our volunteers and dogs joined Hall Green Branch and walked in a Greyhound Parade in Birmingham City Centre on behalf of "Greyhound Day" .. With Jill & Paul's, rainbow bridge Bobby being remembered. Please see link below for the live video. X

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1542934415829335&id=135199229936201

Many congratulations Jo! Sending lots of love. Florence and Klaire xxx

Well done on your new job jo! Xxx

What a contrast from last Friday - we had to get the cool coats out for the Greys and we've all been perspiring somewhat!!!

Ruth had an early start taking Ray off to the Vets for his castrate. Many thanks to Rosie for picking him up this afternoon and returning a rather wobbly boy back to the kennels in time for his dinner.

Our 3 lovely French students have slotted right into the kennels routine and happily get on with any task that needs doing. They were also keen observers as Ruth removed a corn from a visiting Grey, and removed Sully's stitches. I have been trying to dredge up my O Level French from the depths of my memory! and the girls are also practising their English, so between us we manage to be understood!

Thanks to Norman who took the gorgeous Sid out on a trip to the park this morning - he gave him a good report and it was good for Sid to have a change of scene. During the morning the lovely Winny was sadly returned, so Norman and his grandson kindly took her out to the park as well . She too had a glowing report so lets hope she is soon back out on her very own sofa.

We are full to bursting with gorgeous Greys at the minute, there are some viewings booked for the weekend so fingers crossed that they will result in some red signs.

I'm delighted for Jo, our new Assistant Manager, and am looking forward to welcoming her to the kennels.

After a busy and warm day, I'm now going to put my feet up with a glass of chilled white wine - have a great weekend one and all.

Angie xx

Congratulation Jo, what a fabulous job to have, good luck and we'll done xx

Welcome to the team x

I am very sorry it has taken me a couple of days to put on a post, but I am still reeling and in shock and almost speechless from the shock of being given the opportunity of becoming a member of the Daybreaks team. I am really so very excited and extremely honored to have been chosen. I would like to say a huge thanks to Ruth, Kate and Pam for believing in me. Can't wait to start. See you all soon. Thanks again. Jo xx

A very busy day....The very handsome Ray arrived this morning and found himself reserved just a couple of hours later! :) His trainer called to check how he was doing this afternoon and was so happy to hear Ray has hopefully found his forever home so quickly. x

The Canine Massage Therapy Group were with us for the day. I saw them at work on Sid, he looked very relaxed and was obviously enjoying himself!

Ruth was kept busy with several clients needing corns looking at!

Sara came in today and was able to take the new photos of our current residents. Thank you. Xx

Thank you to those who gave a donation of duvets, towels and Pilchards.

Thank you to everyone for their help today...it was great to see Gail back at the kennels after her recent house move! :) Xx

Alan, thanks so much for the Thursday doughnuts! Xx

Xxx

It will be great to have Jo join us all at the kennels. :)) Xxx

We have exciting news that following interviews yesterday I am pleased to say that Jo will be joining myself and Kate as assistant manager at the beginning of July. Most of you will know Jo who is the owner of greyhounds and we look forward working with her :-)

We had a lot of help today so everyone got to go out for nice long walks.

Brandy enjoyed a lovely grooming session with Clive one of our volunteers this morning. Brandy adored all the extra attention and would have happily stayed with Clive all day. He just loves company. Xx

Sky is still a nervous little girl, but she ate better today. :)

Declan came in today so we had no trouble taking Horsey out for his walks! :))

Our French students carried out health checks on some of the dogs this afternoon. Rory thought it was great to have three lovely young ladies giving him all their attention! :))

Thanks to everyone for their help today.

Xxx

We had a new arrival this morning. A very pretty girl called Tiny. She is a happy girl and so friendly. Bella gave her a bath, she had a spot of lunch and then settled into her kennel for a snooze. :)

Brilliant to see Ashley again today. He was such a good boy while waiting for his new Mom and Dad to sign his adoption paperwork. :) Thanks again to Myra and Alan for giving him a lovely new home. Xx

We have three French students helping at the kennels for the next four weeks. It was their first day today. Ruth got them involved with helping with nail cutting and bathings this morning and this afternoon they helped with the walks and feeding. Many thanks to Bella for looking after them and trying out her French....! :)

Thank you to everyone who came in on a Bank Holiday to help look after our super boys and girls.

Xxx

Well what a funny day... Andy got in early as some of our residents were a little worried about the thunder... So by the time I got in, top block was nearly clean....
Whilst Andy went to check on the fur boss, Foxy and crew, I carried on cleaning..
It was then time to get ready for the Brueton Walk, with 6 of our residents (one of which was our current longest stayer Rory) getting there feet ready for a lovely hour walk... All behaved extremely well with Roy and Saddle not reacting much at all to small dogs running loose, well done Jess, you really are a calming influence on them.
The residents left at the kennels all went on a lovely walk and had grooms afterwards.
On our return, all hounds were happy of a lie down, surprisingly that also included Saddle and Roy who decided that Andy needed to go give them a cuddle so they could go to sleep across his lap...
Due to the weather, we couldn't do afternoon walks but managed to give them some time in the run.....
After dinner all the residents happily went straight to sleep, here's hoping the thunder stays away, so Ruth and Andy don't have to calm 16 stressed dogs down... Poor babies, it isn't nice seeing them like that.
Sleep tight all, hope everyone gets a rest full sleep. X

A damp morning which changed into a very pleasent afternoon. :)

Shirley came in to tidy up the plants in the kennels, she got distracted several times by a certain young man call Brandy who was sitting out in one of the runs. After a lovely groom she took him into the sand run for a play. :) Needless to say she didn't get her planting finished!

Thanks to everyone who came in to help today. :))

It was great to see Seren/Jingle today. She is such a sweet girl. It you would like to meet her or any of our fabulous boys and girls please pop into the kennels.

If anyone is looking for the boomerang that was in the sand run, I have a confession to make...I threw it and sadly it didn't come back! I will go and look for it on the other side of the fence next week, sorry! :)

Xxx

Where did that day come from?!?!?! The rain was of monsoon proportions and we got drenched cleaning and feeding this morning. Ruth then battled the traffic and downpours to take little Sky off to the Vets to be speyed.

The rain deterred visitors and volunteers alike, so thanks to James for braving the elements to help us out today. Even if there had been plenty of bodies today, there was no way the doggies were going out on walks - so we did plenty of grooming and health checks and generally spending quality time with the boys & girls. Sadly it was too wet and chilly for Brandy & Stella to take up their usual positions in the runs - poor Brandy really doesn't like being in his kennel and says he would prefer a big, comfy sofa please!

There was a brief respite from the rain for a couple of hours this afternoon, so all the Greys had some play time in the sand run, all except Rory who had a poorly paw. Susie is such a playful girl who loves to throw the toys around and chase them, Horse also has great fun chasing after the toys. Brandy had a lovely play in the run and was as good as gold coming when called when his turn was over, he obviously thrives on human company.

I washed all their feet after they had finished in the run with some lovely warm water, and I suspect they enjoyed that almost as much as they did playtime! They just love to lean and have a fuss, bless them.

This afternoon saw the lovely Biza off to her new home with a lovely big brother for company. Wishing them all many happy times ahead.

During feeding time this afternoon the gorgeous Sid arrived from his trainer's kennels. My what a stunner he is, he bounced through the gate, polished off 2 bowls of dinner and wagged his tail a lot!! He is a huge handsome brindle boy who seems very friendly.

We looked at Rory's paw after we had closed and Ruth dug a huge piece of grit out of his pad - no wonder the poor boy was limping! He was a very brave boy during the procedure and enjoyed his treats afterwards.

Another weekend is upon us and I sincerely hope the weather improves in time for the walk in Brueton Park on Sunday.

Have a great Bank Holiday one and all.

Angie xx

Congratulations to Alan who won £60 on our Daybreaks Lottery!!!!

Brandy spent most of today in one of the runs. He was quite settled and watched all that was going on from a nice cosy bed. He had another session in the Magnotheraoy unit this morning, which seemed to help calm him. He was very quiet when we left him this afternoon. He does like to be around people. :)

In the run next to him was little Stella. She also had a comfy bed from which to watch the world go by. :)

Horsey walked really well on his walk today....we have decided our young work experience lad, Declan should take him home as Horse was happy to walk with him without stopping! :))

Thank you so much to everyone for their help with looking after our fabulous doggies today. Ellie once again showed us that you can't leave anything edible around not even for a second where she is concerned...twice she tried her luck with the lovely homemade cake Lucy had brought in :))

Xxx

What a warm day! My heart goes out to Brandy who is still quite stressed. In between spending time in the run and having the volunteers groom him, today he spent a period in the magnotherapy unit and it seemed to settle him but in his kennel he is quite stressed. We have tried to pair him with several kennel mates but it is not working..... we are desperate for a foster home for this very loving boy who just needs a bit of TLC and hopefully a sample of home life and assessment would help him find his forever home. If you think you could help.... please call us at the kennels.

Stella had a few lumps on her head so today I set to with a needle and cleared them! She is settling so well but unfortunately this morning there was blood on her bed = she has come into season agggghhhhhh!!!!! Her spey booked for Friday has therefore been transferred to Sky, one of the new arrivals from the weekend.

I took Sky to the vets today for her vaccination and she met a parrot in the waiting room as well as a small fluffy and she didn't react to either. She is adorable albeit a bit nervous so we are going to give her a couple more days to settle and then see how she reacts to the cats. She travelled well in the van and is very very clean in her kennel.

I have added some photos from yesterday from the Blythe Valley employee walk!

We are getting so close to being able to complete the final section of our sand run! If you would like to make a donation - I am so grateful.... just log on to the link: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rainbowbridgers

Our Daybreaks Lottery sheet is nearly complete! We have just 9 numbers left before we do the draw - if you would like to be in with a chance of winning £60, please give us a call - you can pay over the phone by card or pop into the kennels.... as soon as the numbers are all taken, the draw will be done!

Ruth and Norman took Saddle, Roy, Susie, Rory, Biza and Nick to Blythe Valley Business Park today for lunchtime walks with some of the employees. I believe it was part of a keep fit at work exercise. It was a warm day so all came back rather hot and tired, including Ruth and Norman! All the dogs seemed to have enjoyed themselves, nice for them to have a change of scene.

As there were only a few dogs left to walk back at the kennels they had an extra long walk. Horsey seemed to enjoy the walk as it was a circular route and he didn't have to turn back to return to Daybreaks, bless him!

Brilliant news for Tony, now called Finlay. Once again a big thank you to his new family for failing miserably and joining the FFP club! :))

Lucy was back helping at the kennels after being poorly with Pneumonia, it was so good to have her and lovely Ellie back. Had forgotten what a food maniac Ellie is!! :)) Great to see Sara and Louis again today too.

Thanks so much to everyone for their help today.

Xxx

We had lots of lovely helpers today :)) Thanks everyone.

Ruth and Shirley took for his neutering operation and Stella for her vaccination booster first thing this morning. Stella is a really lovely girl. :) Brandy was very lively on his return to the kennels and really enjoyed his dinner! :))

New girls Biza and Sky are very pretty, they are both getting used to their new surroundings. They were a little nervous of the heavy traffic on the Coventry Road when they went out for walks.

Lorna bathed a beautiful Golden Retriever this afternoon, very hairy compared to her usual Greyhound clients! :))

Many thanks to the visitors who came along to the kennels with donations of bedding today, very kind of you. x

Xxx

Oh WOW!!!!! What a Day! I started at 7am to get the inmates out for a early morning toilet session... it stops the twins - Roy and Saddle toileting and then dancing in it! They had a great time in the sand run - such a joy to see them play and run so happily.... I absolutely adore 'my boys'.....

Winnie and Annie went off to their new homes and with the canine massage team teaching in the sand run this meant all the the kennel dogs alternated with both a massage session or a walk.

Elizabeth kindly took Saddle to the park for some training whilst Roy had a massage - he loved it!

It was a busy day with lots of nail trimming and a few corn removals and then we had the arrival of Sky and Biza - OMG - beautiful girls.....

My Foxy boy also had a session with the canine massage team and he is currently crashed out in the office bless him!!!!

I think my stack of paperwork to attack is going to remain on the floor until tomorrow......

I have had an absolutely fantastic day - when the kennels are so busy it is a wonderful feeling. Massive thanks to all the volunteers and our supporters.... you are all wonderful xxx

So sorry for the delay in the diary update...fell asleep on the sofa and have been woken up by Fletcher's snoring! :))

A quiet morning, sure it was due to a wedding going on somewhere! However our two lovely Duke of Edinburgh lads were happy to come to the kennels to walk the dogs...they were certainly not intested in watching Harry and Megan walk down the aisle! :) Wouldn't it be great if we could get the Happy couple to adopt a Greyhound or two!!

Susie, Rory and my little Lyra went off to Melbicks to help with a roadshow for the morning with Jill, Paul, Sarah and Steve. It was Puppy Class day and I was told they all did really well with the many different breeds of dogs around. :) If you are interested in helping out at roadshows please give us a call at the kennels 0121 782 7702 for more information.

Fantastic news for Ashley! Thanks you so much to Myra and Alan for offering him a wonderful new home with them. We really must get those FFP t-shirts sorted or have an annual FFP Day!

We had a visit from Jack and his lovely family this morning. Jack had a good time in the run, but not so happy about having his nails trimmed. Xx He looked great and it was obvious how much he is loved. :)

We are expecting two new arrivals tomorrow. Sadly our waiting list grows ever longer, we have over SEVENTY Greyhounds now waiting to come into the kennels, please, please consider giving a home to one our beautiful boys and girls. Xx

Wishing Ruth a very happy Birthday for today and to Jess whose Birthdsy was earlier in the week. :)))

Xxx

What a nice day that was - cleaning and feeding was done in a trice thanks to Richard & Shirley and the early arrival of volunteers from HSBC.

Plenty of help meant morning and afternoon walks, as well as health checks, grooming and playing - our boys & girls were well and truly spoiled today!!

It was great to see the change in the lovely Stella since her arrival last week - she is a happy, friendly girl and I'm so happy she has been reserved already.

Seren spent the day in the office, what a treasure she is, she is such a pretty little girl and so good.

With so much help I was able to tackle the drains and gulleys in the kennel blocks. It is very satisfying to have a real good spring clean and leave everything fresh and smelling of relaxing lavender (yes, perhaps I am just a little bit strange, lol!!!).

Brandy & Petal seem to be getting on fine, although he is still a little stressed. Hopefully with time he will relax and realise all is well and he's in a safe place.

Was good to see Ruth this morning, although she is still in considerable pain - I finally persuaded her to go home this afternoon and try to rest, not easy when you're in pain, here's hoping she starts to feel much better soon.

Well yet another week has flown by, I really don't know where the time is going! There are viewings booked for the weekend, so keep your fingers crossed.

Enjoy your weekend everyone.

Angie xx

I do hope that both Foxy and Ruth are feeling better soon. Thinking of you. xxx

A busy day....with lots of help we made good time with feeding and cleaning. :) Even had time for tea (hot chocolate for me!) before walks!

Sue popped in with her gorgeous Deerhound Lizzie. Our first walkers were just returning to the kennels, so we took the opportunity to do a little meet and greet with Lizzie. She is such a calm and gentle girl, met all our residents one by one. They were all great with her with only Petal reacting. She was quite apprehensive, but with some help from Ruth was soon responding well. :))

Brandy has been quite stressed since his arrival with us. We have paired him up with Petal tonight to see if having the company of a pretty girl will help him. :)

A lovely couple came to meet the dogs this afternoon and fell in love with Stella. :) Such brilliant news for her! She is a tremendous little girl. :))

Sending big hugs to Foxy. We all know how it feels when our babies are not well. Xxx

Thanks to everyone who helped out today. Sara and Louis came in again :) Lyra sends her apologies for disembowelling Louis's new toy!!

Xxx

Poor Foxy and you Ruth
Lots of love
Xxxx

Ruth, so sorry to hear Foxy is unwell and pray that he receives all the care he needs to make a recovery. The same goes for you my love, you really must rest!
To Seren - you are loved and a new forever sofa will come soon. To your mom, I hope the cause of Daisy's aggression can be found and sorted.
To everyone who has lost their special furry friend recently, you gave them all the love in the world and they gave it back to you. You are the heroes of greyhound rescue along with all the staff and volunteers at Daybreaks. Xxx

Hope foxy is ok, but couldn't be in better hands than with a mommy like you! Xxx

Keeping my fingers crossed for a positive outcome for Foxy, it's heartbreaking when our babies are not well, hopefully a forever home will come along soon for Seren bless her xxx

I had a really busy day yesterday at the kennels with the Wednesday crew however I did manage to escape for a couple of hours to have a lovely treat lunch with Pam (Maisie and Monty's mum) and take Foxy to the vets. He is sadly struggling at the moment and he has had blood tests and I am taking a urine sample in later as Christian thinks he has kidney problems as well as his worsening back problems.... it is breaking my heart.

Also making me tearful was the return of Seren yesterday evening. I feel so sad for her family who are in a very difficult situation but I reassured them that Seren would not be staying in a kennel but at mine. She is such a beautiful girl - an absolute spitting image of Wispa my precious who I lost in 2015. I am appealing for a foster home or if possible a forever home desperately for her and if you think you could help, please give us a call at the kennels on 0121 782 7702.

I am slowly getting better but work beckons!!!! :-)

Huge cuddle for the lovely Belle. I do hope she's ok.xxx

Well yesterday afternoon we had a visit from Belle who was homed recently... unfortunately in a collapsed state in the back of the car!! She had been for a walk and started panting and become very lethargic. A cold towel was put over her and I took her temperature which was normal and after about half hour she was becoming a little more responsive and even ate some chicken! She was taken to the vets to be checked and we are hopeful she is doing well... I will keep you posted....

Just to allay fears with the advertisements of a post at Daybreaks, it is in addition to myself and Kate :-)

This morning I took the twins into the run and I have been teaching Saddle the 'wait' command..... he is doing fantastic and it stops his circling. I also took Stella into the run - she is in the isolation kennel away from the Daybreaks greys due to a cough she has. This appears to just happen when she has a lead on or is held by her collar so we have a harness to prevent this. She is immaculately clean every morning and absolutely loves the run. I had feedback from the greyhound board that her previous owner was not able to be contacted..... anyhow - whatever has happened..... she is in safe hands now and we hope she can find a great home soon. She is off to the vets next week for the second part of her vaccination and then her spey is to be arranged.

I am attacking the paperwork pile from home today whilst I keep popping the pills and hope to be back to 100% very soon - thanks for all the messages I have been receiving x

It was a beautiful day again today. :)

Rosie took Nick and Sully off to the vets first thing for their neutering operations. They were both quite wobbly when they returned late this afternoon, but it didn't stop them from enjoying their evening meal. :) I had to help Sully get onto his bed; but he looked quite comfy when I checked on him before going home. Xx

As we didn't have enough Volunteers to walk the dogs this this morning, Yvonne and I took them all in the run whilst Clive gave everyone a lovely groom. They all loved the extra attention especially Molly, Saddle and Roy. I'm sure they would have stayed with Clive all day! :)

Ashley came in to visit us with Alan and Myra this afternoon. It's great to hear he is doing so well now. :)) We are so grateful to them for all the help, time and patience they are giving to him. x

Thanks to Yvonne, Adam, Alan and Myra for taking the lads and lasses for walks this afternoon. :))

Xxx

Well today was very mixed.... I was greated with happy waggy tails by Rory and Susie who were so happy.

Andy and myself cleaned kennels slightly earlier than normal, leaving Ruth to her much needed rest... She is in so much pain.... This meant we were half done by the time our younger volunteers arrived...

All dogs enjoyed morning walkies, with Susie taking up her normal position of legs in the air, on her back in the run.. She is so comical...

Then the day went quite quiet for a while, with only a few people using the run, buying food etc... Which meant we could give all the boys and girls some grooming..

The afternoon saw the unexpected homing of Petal Bloom, she was so happy to go home...
Then it was Noodle turn... Aka Nancy who's human parents decided to pick her up early... Yay... Two girls now happily in forever homes....

The afternoon also saw Saddle go off to the park for some more training... Thanks Elizabeth x

Thanks to everyone's help today.... We all hope Ruth gets well soon. X

It was great to see Sara and Louis today :)) Sara did look well! She was finally able to see the bench she bought in memory of her lovely lad Charlie. I know she is so grateful to everyone who made a donation towards it. :))

Laura brought her lovely Labrador, Arlo in again today. This time he met Nick and Rory. They were both great with him. :)

Stella is a very sweet girl. A little bewildered at the moment but she ate her breakfast and dinner and Andy gave her a bath this afternoon.

Angies painting job looks great! A coat of white paint certainly brightens things up! :)

Lovely to see Jo and Willow today. It seemed strange to see Jo with only one Greyhound on her arm! :))) We also had a visit from Gorgeous Sandy, who is now called Isla. She looked great!

Thank you so much to everyone for all your help today. Sending big hugs to Ruth and to Lucy tonight, hoping they both feel better soon. Xxx

Hi all we popped in today and met Sara who was looking so well and refreshed from her hospital stay..We had a good play with Kates greys and Lyra loved playing with the tennis ball... Soe beuatiful greys in the kennels at the moment looking for that elisive forever home....xxx

I started this morning with a loving head butt from Sully! He is such a happy boy boy but I saw stars and if you see me with a black eye... I haven’t been fighting!!! A blitz of the kennels out the back which usually holds all our bedding etc meant we could accommodate little Stella and grateful thanks to Angie wielding the paint roller. Earlier she had sloshed some disinfectant down her cleavage so she has been having fun!!!!
I’ve been feeling particularly rotten this week and tonight I’ve been diagnosed with shingles so I will be keeping a low profile until I’m a bit better:-(((

Another quiet Friday at Daybreaks! No volunteers meant no walkies again today, but this, together with some much cooler weather, meant the boys and girls could have a romp around in the sand run!

Some, especially the new boys, just appreciated the chance to mooch around off lead and have a good old sniff at everything. Others took great delight in racing around like loons, playing with the toys and having a high old time. My current favourites Rory and Susie had such fun playing together, but were as good as gold when called when play time was over. It was so funny to see Rory trying to stay awake back in his kennel, his head kept nodding! Bless him he is such a character and the delightful Susie is so sweet -although she does like to sleep squashed up against the kennel door with her back legs in the air and her front legs thrust underneath the bars!!

We had a viewing this morning which resulted in the cute little Winny being reserved. Ruby Rebel paid us a visit this morning too, his Mum says he has settled so well and is being just perfect - he looks great.

Huge thanks to Jess for taking "the boys" (Roy & Saddle) out to the park this morning as part of their ongoing socialisation training. They also enjoyed a play in the sand run this afternoon - but we still can't wear them out!!

We have been blitzing out the back again, and I have been wielding a paint roller on the walls!! Not such a good idea as I think there is more paint on me and my t-shirt than on the walls!! You see - you need to be very flexible to work at Daybreaks!!!

This afternoon saw the arrival of sweet little Stella, who was picked up as a stray. She was understandably a little stressed on arrival but tucked into her supper of Burns and sardines and polished it all off.

Many thanks for the very kind donation of tinned fish received today, our boys and girls will certainly enjoy those in the weeks to come.

I just cant believe how quickly the time is flying by - another weekend is upon us so lets keep fingers crossed that some more of our lovely boys and girls will soon be on their very own forever sofas.

I think a glass of wine is called for now! Enjoy your weekend one and all.

Angie xx

There is a vacancy for Assistant Manager at Daybreaks Kennels

We are looking for a friendly person to join our team.
The position, which can be physically and emotionally challenging, is for 3 days a week on a variable rota which would include weekends and bank holidays.

Applicants must be able to drive, be involved with basic training and management of students and able to assist our volunteers with special needs.
A good knowledge of greyhounds and their needs is preferable.

For more information please contact
Ruth on 077606 17287

To be considered for this position, please forward your CV for the attention of Pam Dewar c/o Daybreaks Kennels by 25th May 2018

I have created Daybreaks Daily Diary as a dog so please don't think you can adopt this one! The photo is of Tara, my first greyhound when she was at the Dogs Home. The date of birth is actually the date we opened Daybreaks :-)
This means we can add comments as well as photos - I hope you think this is a good idea!!!!