Firstly, I would like to start this blog post with an update about gorgeous Bridie, our previous foster greyhound. A monumental THANK YOU to you all for your support, kind wishes and prayers! With a huge smile on my face, I can now confirm that she is living in her forever home, having been adopted by the most beautiful family, who already adore her (who wouldn’t?!). It seems that she may always have her limp; however, as she does not seem to be in any pain whatsoever, the vets have decided surgery is not necessary, at least for now, and her leg will continue to be monitored throughout her life. It was a long journey, but we got there! Finally, she has received the most spectacular happily ever after, just like she deserves…
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Now… let’s talk about Penny. This will just be a shorter write up today – setting the scene for you all about our next snooty adventure! Since beginning to volunteer at our fantastic kennels two years ago, I have always remembered noticing a black, female greyhound, who always looked too old for her years and had an “alpha” air about her, that was admittedly mildly terrifying. She is a boss dog – dominant, independent and ultimately firmly fixed into survival mode… or so she seems. Meet Penny. Formidable and slightly intimidating at first meeting, my heart would always ache somewhat when I saw her. I simply cannot describe it properly, but sometimes I will meet a noodlehorse who tugs on my heartstrings, despite myself not knowing why exactly.
On walks, she could almost pull me over, walking out of the kennels vertically in her haste! On meeting other breeds of dogs, she was deemed to not appreciate them one bit. Whilst towards her kennel mates, she always made sure that she was in charge – and they knew it! Throw in the fact that she could be rather food possessive… well, she was certainly an interesting dog. One that was overlooked by potential adopters, time after time – and, I suppose, who could really blame them? Another volunteer once summed Penny up perfectly to me: she needed to learn manners. And this was in all aspects.
After ensuring our beloved Bridie had found her forever home, I had a niggling feeling that it was time to give pretty Penny a chance. Admittedly, my husband (and many other people) thought that I was a little crazy with this idea and, fair enough, I got it – she was A LOT. But, if we all continually had this viewpoint and gave up on those creatures that needed our help most, then what sort of world would we be? (Also, I made a silent promise to Penny that we will transform her reputation, together, and prove others wrong, no matter how long it takes.)
So far, Penny has stayed with us only for a couple of nights and there is much work to be done. Thanks to the fantastic, unwavering support of the kennel manager and kennel staff, I know we will get there. But, already, do you know what I see? I see fear. I see a misunderstood dog. I see potential.
I cannot wait to see Penny’s hopeful transformation, as we teach her how to be a lady – and I know, in turn, she will teach us so much about ourselves too. Stay tuned for more Penny news in the future…
Love and snoot kisses,
Berry x
Berry's Wonder Hounds 
Ash, this post tugged on my heartstrings in so many ways. I find it awe inspiring that you see what many others don’t at first and that Jamie, Niko and yourself bend over backwards to give each of these gorgeous creatures a chance of happiness.
I’m rooting for Penny with every sinew I have and I know that if she’s got you all in her corner ‘happy ever after’ is a distinct reality for this gorgeous snoot. X
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Thank you so much for your kind comment! We just love fostering and giving these dogs a chance, especially watching them reveal their true personality. Have a wonderful time with Bridie – I couldn’t wish a better family for her! (Also, I really enjoyed how you’ve starting using greyhound terminology!)
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Ash you and Jamie are amazing at caring, teaching and loving these beautiful dogs and finding their forever homes! Just love reading your blogs!
Annette x
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Thank you for your support! I really appreciate it. We absolutely love doing it and it’s been great to share our experiences with others! X
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Come on Penny the power of love will hopefully win through 💕
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I agree! After all, there’s a home for every hound xx
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Having met Penny, she is a gorgeous, loving snoot with so much potential, I know you guys will find her forever home and she will be loved so much! Until then, she will be showered with lots of cuddles from you, Jamie and Niko and is being well looked after. Got everything crossed for Penny xx
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Thank you so much for your kind words! She loved meeting you and she’s slowly revealing her character, showing she really is quite a sociable snoot 🙂 I really appreciate your constant support and joining us for walkies with our fosters! Xx
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Ahhh lovely Penny!! I just love to hear how dogs are different out of kennels and how they can settle in- all snoots deserve a chance! X
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I totally agree with you – they all deserve a chance! And they can sometimes be completely different outside of the kennel environment. Thank you for your lovely support! X
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This is so amazing and the dogs are lucky to spend time in your loving care . With your support I’m sure Penny will soon find her forever home. So proud of you Ash and can’t wait for our next walk . Also great news that Bridie is now with such a beautiful family . X
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Thank you so much for your support and beautiful words. Yes, her forever home is definitely out there – and now the search begins! X
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Penny looks a lovely snoot and if anyone can bring out the best in her, you can. You do such a great job with these foster dogs. She looks beautiful and I know that before long Penny will have a new forever home. Go for it Penny, be the true you X
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Thank you so much for your kind comment! We really love our fostering, particularly with the dogs who have more of their own challenges. Penny’s forever home is out there – and with a bit of time and love, hopefully we will find it! X
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She is beautiful and I’m sure you will bring out her inner beauty and make it possible for her to go to a loving home and have a happy life. What you do is amazing and I have so much admiration for you.
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Thank you so much! That’s so kind of you to say and I really appreciate your support. We love helping these greyhounds – particularly the ones with more challenges. She’s blossoming day by day and I cannot wait to see her happy in her forever home!
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