Saturday, March 6, 2021

Gemma

"Wait, you're getting what?"

When I told my family that  I had decided to adopt a retired racing greyhound, the general response was that of confusion. Why would I get a greyhound? What a random and out of the blue choice, 

But I had done my research. I had been living on my own for almost two years and had just moved into a new apartment. I was ready for a dog. I was looking for a dog that would be ok in a smaller space, and wouldn't need too much exercise. Obviously I didn't have a yard, and I also had a job that would have made hours of exercise a day a challenge. And what did the internet tell me was a great dog for me? A greyhound. 

Greyhounds are the 40mph couch potatoes. A quick burst of energy, followed by hours of sleep, curled up in their favorite spot. Lucky for me, there was an adoption group nearby and I got started. Because greyhounds are used in racing, most greyhounds up for adoption aren't 8 week old puppies. I actually loved this, because it meant I didn't have to trot a puppy up and down 3 flights of stairs 10 times a day. I watched the website for dogs to become available for adoption and then one day her face showed up. 

She was smaller for a greyhound, "only" 56 pounds just about to turn 3 and they described her as a happy girl, always wagging her tail. I knew she was the one for me. And their description was almost perfect. She is the happiest of girls and that tail does a lot of wagging. But there is so much more about Gemma that I love. She is the sweetest and most gentle dog.  

She's the most well-behaved, well-tempered dog. Family has even said she's essentially just a giant stuffed animal because of how easy she is. She loves her people and I've always called her my little velcro dog because she is usually stuck right to my side or someone else's. She's quirky. Her ears can tell me how she's feeling with their ever changing positions. She's nervous and anxious about new places. And she hates to be left. 


She's a terrible guard dog but the best snuggler. She loves cheeseburgers- her favorite birthday treat. She curls up in the funniest places and would let you pet her for hours on end if you're up for it. She's patient- with toddlers that are too rough, or her new chihuahua brother with never ending energy. She's the best dog. 


"You're getting what?"- what everyone said when I first told them about Gemma. But now, every single one of them agrees- she was the best choice I could ever make. 

She's been with me through all the things over the last 7 years. She's got more grey on her face than when we first met, and she doesn't move quite as fast but she is still every bit the sweet, happy girl she was the day I picked her up and brought her home. 




This month I am linking up with "Two Writing Teachers" for a slice of life, daily writing challenge. 


12 comments:

  1. I sliced about my dog today too! I feel like I know Gemma after reading your slice. She sounds like a sweet and wonderful companion.

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  2. They are great dogs - my son and his wife adopted two together. sadly they only have one now but definitely couch potatoes lol.

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    1. They are! People are always surprised when they see how mellow she is. They're the best dogs! Thanks for stopping by!

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  3. I love, "She's a terrible guard dog but the best snuggler." And the fact that this beloved greyhound Gemma is more "grey" than three years ago but definitely part of your family. I have seen the retired greyhounds a neighbor adopts—he has three— show that flamboyant burst of speed at our school playground after dark. He pretty much confirms exactly what you've said here. Hugs to Gemma.

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    1. Three! Well I bet that's a hoot! They're funny when they get together. Gemma always gets excited when she sees other greyhounds. Thanks for visiting!

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  4. I loved learning about your dog! What a sweetie. My dog is a snuggler too -- with bursts of energy. Not a greyhound - but a kindred spirit.

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  5. She looks perfect and she is a lucky girl to have you for her 'mom'. I really enjoyed this post, Maggie! We do love our fur-babies!! xo

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    1. That is so true! They become such important members of the family. Thanks for stopping by!

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  6. Some dear friends of ours adopted not one, but two greyhounds and they are just delightful! They are so affectionate and easy going. Sounds like Gemma was perfect for you.

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    1. They do great with a buddy! Gemma always love seeing other greyhounds around. Thanks for visiting!

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  7. She is everybody's favorite : )

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  8. Awww, she is precious! I love the stuffed animal comparison and I love her. She sounds like an amazing dog. I'm so glad you found each other!

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