Greyhound Friends of North Carolina Inc.

Greyhound Friends of North Carolina Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing adoption services for retired racing greyhounds. The organization's mission is to ensure these dogs' health and welfare, educate the public about their suitability as pets, and facilitate their placement into loving homes.

History

Founded in 1993, Greyhound Friends of North Carolina Inc. originated as a satellite office of Greyhound Friends in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. Initially, the organization arranged for adopters to meet their new greyhounds at the Piedmont Triad International Airport. In 1994, it became an independent entity and partnered with a local veterinarian to board a small number of greyhounds awaiting adoption. That same year, the organization leased a kennel facility in Oak Ridge, North Carolina. However, in 2019, it transitioned to a foster-only model, closing the kennel facility to better focus on individual home assessments and care[1][2].

Operations

Greyhound Friends of North Carolina Inc. operates without a kennel, instead using a foster-only approach. This allows greyhounds to be assessed in a home environment, helping them adjust to domestic life, which includes housetraining, navigating stairs, and getting accustomed to other household features such as tile floors and television[1][2]. The organization has successfully placed over 6,500 retired racing greyhounds into loving homes since its inception[2].

Geographic Scope

While Greyhound Friends of North Carolina primarily focuses on placements within North Carolina and upstate South Carolina, out-of-area adoptions are challenging due to logistical constraints related to volunteer travel for home visits[1].

Recognition

The organization has received the GuideStar Nonprofit Silver Award for its commitment to transparency and accountability[2]. Contributions to Greyhound Friends of North Carolina Inc. are tax-deductible, reflecting its registered 501(c)(3) status[2].

Adoption Process

The adoption fee includes spaying/neutering, vaccinations, a full physical exam, dental care, an occult heartworm exam, a fecal exam, a bath and nail clipping, and a greyhound safety choke collar and muzzle. Microchipping is available for an additional cost[1].

Greyhound Friends of North Carolina offers resources and support for adopters, helping to ensure a smooth transition for both the greyhound and the new family. The organization also emphasizes public education about the suitability of greyhounds as pets[1].

Mission Statement

The organization's core mission remains unchanged—finding loving homes for these deserving animals. By fostering relationships with humane and ethical organizations, Greyhound Friends of North Carolina ensures that its practices align with the highest standards of animal welfare[2].