In Memorium
Butchie
I am writing to tell you of the passing of my beloved Butchie. I adopted him from NGAP in 1999 and he has been a loving member of our family ever since. He will forever live in the hearts of my son and I. I cannot imagine ever having a more wonderful companion. He will be missed every day. Thank you for the chance to have had such an incredible creature be part of my life. Kimberly Joyce |
CindyI am very, very sad to report that Cindy (#5591) went on to the Rainbow Bridge last Saturday morning. Each grey is special in its own way, and Cindy had this innate ability to make every person she'd meet feel like they were the most important person in the world. From the kids in the neighborhood, to the handlers at the kennel where she was an occasional guest, people absolutely fell in love with her. Cindy...
Thanks to everyone at NGAP for teaching us the ropes of taking care of a greyhound, and most importantly, for introducing us to our beloved friend. John & Nancy Hiltgen |
 Sirah & EagleWe wanted to thank all of you who knew and in some way cared for our two furkids, Petite Sirah and Shannon's Eagle, adopted from NGAP Philadelphia in 2002. They both went to the Rainbow Bridge in July and we miss them terribly. Each of you were a part of their lives in some way and we wanted you to know that we appreciate the care that you gave to each of them. You may have been their veterinarians, Dr. Amat or Drs. Patel; worked in the veterinarian office of Poplar Animal Hospital, East Lincoln Animal Hospital, or the NGAP clinic where they would get their nails trimmed; or worked in the kennel at NGAP in Philadelphia or Howl-a-Day Inn in Maiden where they were boarding. Each of you interacted with each of them and added greatly to their lives. 
Thank you for helping to make it a greyt 7 years! A special thank you to David Wolf at NGAP for his support and advice whenever it was asked. Jim & Diane Fauver |
 VioletDear NGAP: It is with a heavy heart that I write to tell you that our beloved Miss Violet passed away on Saturday, 7/18 at 13 years old. We originally adopted Noonan from NGAP when we lost our Dalmatian to liver disease. Ten months later, Noonan travelled with us to NGAP to pick out his lifelong friend, Violet. She had been with us for 11 happy years and we already miss her terribly. Our Maddi (5605?) (adopted in 2002) is doing her best to keep our spirits up, and her ability to literally smile when the chips are down is what is keeping us going right now. Violet was a very special girl. Whether it was recovering from a stroke two years ago, or bullying the neighborhood groundhog two weeks ago, she never ever cried. She was our caretaker, our nurse and our guardian. She was so sweet and sensitive and was a real trooper in every sense of the word. Thank you for bringing Violet into our lives and for making the last 11 years so much better for us. And thank you for all of your advice and medical care along the way. We remain grateful to your staff, and in particular, Donna – who although dealt with hundreds of greyhounds, always remembered our Violet. Needless to say, our hearts are broken. Sincerely, |
Dancer
The sadness I feel writing this letter, words can not describe. Dancer (adoption #5739) passed away July 6th of 2009. Dancer was more than a hound, she was a companion. Every day she would do something silly just to make you laugh. When I would go to visit my mother, she could feel my mother feeling down then do the same thing. That did brighten up my mother’s day. When my mother passed in April of 2008, she would see me feeling down and would go out of her way to come over to me, then put her head on my lap with those loving eyes as if to say "It will be okay, Daddy, I love you". The love and compassion she had was unmeasureable. She loved to run, just run. The smile on her face would go from ear to ear. On December 20th of 2008 I had to put her housemate, Racey (#4953), down. When I came home, she was lying on his bed, and the sadness in her eyes was just heartbreaking. That was the last day she did anything silly. Dancer just gave up on life without Racey. When I took her to the vet they did not find anything. She was 13 so we only took the tests so far. The blood work came back with no cancer and all the tests were negative. I have pictures of those two sleeping in the same bed, two hounds, three beds and a couch. They just liked sleeping together. They were watching tv and I snapped a picture were they had there paws crossed like they were holding hands. Not a day went by when we did not get a big hound hug. To hug two hounds together is priceless. If people had half the love of greyhounds, what a wonderful world this would be. Thank you for giving me the love of owning greyhounds. It is truly amazing what greyhounds can teach you. Emory Appleby |
 BaltoIt is with a sad and heavy heart that I am posting this message. At 2:45 a.m. this past Sunday, I lost Balto, the love of my life. He was fine in the morning, but something happened during the day...I am now starting to believe he had a stroke, because he had lost almost all of his motor functions. I really do not wish to describe the ordeal as it is just too painful. He passed in transit from our house to VHuP. Not that it makes me feel any better, but I'm slightly comforted by the fact that he left me on his own terms. While I was prepared to have the vets euthanize him, if they determined it necessary, I'm glad that I didn't have to give them that order. We had 8 & a half glorious years together. My shadow had 4 legs. We were inseparable. He was the "big dog" on the University of Pennsylvania campus...he was a welcomed and adored visitor to the River's Edge Nursing Home...our real estate agent in North Wildwood, NJ convinced an owner of a condo (no pets allowed) to let us bring him with us on vacation!! There are SO many other wonderful stories. He had SO many friends and fans! The thing that pains me the most is this - for the past several years, I had a standing date EVERY NIGHT with the MOST HANDSOME MAN that I ever laid eyes on, and he LOVED me more than life itself. He'd parade me around the neighborhood, bringing smiles to everyone he met. The past 2 days, I cannot count the number of times people said, "Hey! Where's Balto???" I just immediately began crying... To this day, I cannot believe that he was actually returned to NGAP TWICE before we were matched up. The first day I met him (Oct. 2000), the first thing he did to me immediately was the "lean" - I knew I found my new buddy that very moment. Because of having to do some traveling for my job, I knew that I wasn't going to be able to bring home my new companion until January 2001. Until I got the NGAP stamp of approval to adopt, every day I hoped and prayed that Balto would be assigned to me. I still find it hard to believe that he was labeled a loud-mouthed, alpha dominate, trouble maker while at the kennel. He was nothing like that at all, even from day one. All he needed was someone to love him, and that I did. I'm actually thankful that his first 2 adoptive families returned him. I'm convinced, they didn't deserve to have him. He was a big part of our family, and we are all grieving. One funny thing - my father always liked the looks of Balto's bed. Just yesterday, he, in a very humble voice said, "can...can I have his pillow?" LOL - I said SURE! We'll wash the covers on it for you! I am SO thankful that this wonderful creature came into my life. The Lord blessed me in so many ways, and one of his greatest blessings was making sure that Balto and I were together. Run free my love...run free. Renie |
Tinkerbell
We met Tinkerbell at NGAP on June 15, 2002. Barb brought Tinkerbell into us - she was a return and needed a home because she did not want to eat. We adopted Tink that day. She was a petitie red fawn. She enjoyed doing the Pet Expo's, the Home Shows and Dewey every year. However, her favorite was Greyhound Sundays and checking out all the beds! Tink was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in April and it was time to say goodbye on May 5th. Through Tinkerbell, we have become involved in an organization that is made of special and caring people that want to see greyhound rescue succeed - from the kennel workers, veterinary staff, caretaker, office staff and the volunteers. Thank you for all your kindness and compassion. Also, a special thank you to David Wolf and Donna McCann for being there on May 5th. Thank you, |
 HenryIt is with great sadness and deep loss that my husband, Jeff and I tell you that our beloved grey boy “Henry,” racing name Sir Henry Morgan, adoption # 4541, passed away on Jan 15, 2009. He was 13 years old, and although we know that he is without pain now, we have a huge hole in our home and in our hearts. We miss him terribly. I adopted Henry in 2000 when he was 4 ˝, the summer after I graduated from college. Together, we moved to Miami, Florida so I could attend graduate school. I often joked that Henry was truly living the “retired” life in sunny Florida with all the other human retirees! He had his cushy bed (although he preferred the couch), innumerable walks in the lovely Florida sunshine, and was a sight to behold at the dog parks in full-on gallop. My husband became part of our “pack” in 2002, and the three of us were very close—even driving home to NY and PA for Christmas and Thanksgiving holidays to visit with family. Henry loved car rides and he would anxiously await the departure, sitting in the back seat while we would load up the trunk. Upon graduation in 2006, we moved to Houston, Texas, and settled into a house with a big fenced in backyard, a perk that Henry enjoyed immensely, even up until his last few days with us. It was always amazing to see our grey boy run; even as old age was catching up to him, he instantly was young again when he sprinted. Henry always impressed everyone he met—graceful, handsome, gentle, and intelligent— just a few words used by strangers and friends to describe him. He was always a hit in the neighborhood too; most people knew him by name and would stop to say hello whenever we were out for a walk. Although Henry had an arthritic shoulder, he developed a significant limp in mid January. He would normally rebound after a treatment of NSAIDs, however, when the drugs did nothing to alleviate the pain and discomfort, we took him to an orthopedic specialist, thinking (and hoping) that he had injured himself running in the backyard. Sadly, it was not a torn ligament or muscle injury, it was bone cancer. Not wanting to put Henry through any more pain and discomfort, we decided against amputation and chemotherapy. We believe that Henry deserved a graceful and peaceful end of life. In those final days, indeed, throughout his life with us, and ultimately at the very end, Henry was surrounded by Jeff and I, and our love. With the help of our vet, Henry passed away in the most compassionate and gentle way possible. It was, at the same time, the most difficult and the easiest decision we’ve ever had to make; easy because we knew he was in so much pain, but difficult because Henry was such a huge part of our lives. We often marvel at the perfect pairing you made with us and Henry—our temperaments were such a wonderful match and I don’t think we could have picked out a more perfect dog on our own. We need some time to let our emotions from Henry’s passing heal, however, we would welcome the opportunity to adopt from NGAP again in the future. Jeff and I love the Greyhound breed immensely, and would love to have the opportunity to bring another retiree into our home. We also wanted to write you to let you know of Henry’s passing and to thank you for the opportunity to have adopted him. He brought us so much joy and happiness, and we feel truly blessed to have had him in our lives, if only for 8 ˝ years. We wished it could have been longer, but we know that Henry will always be with us and in our hearts, and for that, we are truly grateful. Sincerely, |
Bon-Bon
We are sad to announce that Bon-Bon was put to sleep yesterday evening, April 15, 2009. She was 13 years old. She had suffered steadily declining function in her hindquarters since the end of March. Rimadyl and opioid treatment were effective early on, but it became clear in the last few days that it was a losing battle and the right thing to do was to end her pain. Bon-Bon and her pal Tulsa (who went to the Bridge in January) came into our home and our hearts in September 2007 at 12 years of age. They joined Breeze, who was left alone after Josh and Robine's passing that summer. In her brief 19 months with us in her last "forever home", Bon-Bon touched our lives in so many ways. We'll always remember her pigeon-toed walk, and her big toothless grin with the "Elwood tongue" hanging out of the side of her mouth. Most of all, we'll remember Bon-Bon's bouncy, exuberant joy of life that greeted us each morning. She is dearly missed by the canines and humans she leaves behind. Mark & Judy Stayton |
 CozmoDear NGAP, I just wanted to advise you that our beloved greyhound, Cozmo(adoption #5460, Eatoo, 1/31/02), has passed away from cancer last Friday 1/23/09. While we are so deeply sad from his loss, the incredible joy he brought into our lives, and hopefully we into his, that the pain of his loss is at least a little dampened for us. While we need just a little bit of time to mourn his loss, we will certainly be back down to the kennels shortly to see the hounds when you let them out to run and see the next "Cozmo" waiting to come to his or her "forever" home with us. Thanks so very much for doing what you do. We will see you shortly. Bob and Dar Wolf |
Red Man
NGAP, I'd like to extend my deepest thanks for blessing me with a lifelong friend when I adopted Red Man back in January 2000. He was by far the sweetest dog I had ever had in my life. He came into my life when I needed him most after tragically losing my first husband to sudden cardiac death, He filled my heart with love and was a great pal for my 2-year-old son Andreas. We shared many beautiful days with him! Unfortunately, he was diagnosed with an abdominal mass back in April 2008. I chose quality of life (he was 11-years-old) at that time and allowed Red to live comfortably for 8 long months. The vet estimated 3-6 months. He really was a trooper. Toward the end of his life he exhibited pain that was managed with daily Rimadyl. When the time had come that I saw he was in untreatable pain, I made the decision to lay him to rest. I stayed by his side as he fell asleep. It was very peaceful. I will miss my 'Gentle Giant' as this is often what I called him. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to own one of these amazing animals. The greyhounds you save each and every day are worth all the effort in the world - your commitment is greatly appreciated and respected by many. I have attached a picture of Red fro this past summer. He was a beautiful animal, and will be greatly missed. Anyone who met my Red loved him. Gratefully, Wendy Hummel |
TreatWith great sadness I must report my beloved "Treat", adoption #2974, passed away on February 10th. He suffered a seizure at home and quickly went downhill. The "final gift" was administered with extreme compassion and dignity. He was 14 years old. I was truly blessed to have him in my life. He showered me with unconditional love each and everyday. 12 years ago when we started our lives together, I thought I had rescued him. After his passing, I realized it was Treat who really rescued me. He was the sweetest boy. Special thanks to Gay and Sam Latimer, wonderful people doing wonderful work bringing greyhounds and people together. Jerry Williams |
Tulsa
It is with a sad heart that I tell you that our Tulsa went peacefully to the Bridge this evening. She had been in gradual decline for several months, and today she let us know it was time to leave. Tulsa and her pal Bon-Bon were featured in an article in the 2007 NGAP newsletter. They were returned to NGAP at 12 years of age. We had lost two of our hounds in the span of six weeks during the summer of '07, leaving one lonely girl Breeze. Tulsa and Bon-Bon were just irresistable and perfect additions to the pack. Though her time with us was all too short, we're glad to have been her forever home. She is missed by the canines and humans she leaves behind. Mark |
Harley It's been 5 weeks since I lost Harley and I'm just now able to write this email. I adopted HARVEY (I don't have his number here with me at work) from you in October 2003. We changed his name to Harley and took him home to Delaware. He had a greyt life at his new home and enjoyed the retired life of a greyhound....eating and sleeping and sneaking into my king size bed when I was at work!! I could always tell when he had been up on the bed, the covers would be all bunched up in the middle. On Friday morning February 6, 2009 it was like any other morning where we would get up go out to do our business then come back in the house and have breakfast. Every morning Harley would gallop up and down the hall being a "race dog" come and get his treat then eat his breakfast. This particular morning he galloped down the hall and let out a yelp. I assumed maybe he had gotten tangled up in his blankets and ran down the hall to find him thrashing in the doorway to our bedroom. He tried to get up but was unable to and I cradled him in my arms and he was gone in a minute. He had never been sick and was always healthy. I have no idea what happened and that is the hardest thing for me to understand and accept. I miss him everyday and I want to thank you for giving me the priviledge to own such a greyt animal for the past 5 years. Sincerely, Andrea Finkbiner |
EdwardThis is to notify you that our Edward was euthanized on Feb 10, 2009, after a turn for the worse and a major seizure. We think he was 18 or 19 as we could not read his "old" tattoo. We miss him tremendously, as you see "Ed-tard" was very different than other gray. He alked...incessantly!! He also sang along with you. He walked himself by taking his leash in his mouth..really he walked my husband! The neighbors will miss his evening visit this summer as he made his rounds. He did not have many teeth left and his tongue always hung out the side of his mouth making us laugh as he looked like a "dork" Thus the name ED-Tard! He also loved boating, but this limited family participation as he claimed the entire seat across the back of the boat as his throne. My husband will miss Ed as he was a "chick" magnet when walking the piers and neighborhood. No one could pass him by without a touch and a word. I can not stand the silence and loss of my friend so we will be visiting you soon to choose our next companion. Arlene & Larry Swarthout |
Wallace
Dear Friends, At 2:11 this afternoon, Wallace took the "escalator" to be with his sister Wish in heaven (who took the elevator). As many of you know, he had diarrhea for the last several weeks that wouldn't respond to medications. The hardest part of all, was his mind was still sharp (well, as sharp as Wallace's mind could be) until this morning. For lunch we went out and got him a 6 piece nugget meal, which he ate 5. He LOVED McNuggets. We took him to the clinic and everyone agreed he was ready to go, he was sooo tired looking. Dr D who works for us was kind enough to do the deed, and Rox our tech and Bill were with him at the end. I had to leave the room...I just couldn't deal. Bill said Wallace just went peacefully to sleep...no struggle, no funny looks, no vocalizing. We are having him cremated, and he will then be with Wish. We got him in June 2000 at NGAP, and he was on the "male sale" list. His racing name was Scuppa Doozy, but the staff called him "just Joe." He was a great camper and trail blazer. When his sister Wish died in Jan 2006, he actually cried. He cried. He was happy when we adopted Noel and Laci in Feb 2006 within 2 weeks of each other. He would bark and give them hell in his day! When female friends would visit, they always asked about "B-Boy." He was a real "chick magnet"...all the girls loved Wallace. There will be some sad girls in the world tonight. Wallace will be sorely missed. He was a great "roo-er" and a chatterer. Angela and Bill Lewis |
JudgeIt is with great sadness that I contact you to let you know that my wonderful "Judge" was put to sleep on February 25th, 2009. He had just turned 10. Judge has been my constant companion since I first met him at your agency in April of 2001. Everyone who met him fell in love with him instantly. When I was living in NJ, and would return to the agency for Judge's routine dental exams and physicals, everyone would comment that he was the largest grey they'd ever seen. I thought I was adopting a horse when I first saw him running in the yard at NGAP! After years of excellent health, Judge started feeling poorly last November, right around Thanksgiving, but after several trips to the vets during the last three months, nothing could be found. His appetite remained strong most days, but his activity level decreased, yet he was losing weight, and having difficulty laying down and getting up. Despite not feeling well, my buddy was always waiting for me at the door when I got home from work, and did his goofy little dance I adored so much. He was truly the love of my life. During an exam in late February, in preparation for some dental work, the vet noticed Judge's abdomen was swollen, and ordered an ultrasound, which indicated widespread cancer. Knowing he was in discomfort and pain, and watching his health go downhill so quickly, I made the hardest decision of my life. I will be forever greatful for the 8 years he shared with me, and I hope that someday in the not too distant future, I will bring home another greyhound, who will touch my heart the way Judge did. Thank you NGAP for all that you do to give these wonderful creatures good, loving homes, and allowing our lives to be so deeply touched by them. Terri Faust |
Stella, aka Love
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TroyIt is with sadness that I must tell you that our beloved "Troy", racing name Greek Metaxa, adoption #3445 passed away on December 16th. He had been ill for a day or two and when he refused his dog treats and vanilla ice cream I knew something was very wrong. He quickly went downhill and suffered a seizure at home. We were fortunate that we were able to rush him into see Dr. Patel at her Newtown office immediately. She quickly ended his suffering in the most compassionate and gentle way. Troy was surrounded by myself, my husband Tom and my children who thankfully were home on college break. I could tell from his eyes he was tired and ready to go. He was 13 years old. 
Troy came into our lives in 1999 at the age of 3 ˝. He was a beautiful white and brindle ticked color. He lived happily with his brother "Jack", JCK Attilla, who passed in August of 2006. Troy lived the good life having access to all the beds in the home, long walks in Tyler State Park and weekend trips to our shore home in Ocean City, New Jersey. Troy was a wonderful companion and we were so lucky to have him in our lives. He will be truly missed! I wanted to thank you also for the superior service you provided us with Troy's cremation at All Pets Crematory. I made one call and Troy was picked up promptly at Dr. Patel's office. A special thanks to Terry who walked us through the process and had such a calming and professional demeanor. A sorrowful time was made easier with her help and my family and I so appreciate it! The beautiful wooden remembrance box is lovely and large enough to accommodate both Jack & Troy and their collars. We will be in contact with NGAP for our new family member soon as we will always have a greyhound in our lives. Sincerely, |
