Don't have the space or situation to take a greyhound into your home right now? No problem. There are many thing you can do to ease the trip rescued greyhounds make from the track to the couch. For example:

• Crates. (metal only 2 1/2" X 3' minimum) Foster homes need crates to help the dogs transition to pet life. Greyhounds actually feel safe in their crates and need them when the stress of moving into a new home is too much.
• Clean blankets sheets and towels. Dogs are turned over to ReGAP in an "as is" condition. They need blankets, sheets and towels to lie on as they are brought to their new homes, and to line the inside of their crates once they get to their foster parents.
• Feeding Dishes. Greyhounds leave their racing career with just the collars on their necks. Everything they need for pet life has to be given to them.
• Martingale collars and leashes. Greyhound necks are actually bigger than their heads, so they tend to slip out of conventional collars. Martingale collars afford an extra measure of security when dealing with dogs just off the track.
• Medical Supplies. Because the dogs bring their injuries with them, it is often necessary to perform first aid at the pick up site. Bandages, Betadine, vet wrap cotton, and general medical equipment is needed by the volunteers transporting greyhounds.
• Iams or Eukanuba Lamb and Rice Dog Food. Greyhound track diets often consists of meat unfit for human consumption, and a host of additives that may cause gastrointestinal distress. Lamb and rice food is easily digested and helps dogs with nutrition related problems start back on the road to full health.
• Dog Coats (large). Greyhounds off the track have no body fat and hence no insulation against Michigan winters. Because of their increased susceptibility to hypothermia, they need warm coats when the temperature drops below freezing.
• Foster Homes. Unlike some rescue groups, ReGAP will not place a dog into its adoptive home directly from the track. Instead our dogs go to foster homes where they can be evaluated, treated if necessary, and their transition to pet life can begin under the guidance of knowledgeable, caring foster parents. Because of this policy, ReGAP is limited in the number of dogs it can accept by the number of foster homes available. No experience is necessary, as training is provided.
• Drivers. Since Michigan is not a racing state, all the dogs ReGAP saves come from other areas of the country. Volunteers are needed to meet breeders and pick up dogs, then transport them back to the Detroit area to the ReGAP Vets.
• General Volunteers. Like to go to craft shows, or boat shows, or activities at convention centers? Why not combine that with a shift at one of the ReGAP Meet and Greet booths? You don't need a greyhound, just a couple of hours and a desire to help. See the Events Page for an activity near you, or create one of your own! Help us educate the public by finding groups we can speak to such as your local school, church, or social organization.