My passion for greyhounds started back in 1994 when a stray greyhound in poor condition turned up at our Suffolk farmhouse. In those days no one adopted greyhounds. Moving to France I discovered the situation for the Spanish Greyhound (galgos) and started my long fight to publicise their plight and help the rescue associations. So it's easy to forget that the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (nothing Great about Britain now!) ignores the plight of unwanted greyhounds transported to a life of hell in China! Would you believe they eat greyhounds in China>!
So for a change from galgos, I'm publishing this latest report from Kerry Elliman who originally founded Greyhound Protection UK which developed into Candi Hound Rescue International. She has been rescuing British greyhounds in China for several years and this is her latest report, from 25/11/2024.
RIP Dinui
Kerry spent this week in China, and it has been a time of deep reflection and sorrow. Unfortunately, it's not the kind of news anyone hopes for, but with heavy hearts, we had to say goodbye to DuNui. This brave boy had fought so hard, but his battle with cancer, including bone cancer, had taken its toll. A large, painful lump had appeared on his back leg, and despite all the love and care he received, it was clear that he had endured more than his little body could bear.
DuNui was more than just a dog; he was a beautiful soul who brought so much joy and comfort to those who knew him. His loyalty, warmth, and gentle nature will never be forgotten. As we let him go, we find some comfort in knowing that he is no longer in pain, that he is now free from suffering, and that he is at peace.
Rest easy, sweet boy. You will always be loved, and you’ll forever hold a special place in our hearts.
No one will ever hurt you again, and your spirit will continue to live on in the love you gave us all.
Clytie
Clytie, who arrived just the other day, has truly broken our hearts. It’s incredibly difficult to see a Greyhound in such a state. She is covered in scars, each one telling a painful story, and she is absolutely terrified. The poor girl was rescued from a slaughterhouse in China, where she endured unimaginable conditions. Now that she's safe, we can begin to heal her, but the journey ahead will be a long one. Clytie is an older girl, which makes her even more vulnerable, and because of this, she will be a priority to get out of China and into a loving, safe home. She deserves nothing less than a second chance at life, one full of love, care, and comfort.
Beautiful Freya
The first photo is heartbreaking but actually as the day goes on she’s more confident and happier.I have spoken to many rescues who have dealt with a condition called NEOSPOROSI. (Neosporosis is a parasitic infection in dogs that affects the nervous system and muscles. It's caused by the protozoan parasite Neospora caninum and is uncommon)
One of the main symptoms in older dogs with it is the issue with the back legs but they can then go on to have a happy life.She has been to a local Vet today by the kennels who doesn’t feel she’s in pain but she’s going to a specialist Vet on Monday for tests and the vet is also experienced with Neosporosis.
Everyone will have an opinion but things like this aren’t as clean cut and as straight forward as just commenting on a video.Shes actually really really sweet and she can lay down easily. Its a shock when you first meet her and understandable very upsetting.
Minnie, the beautiful Afghan
Minnie has been fighting hard over the past several weeks as she's been receiving chemotherapy for her lymphoma cancer. The journey hasn't been easy, and she still has one more round of treatment ahead of her. Once this is completed, she will be given priority to leave China and find a new, peaceful place to call home.
When I last saw her, she seemed so much more downcast and weary. She’s much more depressed now, and it’s heartbreaking to see the toll this ordeal has taken on her. While she's still receiving medication for her eye condition, she has also lost a bit of weight, which only adds to the challenge. Despite all of this, Minnie remains strong and continues to fight, though she desperately needs to be in a loving and warm home where she can feel safe and cared for.
The vets have given an estimated prognosis, stating that after completing her treatment, Minnie could have around three more years to live. We just need to get her to a place where she can truly relax, recover, and enjoy those years in comfort. All she really needs now is to find someone who will offer her the care and compassion she so deeply deserves.
(I personally don't agree with putting a dog through chemo. Regular readers may remember April 2023 and my beloved galgo Polar, when lymphoma attacked his throat and other parts of his body. I was offered chemo for him but refused. From reading about Minnie and looking at her picture, she is not a happy dog. Just my personal opinion, I have written to Candi Hound with my opinion.)
All Landed Safely
Chase, Dandi, and Aurora have all landed safely after their long journey. from China. The dogs are understandably a bit stressed from the flight, and the airport is bustling with activity, which isn't helping their nerves. However, they’re all doing okay and adjusting to the busy environment. It’s a relief that they made it through the journey, and now they just need some time to settle in and relax.
This year, after a four-year absence, I returned to China with a crucial mission: to get all the dogs out who had been waiting for years due to Covid. Upon seeing the conditions of the kennels where these dogs had been living, it became clear that we also needed to replace the old kennels. I’m happy to say that this has been accomplished – all our dogs are now safe in our beautiful new facilities.
I’ve booked a flight for Tuesday, December 3rd, to collect Sarah 🩵, Milo 🩵, and Eros. I land in China on the 4th and will return the same day. All three dogs have secured spots on the flight. Sarah and Eros will be the last of our sighthounds to leave, marking the final chapter for all those beautiful whippets and greyhounds who have been waiting so long 🩵.
We’re so close to completing this mission, but we still need your support. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. Even £1 can help us reach our goal.
Here’s how you can donate:
Bank Transfer:
Candy Hound Rescue International
Sort Code: 30-90-89
Account Number: 35882460
PayPal: [email protected]
Thank you https://candyshoundrescue.org/
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