Here is an article from today's Akron Beacon Journal:

Push to find homes for greyhounds

Claims of 500 dogs facing death untrue, but good homes still needed for the retiring racers

The rumors flying across the Internet are hurtful and untrue.

They claim that 500 racing dogs are facing imminent death by euthanasia at the Plainfield Greyhound Park in Plainfield, Conn., but that's a lie.

They also say that the track is closing, also a bunch of baloney.

"The true story is we have dogs for adoption, they're in great shape and they're wonderful pets,'' said Karen Keelan, assistant manager. "I don't know what your stand is on greyhound racing, but there are pros and cons in anything. My father was the first one in the business to start an on-site track adoption program.''

They love their dogs, she said.

The track has invested generously in the future of its retired racers and assumed responsibility for finding homes for more than 2,000 of them in the last 12 years, she said. The track also coordinates with rescues in Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Here's what is really happening: The park is switching from year-round to seasonal racing. The last race will be run today. At some point this summer, it will reopen for simulcast betting. Plans are being made for a reopening in 2006.

Dogs available

Meanwhile, the park has 200 to 300 dogs up for adoption. "We are currently taking an inventory,'' to determine the exact number, she said. People can call 888-267-1099 and leave their name and address and Keelan will send them a packet of information. Web surfers can go to www.greyhoundpets.org and download adoption papers from there. The adoption fee is $75.

Also, the track is organizing "hauls'' to deliver dogs to regional locations where demand is high. This might work out for Northeast Ohioans.

"We've had a tremendous outpouring from all around the country, and as much as I dislike bad press, this has sparked an interest in adoption,'' said Keelan.

"The rumors are just awful. I hate reading them. There are even people asking for money (in behalf of the greyhounds) on the Internet and people will send money to whoever this is!''

So cool your jets, surfers.