Basil relaxes on a couch in the Salomon ’ s Danville home . Photo by Carol Roehm
Several greyhound rescue organizations help find homes for the greyhounds that are retired or are left when a racetrack closes . The Salomons adopted Minnie and Basil from the suburban Chicago-based 4 Greyhound Racers group .
“ There used to be a waiting list of greyhounds needing to be adopted , but now there isn ’ t as the racetracks are all shutting down ,” Salomon said .
The greyhound rescue groups are run by volunteers who spend several months preparing the racetrack dogs for their new life in a family home .
“ The dogs go into foster care for six months because they can ’ t go straight from the track to a home ,” she explained .
“ People interested in adopting a dog can go for a foster visit and let the dogs pick them ,” she said . “ They let you see who fits in your house and with your family .
“ The rescue group also will do a home visit and interview your kids ,” she added . industry in the first place , according to Salomon .
“ There are some who say , ‘ They ’ re born to run . Let them run for two years and then let them go to a good home ,’” she said .
Others are concerned about the welfare of the greyhounds that live at the racetracks until they are retired , but Salomon said from what she ’ s seen while visiting the racetracks , “ They ’ re treated like kings and queens .”
Tonya Salomon talks to Basil ( right ) as Minnie stands by . Photo by Carol Roehm
8 ILLIANA MAGAZINE — SUMMER 2022