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What our Volunteers say: Tony
As you will all know, we took Bale on Saturday morning to foster with Teddy, now Eddie, which sadly did not work out due to Eddie's issues.
Bale was just the dream dog that everyone wants. He is such a handsome big boy with a friendly soul. He was great in the car on his own, fantastic on walks as he plods at his own pace, very uninterested in other dogs, and a good slow eater.
If anyone wanted a greyhound as a first dog, I would recommend Bale; he would certainly be my first choice. I am gutted that I couldn't keep him and that Eddie didn't get on with him, although you could see Bale liked Eddie.
It was upsetting that I had to return him, and I feel I let him down, but as it was going to be his first home, I didn't want him to feel that having another dog snap at him while he got close to me was the norm. I do hope he gets his forever home soon and is not another long stayer.
What our Volunteers say: Jonathan and Lynne
We picked up Bale from the kennels, along with our greyhound, Otto, and took them to the car. We lifted Bale into the back, as it is quite high and we didn't want him to get hurt—let's just say he is quite a heavy lad!
We drove to Quarry Bank National Trust park, which is a 30-minute journey. Bale lay down most of the way and was no bother whatsoever in the car. When we arrived, he managed the steps perfectly and walked very well on the lead alongside Otto, drawing looks from quite a few admirers.
We then went on a woodland walk where he met a blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier. They both said hello and were quite friendly. We continued our walk around the woods where he met many other breeds of dogs, both small and large. He is incredibly good with other dogs and was quite happy to be in their company. When some dogs ran past him at speed, we got the impression he wanted to go and play with them, as he seemed quite excited. We then took him down to the river where he seemed to enjoy a paddle along with Otto.
When we stopped for lunch, a little boy and his dad approached Bale. We let them know that he is very good with children and other people, so the boy came over and stroked him. We then took him to the café, where he sat down and chilled while we had our drinks. On both occasions where food was present, he was very well-behaved and didn't show any interest.
On our way back to the car, he met Poppy, a 20-year-old Jack Russell, and he was so gentle with her. Then it was time to head back to the kennels, where again he travelled perfectly. We think he was reflecting on his day out, which we know he thoroughly enjoyed.
Bale's Day Out Highlights:
Travel: Perfect passenger; happily lay down in the car for the entire journey.
Lead Walking: Walks very well on the lead.
Agility: Good with steps.
Socialization: Exceptionally good with other people, children, and dogs of all breeds and sizes.
Manners: Excellent around food with no begging or interest shown.