Greyhound Care

GREYHOUND CARE

& GAP ADVOCACY

Special Care for a Unique Breed

At Seaforth Vets, we have a profound appreciation for the "45mph couch potato." Greyhounds are a truly unique breed, biologically, medically, and behaviourally, and they require a tailored approach to veterinary care that differs significantly from other dogs.

Our practice is a proud advocate for the Greyhounds as Pets (GAP) programme. While our entire team is experienced in treating retired racers, Dr Lewis Hunt is the primary driver of our greyhound department. With over a decade of involvement in the GAP programme and countless adoption days under his belt, Lewis has fostered a clinic-wide culture of expertise dedicated to the health and rehoming of these gentle giants.

WHY GREYHOUNDS NEED A "GREYHOUND-SAVVY" VET

If you are the proud owner of a greyhound, you likely already know they aren't "just like other dogs." Because of their athletic heritage, their physiology is specialized:

Unique Blood Profiles
Unique Blood Profiles
Greyhounds have naturally higher red blood cell counts and different "normal" ranges for certain enzymes. A vet who isn't familiar with the breed might misinterpret these results as a sign of illness, whereas our team understands these are the markers of a healthy greyhound.
Anaesthetic Sensitivity
Anaesthetic Sensitivity
Due to their low body fat and unique liver metabolism, greyhounds require very specific anaesthetic protocols. Our surgical team uses tailored monitoring and drug choices to ensure their safety under anaesthesia.
The "Greyhound Freeze"
The "Greyhound Freeze"
Behaviourally, they can be prone to "flight or freeze" responses. We understand their sensitive nature and use low-stress handling techniques to keep them calm during exams.
GREYHOUND HEALTH CHALLENGES

COMMON GREYHOUND HEALTH CHALLENGES

Our team is highly experienced in diagnosing and managing breed-specific conditions, including:

  • Corns: A frequent but often misdiagnosed cause of lameness. We are experts at identifying and treating corns to get your greyhound walking comfortably again.
  • Dental Disease: Greyhounds are notoriously prone to dental issues. We provide proactive dental care, including digital X-rays, to keep their "needle-noses" healthy.
  • Skin and Coat Care: Their thin skin makes them more susceptible to tears and temperature sensitivity, requiring specific dermatological attention.

PROUD GAP AMBASSADORS

We don't just treat greyhounds; we champion them. Lewis and the team work closely with Greyhounds as Pets (GAP) to assess retired racers and prepare them for their "forever homes."

We understand the transition from the track to the couch. We provide advice on:

Socialisation
Socialisation
Helping retired racers adjust to life with children, other dog breeds, and even cats.
Adoption Assessments
Adoption Assessments
We assist in matching the right greyhound temperament to the right family environment.
Post-Adoption Support
Post-Adoption Support
Ensuring new owners have the medical and behavioural support they need as their new companion settles in.

A BREED APART

Whether your greyhound is a retired racer or a pampered pet, they deserve a veterinary team that speaks their language. From understanding their unique blood chemistry to managing their sensitive souls, we are here to provide the specialised care they need.
"Greyhounds are a breed that stays with you. Once you understand their unique quirks and their gentle nature, you can't help but fall in love with them."
DR LEWIS HUNT

EXPERIENCE THE SEAFORTH DIFFERENCE

Looking for a vet who truly understands your greyhound? Our team is ready to help.

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