I remember seeing greyhounds for the very first time back in 1985 at the Erie County Fair.  It was then I decided that not only would one of these amazing animals be my first dog when I finally “grew up,” but also that would be a most worthwhile charity for me to support—saving a dog's life!

The time finally came for me in 2002 when I was living on Long Island and purchased my first house.   Mingo (aka Abdo Blue Devil Dog ) came from the Shoreline Star Race Park in Connecticut before it closed down permanently in 2005.   Mingo was dropped off at my front door by the adoption reps, sight unseen.  He was dusty, dirty, had a mangled ear from a dog fight, and appeared emaciated.   But it took only one look into his bright blue eyes and it was love at first sight!  

Nothing I had read prepared me for the first months with my 79 lb male.   No amount of baby gates, safety locks, or chew toys were enough for the anxiety he faced during those first months together.   Through it all and with all the books I read on greyhounds, we grew on each other.   Mingo followed me everywhere, including to the elementary school where I worked as a principal.   He read with students in Kindergarten and first grade.  He marched in the annual pet parade and worked meet-and-greets across Long Island with the Grateful Greyhounds adoption group.

Since moving back “home” to Rochester last summer, Mingo has quickly taken to city life.  He and I walk daily with a half dozen other Park Avenue greyhounds and together, we turn plenty of heads!   Mingo and I have enjoyed sharing our old city house with two foster hounds this year; Give it a Spin Sophie and Big Nose Kate.   These experiences have made me even more appreciative and respectful of this noble breed.

Today, Mingo continues to read with students at the Paul Road Elementary School in Gates Chili.  He is approaching his 10th birthday and tips the scales at a solid 92 lbs.   Corns on three paws may slow him down a bit, but with his sturdy Thera-Paw booties and monthly treatments from Dr. Kathleen Hall at Suburban Animal Hospital, he continues to jog, dance, and spin down Park Ave, chasing the occasional squirrel or chipmunk, while hoping for an ice cream handout at Abbots.    His warm, gentle nature continues to humble me.   His friendliness and outgoing personality have provided several opportunities to talk with people in the community and at school about the greyhound racing industry and the noble cause of greyhound rescue and GAGR!

- Peter Hens