There is a reason the dogs are required to wear a plastic muzzle at the GAP runs – if they get a bit boisterous, as here, there is much less chance of injury. Greyhounds have very thin skin that tears easily, which can be costly in vet bills. Vulcan has had to be patched up twice since we’ve had him, just from accidents that wouldn’t affect other breeds to the same extent.

In this photo, about 3 dogs are being a bit exuberant, you can even see the spittle flying from the black and white one. Interesting that some dogs have an attitude problem, while others just go with the flow.

The boys on the back deck this morning. Possible cat warning in the backyard.

If there’s a cat there, they’ll grab it.

This really is highly unusual – Vulcan has never in the past tolerated anywhere near this amount of contact, he was initially even jumpy with humans reaching over him if he was asleep.

This Raro waiting for an apple core – he’s discovered that he loves apples.

Mel.

This is our new foster dog, Mel (Shaga Banga Bang). Our previous foster, Roy, left us for his forever home last Sunday morning, Mel arrived the same afternoon.

Mel’s doing well, seems very happy here and not grumpy with our boys at all. Respectful of their food bowls, shares floor space and dog beds with no problems. Was confident enough to rest his head on Vulcan’s back, he won’t do that again! Raro, of course, doesn’t care.

Very attached and follows us around. He’s a bit vocal at times, but nothing unusual, just a bit of whining when separated.

Hasn’t chewed anything. So far.

Raro at the GAP Upper Hutt run today. He’s a very well behaved and extremely social dog, goes and leans on everybody.

The boys (Vulcan and Raro) at the Lynley Dodd Hairy Maclary statues on The Strand, Tauranga this morning.

From left: Muffin Mclay (like a bundle of hay), Bitzer Maloney (all skinny and bony), Vulcan (Sunset Spock), Raro (Lochinvar Camaro).

And no, Bitzer is not a greyhound 😦 but might be a whippet.

More information about the sculptures at http://www.hairymaclarysculptures.org.nz/

Raro relaxing with a toy on the sofa. He really is a handsome and very happy and enthusiastic dog.