As a member, and a previous owner of a fantastic retired greyhound that I acquired straight from a kennel in Manchester, near to the Belle Vue track, I feel I must highlight the fact that contrary to Lord Lipsey’s comments, most greyhounds, unfortunately, do NOT live out the rest of their lives as happy retired pets.

Maybe from the statistics he has, they do, but do his figures actually take into account the poor dogs that have given their all, and are discarded before they even make it to the Greyhound Rescue or such charities? Or does it simply contain the facts on the numbers of dogs that come though their records?

What happens to the dogs that are tortured, or abused, or even abandoned, without the Greyhound Rescue’s knowledge?

What of the dogs that have their ears severed in order to prevent identification, or those just allowed to run free, or those that are thrown from car windows on when they have exceeded their usage? Not to mention the poor animals that are shot and buried – or worse – without anyone’s knowledge or intervention?

I really must contest Lord Lipsey’s view and highlight the plight of these wonderful creatures to the readers.

They make fantastic pets that will suit families through to the retired, and need little exercise, but demand a comfy bed. Never could you wish to own a more gentle and caring dog than a greyhound.

Please acknowledge that not enough is done to protect these wonderful dogs that race their hearts out for little or no reward, only to be discarded like a piece of rubbish when they reach an age no longer acceptable in the racing world.

Rescue a greyhound today, you will never regret it.

Steve Bennett Mill Lane Warton