We want to share some information about our beloved Greys that will always hold a place in our hearts. We miss them dearly and will love them always. For those loved ones whom have crossed the Rainbow Bridge..

Together, We DO Make A Difference!

Click on the Image to visit our Adopted Hounds!

SKIDDY JOLT

I had looked at greyhounds for months and just couldn't seem to find the right dog for us. I knew that I was looking for a dog with a personality that "clicked". I had it in my mind that I didn't want a Black or Brindle and it had to be a female. Well, then came along Skiddy Jolt, a Blue Brindle male with the most beautiful golden eyes I had ever seen. From the minute I met him, he touched my heart and at that moment I knew that he was the "one". In July 2002, at the age of 2, Jolt moved into our house and our hearts.

On Labor Day Weekend 2007 at the young age of 7, Jolt left us and began his journey to the Rainbow Bridge.

Jolt     June 20, 2000  -  September 3, 2007

SI CONDOR (Millie)

Millie was a special shy girl that brought joy, tears and laughter into her family.  She learned to trust and enjoy life. 

Millie was a gentle soul that blossomed under her mommy's loving care.   She grew to enjoy company, treats, the beach and her walks.

Millie is sadly missed by her family and everyone that was fortunate enough to have gotten to know her.

She made her journey to the Rainbow Bridge on October 12, 2007.

                                  

                            Millie     March 28, 1999 - October 12, 2007

FOXIE BRITANY

                            Britany    November 23, 2002- March 10, 2007

         Squidy  October 14, 2002  -  March 20, 2007

LOOSER TMW

Cricket was the start of a life change.  She brought love and gentleness to our home.  She was always forgiving of those human errors that brought her to us.

Cricket was the inspiration of Cricket's Kreations.  It is in her memory that we give to GRFT so that they can continue to help retired Greyhounds and bring happiness into homes.

Cricket will always be remembered and sadly missed by her family and  friends.

ALLI

Alli was our inspiration for the creation of Greyhound Rescue Foundation of Tennessee. 

She was a special girl who never raced as she was from an oops litter, raised and injured in the adoption kennel at Birmingham race track  She was never tattooed nor given an official race name.   She was our big girl Alli.

She helped many retired Greyhounds adjust to retirement in her home.   She would teach them respect in a calming Alli way.

Sadly missed by her family and many Greyhound friends.

Alli made her journey to the Rainbow Bridge on February 14, 2008.

GREYS FLASH TIME

Sasha as she was known by all that loved her was one of the founding members of GRFT.  She taught many fosters to become pets and companions and she was the model Greyhound. 

Sasha loved people of all sizes, chasing chipmunks, and her special treats. 

Sasha will be remember with gentle tears by all that knew her.

CUZZIN BLUE JEANS  (Spencer)

Spencer was truly a best friend to those that knew him.  He loved children and adults alike.  All of  Spencer's siblings were adopted through GRFT with Spencer being the last in the litter to retire.  Having met all the others, when George Mullins, the breeder made a haul to us Mike and I let him know we wanted the last boy in the littler when he retired.  Spencer was 4 1/2 years old when he retired and he just crawled right into our hearts. 

Run free our precious gentle boy.  Until we meet again.

Spencer is sadly missed not only by Mike & Janis but their granddaughters also miss their best buddy.

Y KNOT GLORY

The course of my life was changed when GloBug entered it on May 3, 2004. She brought with her joy & sunshine, love & laughter. She was a happy hound with a coat of velvet & soulful eyes. She loved to snuggle, she loved to eat and she loved to go, go, go. She greeted each day with a joyful enthusiasm that she happily shared. There was no doubt she looked forward to the adventures that might unfold.

She opened a door for me into the wonderful of world of greyhounds. I was lucky to have her in my life and I am grateful for each precious moment.

She captured my heart, touched my soul and left this world a better place for having been in it. 

P'S FREERIDE

He was the light of my life and my best friend.  Freeride never got in trouble because he never did anything wrong.  I miss him being in the house.  It will never be the same without him.  Freeride was better than a best friend.  He went boating and fishing with me, he liked to stand in the lake and I know there will never be anything or anyone that will mean that much to me again.  I miss that look he had that was so special and the playful look with one ear up and one ear down and all the times we played with his toys.

I know I can never find another Freeride.  He was my big boy and my baby and he will always be in my heart.

SEEK A JAM

Today our beautiful, elegant and regal Jake crossed the Rainbow Bridge. He would have been 12 years old in March. We were privileged to have him as part of our family for 6 years. It had become more difficult for him as his arthritis progressed and it was time to let him go. There is no more sacred promise, and no harder decision to make.

When Jake came to us he had been returned 3 times in his short lifetime through no fault of his own. He snuggled up to Patrick and we all knew that Jake had found his true forever home. He was named King of the Beach at Beach Bound Hounds that year and looked the part. He gained confidence and blossomed under Patrick's love and attention.

Jake can now run pain free as he joins his sisters Millie and Sasha and all his GRFT friends at the Rainbow Bridge. He will remain in our hearts and will be remembered with much love. Our hearts are saddened and the house is much too quiet without his gentle reminder that he needs a "cookie".

BESSIE

Our little Bessie took her journey to the Rainbow Bridge today, January 13, 2009.  Ron and I adopted Bessie one year ago at the age of 12 1/2.  Frail and depressed when she joined our family. We were so blessed to watch her gain weight and become a happy fun loving little Greyhound.  Though our time with her was short. We and her sister Greyhounds Francie and Cindy were happy to show her what it was like to live in a loving family. We will always remember how much she loved her little stuffies (even taking them with her at potty time), hugging us with her  head and cuddling with her sister Cindy.  Bessie we love you and will miss you and will be looking forward to seeing you and your sister Cricket at the Bridge someday. 

SOLITARY LOVE

Bailey was one of the first fosters to come into GRFT at the age of 4. 

Over the years, I’ve heard so many stories about Bailey’s life in rescue before she came to live with us—ten months in Knoxville with you guys. I know many of you cared about her and knew that she was a special girl.   I also heard a few stories about what she was like when you found her in Birmingham.  I have to share one of my favorite as well as annoying things about Bailey. Almost every night, she wanted attention in the middle of the night. She would come and stand by the bed, and if we didn’t notice, she would bump her chest against the bed as if to give us a warning. If no one responded, you can be sure that her next step was to take that especially long and cold nose of hers and run it along any bare patch of skin that she could find! A few pats of reassurance, and she’d go back to bed. Let me tell you that both Steve and I experienced this many, many times over the years, and I’ll actually miss this.

While Steve and I are sad, we know we’ll cherish our memories of Bailey.  Steve and I have held a bit of an Irish wake in her memory, and we even had Bartlett participate. We will take Bailey’s remains out to our farm. We’ll plant a tree in her honor, and we’ll bury her with her favorite purple stuffed crab that Mike and Janis gave us when we adopted her.

BOW DEWDROP

Dewey was a special dog that will be remembered by us many times a day.  Dave has reflected several times today how difficult it was not to have Dewey follow him down stairs for breakfast and how he missed Dew rubbing his head against his leg wanting to be pet.  For the past year and a half, Dewey waited in my room for me to get ready in the morning and when he saw me go into my sock drawer, he would stand up and get excited.  Some mornings if I took too long by his standards he would bark at me.  He knew that once my shoes were on it was time for a walk.  AFTER his walk I was free to do as I pleased but, not until he went around the block.  Dewey was always the first one to greet us whenever we returned home and always got the girls excited as well.  He helped Trudy to come out of her shell and she felt confident getting up to greet us as long as Dewey was nearby.  She and Jazzy seemed to look for Dewey both inside and out last night when we returned home without him.  They will miss their friend as we do but, they will recieve extra love because they have become more precious now.  We are very thankful and honored to have been a part of Dewey's life and to have been loved by him.  May he enjoy his final forever home more than he did ours.

We love you Dew 

SKIDDY DOC

Skiddy Doc was originally adopted through Smokey Mountain Greyhounds and because a GRFT pups when his family could no longer keep him.

Zev became the call name for this special boy who had lots of love to give and give it he did his whole life.  First with children, helping to teach 3 young children to walk while holding on.  Zev lost this home due to the doctor thinking the kids were allergic.  

Zev was then adopted by a family with 4 small children with the two youngest about 9 months so he had another job teaching the youngsters to walk.  After about 3 years this family no longer needed Zev and abandoned him at a vet's office.  Fuzzy & Nina again came to Zev's rescue.

Zev had finally hit the jackpot when a wonderful couple fell in love with him before even meeting him.  There are those among us that fall for the eyes and just know that is the one for us.  Bettie fell head over heals for this boy and made him her own until the day he left this earth to be with those that had gone before him. 

Zev knew love in his life but also rejection and  abandonment but he never lost the will to give of himself to others.  Fuzzy & Nina and  Bettie & John helped to bring peace and love into Zev's life.

Sadly missed by all that had the good fortune to get to know him.  Run with the wind big boy.

Lexis     October 9, 1998 - October 12, 2009

On a Saturday in February of 2002 I started my journey into the wonderful world of Greyhounds.  John and I and my friend, Marty, decided to check out Pet Supply City because the Greyhounds were there.  Like so many others, I had never seen a Greyhound "up close and personal," and fell promptly in love.  There was this beautiful red and white 4 1/2 year old that Brenda named Carson because he looked like Kit Carson's pinto pony.  I was smitten.  I had to wait three long weeks before I could get my baby but it was worth the wait.  Carson opened the door to not only the most fabulous breed of dog known to mankind, but to a world of new friends that I am proud to call my "Greyhound Family."  Yes, Mike I was going to have just "one" Greyhound but you knew better.  Five Greyhounds and many fosters later, I am still amazed at these wonderful creatures.  God gave me Carson for over seven wonderful years.  He would sit and listen to me when I needed to talk and would let me cry into his neck when I needed to cry.  I promised him that I would never let him suffer and when he went down I knew it was time.  It didn't make it any easier, but I kept my promise and let God have him back. 

Good night, sweet prince.  Wait for me at the bridge.

My love forever.

Carson     August 11, 1997 - October 12, 2009

It is with deep sadness and a broken heart that we said Goodbye to our Nikki.  She always brought a smile to our faces with her love of life.  Nikki was a happy, active beautiful girl.    Not everyone got to see the cuddly, kissy side of Nikki as she had a little scared side with strangers.

Nikki was handed to Mike & I with a condition that we adopt her.  We were not looking for another at the time but she stole our hearts in the first minutes so there was never a question that she would not find her home with us. 

Nikki always welcomed all the new fosters into her home and let them know life was good.  

Nikki our love was unselfish and we let you go but you will always have your place in our hearts.  Run free our sweet girl.

Sadly missed, always loved, until we meet again.

Nikki         September 20, 1999 - December 4, 2009

Our precious Levi went to the Rainbow bridge on Tuesday. He was diagnosed with bone cancer and UT informed us that it would spread in a matter of weeks. We did not want him to suffer or be in any pain.

Cuzzin Levi came to us in 2003... He was straight from the track and showed up in Mike and Janis' backyard. My son was 3 and we went to see the 'doggies'. Levi walked straight up to Tyler and gave him a wet nose 'hello', that was going to be our dog! (little did I know that Mike was not ready to part with Levi)

We all say that there has been one special dog in our lives and he was the one! Our hearts are still aching but we are comforted in knowing that he will not have to suffer. When we said our prayers last night, Tyler, our son, said that Levi was probably laughing at us for crying so much over him. I know each day will get easier.

Levi will always be loved by those who knew him. 

Levi      July 19, 1999 - December 15, 2009

I first saw Macy Grey on the Florida website.  A big beautiful blue girl named Stormy Sea Shell, and I fell in love.  I immediately called Janis and she put in a request for her.  We thought she was coming to Tennessee, but just days before her scheduled travel date she was adopted to a family in Florida.  I was very disappointed and our search for a blue girl continued.  About 4 months later we got a call that Stormy Sea Shell had been returned and within a few days she was in Tennessee and had moved into our home and our hearts.

Macy Grey is the name she chose for herself from the long list of options we had tried out.  She was such a regal lady at times, and just a bag goofy girl at others.  She seemed to take on the role of matriarch of our pack, canine and human alike.  She like having her way, she like order and above all she liked keeping her brother and sisters in line.  She could be very loving, she could be very aloof and at times she could be right down obstinate.  A very unique personality for a very unique girl.

We love you and we miss you our sweet baby.  You will forever be in our hearts.

Run free with your sister Britney.........Run free our big girl

Macy Grey        October 10, 2001 - February 13, 2010

   Dora            January 27, 2006 - February 23, 2010

Bonnie- Blue           July 27, 1999 - April 12, 2010

Kissie found her home on May 13, 2002 and was loved by a Mommy, Dad, and 2 skin kids. 

She was given several Greyhounds to share her home with as the years went by. 

Kissie has left a large hole in her families' heart. 

Sadly missed and never forgotten.

Kissie        January 12, 1998 - April 12, 2010

Gabby spent several years entertaining and caring for folks in a nursing home but when she aged and needed special attention Gabby found herself back in foster care at 12 years old.

A very caring family saw and fell in love with Gabby and offered her a loving home for as long as Gabby could allow them to share with her.

Gabby was called to the rainbow bridge on May 23, 2010 at 11:00 PM.  Her family says she was a wonderful addition to their family and she will be greatly missed.

Gabby touched all of our hearts and will always hold a special place with those that were lucky enough to have known her.

Gabby      October 1997 - May 23, 2010

I remember telling Sydney that if and when he had any pain from cancer or his seizures grew worse I promised him I wouldn't let him suffer.

Well I kept my word but Becky and I are the ones that are suffering.  I know we gave him a good life, I know he was getting old and I know he wouldn't want to live in pain with the bone cancer, so yes I had to keep my word that I promised him but, it's so hard.  Sydney didn't hurt anybody and never even barked at the grandkids as they all but laid on him--he loved the attention. Such a good boy- my buddy.

Sydney has join the other greyhounds and they are all running on pain free "legs".

Thanks Mike and Janis---you changed our lives.

Sydney     November 29, 1999 - June 3, 2010

Sadie as she was know to her family and friends.   Such love and trust from a sweet girl.  Sadie went into her home and helped to make it a family.  She accepted the little barkers as her siblings.

Sadie was loved each day and when the end came she was given with that love.

Run pain free sweet Sadie.  You will be missed and never forgotten.

Sadie        December 19, 1997 - June 14, 2010

It is with a very sad heart that I let you know that my sweet greyhound, Arthur, whom some of you knew as Argot, passed away this week at the tender age of six.  

Arthur had developed a limp which turned out to be bone cancer and did not survive the amputation surgery I had hoped would allow him to spend more time here pain-free. 

If you knew him, you knew he was as gentle as any greyhound could ever be and was a perfect match for me.  He was a companion, a friend and family. 

He will be missed dearly and remembered fondly, but I am grateful he is no longer suffering.

Thank you to everyone who helped bring Arthur into my life. I am indebted to all of you.

Arthur was a trooper but some things just happen for reasons we have to accept without understanding.

Sadly gone from our lives but never forgotten.

Arthur            June 26, 2004 - July 22, 2010

Sassy was a wonderful ambassador to the Greyhound breed.  She worked with the nursing home residents until they smiled.  She never complained and enjoyed her family and friends.  

Sassy is now running free without pain at the rainbow bridge with Prince and Bandit.  We feel it was a privilege to have her as long as we did.   Sassy turned 11 in May.

Sadly missed and always loved by family and friends.  Run free sweet girl.

Sassy             May 30, 1999 - July 23, 2010

Dundee was a beautiful blue boy that became a family member in June 2006.   He had the Greyhound personality and elegance.  

Dundee was much loved by family and friends and will be missed by all that knew him.

Run free sweet boy until we meet again.

Dundee           October 12, 2002 - June 1, 2010

It is with a heavy heart that I share with y'all that a cherished member of my family passed away yesterday.  I have allowed Lani to join her sister, Asia and many cousins at the Rainbow Bridge. There are those that come to us as chosen and then those that come to us as a miracle.  Lani was a miracle for sure.   No one knew her name or her past or even how old she was.

Lani      December 25, 1999 - August 10, 2010 

Lily spent the first two years of her life waiting for us to find her.  She knew how much we needed her.  Stroking her silky ears helped ease John’s mother's pain during her final days.

A year after Lily arrived she became the very patient big sister to Ginger.  She tried to teach Ginger the “Cookie Monster head roll” but was never quite successful.  Lily took the simple act of asking for a cookie to an art form.

Her last three years were a constant struggle.  SLO caused all her toenails to painfully fall off; lymphangiectasia gave her chronic diarrhea; and cancer, which  she fought silently until it was too late to help, proved to be her last battle.

She had two great joys in life – hunting squirrels in the park, which she did faithfully twice a day, and running in the snow.

Lily was the perfect dog.  She is greatly missed by all those who knew her and loved her.      

Lily       August 10, 2003 - September 4, 2010

We adopted Emily in 2005.   Her name should have been spunky.  She ran the house from the day we brought her home. 

Emily was adopted twice and came back to us twice, through no fault of her own.  She was a cuddler and was my husbands heart dog.   I loved her too but, Dave was her favorite.  

Emily entertained people in the nursing home.  If she didn't go there on a particular day they would always ask "Where's Emily"?

We miss her terribly but I know she is pain free and keeping Sassy company at the Rainbow Bridge.            

Run Free Sweet Emily

Emily     August 28, 1999 - September 3, 2010

Hi-D passed away June 20, 2010 after a battle with bone cancer.  She was such a gentle girl, even letting the little Pappion eat before she would.  She also mothered the new kitten, washing its face often.

We miss her so much.

Hi-D       July 1999 - June 20, 2010

It is with deep sorrow that we had to help our beloved "Honey" a.k.a. "Honeys Kaleeyak" over the Rainbow Bridge this afternoon.  She is now at peace.  Honey,
you have met brother Ringo, many cousins and many friends. Run free sweet princess!

When you  tire, sleep at the feet of the master, and
look down on us inadequate mortals without condemnation. You know in your heart of hearts that we did our best to give you a safe and happy home and all of the love that this house could provide.   There comes a time in every creatures life when ones burden becomes to heavy to bear. Your time had come sweetheart.  The cancer was eating
at you - your frail old legs no longer functioned properly and at fourteen years old we did what was best for you.
So Honey, you have left us for a better place. You will be dearly missed, but never out of our thoughts.
So dear princess, sleep well, and

THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING US FOR YOUR
FOREVER HOME..

Honey         September 22, 1996 - October 7, 2010

It is with a very heavy heart that I post that my sweet blue brindle baby Aoife went to the Rainbow Bridge today.
I found her in distress today and took her to the vet but they couldn't save her.  Ever since the passing of her sister, Lani, in August...Aoife has been much more clingy and almost like she knew the end was near.

I treasure every single day I got to spend with her.   I was lucky enough to love be able to love her.   She was an 8 1/2 yr old brood mama who was most definitely NOT cat safe! If y'all remember her at the beach these last three years, she would perk up at the sound of any small dog!  She cracked me up!  Over these last few months, she has become my third leg....really sticking close.  I must admit that I have loved every minute of it.  I am so thankful that I got to enjoy these last two years of her life giving her all the love in the world and watching her take joy in the wonderful, relaxing life of retirement.  I believe she appreciated it more than most!  I am already missing her terribly and I find it difficult to find the words to say goodbye.  I am trying to take joy in the fact that she is running free at the bridge with her sisters Lani & Asia.  I love you so much, Aoife.  You have left a huge hole in our hearts and we mourn for you with the utmost love and respect for such a wonderful, loving, beautiful girl.

Run Free with your sisters.   We will remember you always..

Aoife     January 12, 2000 - October 12, 2010

Giles  was a special boy from the moment he entered our lives eight years ago.  It's hard to put into words what made Giles special so I won't try. 

Giles came back into GRFT after 6 years and the Haley- Stafford household at the age of 9. I knew, even before we signed the adoption papers, that he would spend his remaining days with us.

Someone once told me that even though they had dogs when they were growing up, all sorts, shapes and breeds none had ever evoked the emotions that they have for their greyhounds and how their hearts had been taken by this gentle, special breed.  I think that is a fitting explanation for the impact that Giles had on our lives.
 

Giles will be remembered with much love and will be missed by all who knew him. We are grateful that we had that second chance with him and will take comfort from the fact that he is welcomed by his sisters, Millie and Sasha and brother Jake as well as all his GRFT friends at the bridge.

Run free, without pain and forever in our hearts dear Giles.

Giles       May 1, 2000 - December 6, 2010

Hunter, like so many others chose us to be his family.  We met at the end of October 2002 when we had gone to see a small female.  Hunter demanded scratches and would gently swat with his paw with a pitiful plea with his brown eyes.  Once he had mom in his pocket, he moved on to Dad Bruce who soon also fell victim to his charms.  By evening’s end we know he would be ours.

Hunter was the perfect dog, happy just lying on his pillow or playing with his monkey and stomping on it to make it “talk”.  He loved camping and his ears perked up at the mention of the word.  He always wore his “yappy camper” hat.  Everyone in our camping group loved Hunter and will miss him.   He was anxious to please, obedient and never disappointed us.  We know that we enriched Hunter's life by giving him a home filled with belly scratching and love but we also know that Hunter enriched our life by always being happy to see us, nudging us to pet him, leaning against us in love and sighing with complete confidence that he was safe with us. He knew something that day 8 years ago that we came to realize too.   The three of us were meant to be together.  He will be greatly missed.

Hunter   May 9, 2000 - January 12, 2011

We lost our girl Bartlett today. She was 15, and she was part of our family for almost 11 years.   Bartlett (CDs Flo) was amazing from the first day with me through her last hours.

When Bart first came into the house, she bounded in and immediately jumped up on my kitchen table!!  Wow, that was a statement to stand there defiantly with four paws firmly planted on the table top!!

With a little patience, training, and understanding, Bartlett became a wonderful companion and even a registered therapy dog.  We had almost 11 years with Bart--10 of those years with Steve, 8 with Bailey, and 2 with Mighty.  We spoiled Bart over the last few days, and Steve even brought home a biscuit and gravy, bacon, and eggs for her to have today.  We came home tonight and opened a bottle of champagne to celebrate Bart's life.  She was a great member of our family, and we'll certainly miss her.

Hugs to all of our friends in greyhound rescue--both human and canine!

Bartlett     November 7, 1995 - January 19, 2011

CH ELIJAH

Eli was my first greyhound. I had gone to the meet and greet with my mind set on bringing home a little girl. Instead, I walk in and this big  whiney black boy comes up and leans right into me.  He just looked up at me with those loving eyes .and my heart was his. Then the antics began...as he jumped up and tried to knock over the gerbil display! LOL

That loving, welcoming, not-a-care-in-the-world attitude is what I remember most about Eli. He has known every foster that has passed through our doors and welcomed each one of them exactly the same....with the kind, loving eyes and attitude that they quickly learned from him how to enjoy this wonderful life called retirement. He was also quick to teach them that he was the boss of this house.

He stole my heart on that August day four-and-a-half years ago and came into my home and my life and changed me forever.  My heart will always be his and it has grown so much because of him. He was most definitely my heart dog...

This house is much too quiet without him....he was definitely my whiney dog. But that was music to my ears.....and I miss it. He was quick to tell me exactly what he thought of whatever I was doing.....and it will take time to get over that.I love him so much and can only hope that he is running pain-free with his sisters Asia, Okelani & Aoife and many many cousins.

My heart is aching and my tears are flowing.....I miss him more than I can say with words.....

We love you Eli.  

Eli         January 19, 2002 - January 31, 2011

Racey came into our lives as one spooky boy who had special requirements and needs.  Racey found his special person that was willing to jump through hoops, build a life around his needs and through that love and patience Racey became a confident playful Greyhound.

Racey touched many lives and opened may door so that others could feel the love of that special mom.

Run free our "Racey Dog" we love you forever.

Racey     June 7, 2002 - February 18, 2011

Josie       February 29, 2000 - March 8, 2011

It is with a very broken heart that I let Gracie Lou go to the bridge at 10:10 AM Friday, March 18, 2011. 

The Lumbar Stenosis had become progressively worse and her back legs and hips were no longer working.

I don't know what I will do without her as she was truly my heart dog. 

A major portion of my heart and life left this side of heaven today.

Gracie was a beautiful girl inside and out.  She will always be loved.

Gracie Lou  October 28, 1998 - March 18, 2011

Reagan as she was know by all that knew and loved her left her family today, May 6th of 2011. 

Reagan    September 12, 2004 - May 6, 2011

Allie     August 1, 1997 - June 18, 2011

LEGS WINGER

My precious baby girl crossed rainbow bridge 7-12-11.  She lost her battle with histiocytic sarcoma.  It was so hard to let her go but, she could not go on.

Lilly was a quiet gentle soul, so elegant and regal with a presence that everyone loved.

When asked if she was a rescue I said yes but the truth is she rescued me.  Lilly was my constant companion.  She went to work with me everyday and traveled the country showing horses. With her kind face and beautiful color people always wanted to pet and talk about her.

Lilly had two funny little dances. One for let’s go outside NOW and one was her happy to see you dance.

We had a little over a year together which wasn’t enough. I am so grateful to everyone at GRFT who brought Lilly into my life and who offered their support when she became ill.

Lilly your no longer in pain so run free my sweet baby girl. My broken heart aches and I will forever love you. Be waiting at the bridge for me Miss Lilly doing the happy dance.

Lilly    May 22, 2002 - July 12, 2011

Koko was a beautiful shy little girl when she enter her new home on May 2, 2004 at almost 2 years old.  She was able to celebrate her birthday in her new home with her family.  She opened the world of Greyhounds and has been able to help many on their journey in retirement.

Koko was a trouper to the end and was able to say good-bye to friends and family just days before heading to the Rainbow Bridge.  She has truly left her mark on many.

Run free Angel Girl and know that you will always have a spot in our hearts.  Never to be forgotten and always loved.

Koko        May 12, 2002 - July 27, 2011

With a very heavy heart it pains us to say that after seven incredible years of knowing Luke, we had to let him cross the Bridge.

We rescued Luke in July 2004 after we met him at a GRFT Meet & Greet at a car lot gazebo near Sevierville.  We felt he chose us that day.  He walked up to us and didn't leave our side, and while we were warned that he was very skittish and would need some help transitioning into daily life as a sweet and lovable dog, we were committed to give him the life he deserved.  From the moment we met Luke, he changed our lives.  We have spent seven wonderful years doting on him, playing with him, taking him with us to work...and have been blessed to see him transform from Spookie Lukie into this amazing, compassionate, goofy and incredibly happy gentleman of a greyhound.  Words can't express what he brought to our lives.  Knowing that it was time to let him go, and being lucky enough to love him, kiss on him, and hold him as he was moving on was something I will never forget.  Although that was hard, the hardest part has been being at home and not having him here.  There is really an empty space in our home where his big physical presence used to be.  He was the most gentle soul, always there for a nuzzle and a hug and a grin.  We miss him xo much. 

Run Free precious Luke.

Luke    August 23, 2002 - August 9, 2011

One day I decided I needed someone in my life to keep me going and happy.  I went shopping with my daughter Janet and my granddaughters Jessica and Madisyn.  We entered a store in Knoxville, Tennessee that was full of people.  I noticed a male looking at me so I walked over to him and stopped to talk to him.  He was very tall and just looked at me as if I was the one for him.  I thought that he might just be too tall for me; but he had these beautiful almond colored eyes that made my heart melt.

I turned to the people around him and asked them each to share something about this man; to me he looked like a giant, skinny rat.  They asked me if I had ever met this guy before because they said he acted like we had met somewhere before and he had fallen in love with me at first sight.  They spoke very highly of this fellow.  I looked into those big almond eyes and just knew he was really the one for me.  At that moment he no longer looked like a giant rat.  I just knew he was going to be mine.  He had a very soft spirit and love was all over his face.

I knew when Static left this world I would miss him.  Static has been the best four legged male companion a woman could ever have.  He has helped me in so many ways of healing after cancer.  I was not so lonely with Static around.  He made me laugh so loud sometimes.  Thank you God for placing me in the right place at the right time to meet the love and companion for my life.  He is my winner, I sure do love him.   I am so grateful to Greyhound Rescue Foundation of Tennessee.

My love was laid to rest on Monday, September 5, 2011 after his right rear leg snapped in half, it showed signs of cancer.  I had to let him go.  I was so very blessed to have had him with me for the past eight years.  Yes it is hard and I miss him.   I love you Static and I will see you when I get to Heaven.

Static   August 12, 2000 - September 5, 2011

Trudy is her name and she was a precious little girl that needed love, patience and understanding.  She found all those things with her family and became a cherished companion.

Trudy helped many newly retired Greyhounds learn to become companions and feel secure in a home and family environment. 

Trudy will live on in many hearts, never to be forgotten but remembered for her gentle spirit and for helping her mom overcome her fear of dogs. 

Run free precious girl.

Trudy     January 14, 2004 - September 8, 2011

The last 2 days have been rough as he lost the use of his legs. Amazingly he kept his appetite for Arby's and hotdogs. I prayed all night that God would take him in his sleep to be an Angel, but apparently SJ wanted us to help him instead. Our vet and his assistant, SJ's friend, came out to the house and we all helped him make the journey. He is our first greyhound to cross over and I would be lying if I said it wasn't killing us. There will never be a hound more dramatic and non-greyhoundish as SJ was-he will be forever and always in our hearts. He was a brave little soldier until the end and we are so very proud of him. I would say that he will be running free without any pain now, but that's a lie. He never liked to run or do anything active, so we imagine him unmaking someone's bed, watching a movie, and eating an Arby's beef and cheddar-all pain free of course. We chose to cremate him, so that he will be with us where ever we go. Hug your hounds for him tonight.   Run Free Precious Boy.
 

SJ     July 4, 1999 - October 11, 2011

This little girl came into our home as our first attempt as  "Foster Parents".  She was our second grey.  It was amazing how quickly the 2 girls became attached to each other.

Shortly after she arrived, she suffered a very sever seizure.  The vet worked to identify the cause and she began taking medication.  She lived out the next 6 years seizure free but after all of this, we were so attached that we couldn't let her go for adoption.  We called GRFT and told them we wanted to adopt her. 

Kaylee was our special girl, sleeping on the end of the bed.  She always had to put her chin or a paw on your leg.  She was gentle and friendly to everyone.  She loved her toys and everyone else's as well.  Thank you Charter Cable for replacing those remotes.  On an outing to Liz & Dave Hixson's Kaylee roamed the rooms gathering up all the dog toys.  She even "gently" took the toys away from the other greys as they played.  She put them al in a pile then lying on top so the other greys couldn't take them back. 

In October she was diagnosed with cancer.  We took her home and promised to let her go when it was time.  We miss you "Sweet Pea"  Run Free.

Kaylee Sue "Sweet Pea"  August 27, 2003 - October 28, 2011

Our wonderful Lizzy has crossed to the Rainbow Bridge.  She joins her sister Josie and the many others we have all cherished over the years.

When we were looking for another Greyhound after losing the last of our pair, we saw Lizzy on the list and didn't consider her as she was six but we kept coming back to her (that winsome face and big eyes).  Once we met her she was ours.  What a joy we would have missed if we had passed her by.  Lizzy was a wonderful companion, so loveable, so much fun, with a real joy for life and a real snuggler.  Over our almost six years she was with us her playful side emerged and she learned to play with toys with a puppy-like joy, and run through the house as if it were an open field.  Always leash walked, she much preferred running in the house to running outside.

Mike teased us about having the "perfect dog" and, we believe we did.

Lizzy had many names...Wizzy, The Lizard, Sweet Girl, Lizzaful, BooBoo, Stinky but mostly just Lizzy.  She brightened our lives from the day we brought her home.  A perfect name could have been "Sunshine Girl" because that is what she brought us every day of her life with us.  She did not have anything but joy and love to give.  Lizzy's love of food was legendary and when it was time to eat she never hesitated to remind us that we needed to get a move on.  We often said that as long as Lizzy was eating she was good but if she started not eating we knew we were in trouble., that turned out to be true.

Goodbye beautiful girl.  We will always love you and miss you.  You were simply the best!

Lizzy   February 29, 2000 - November 6, 2011

Selma came to live with our family in late June 2005 when Janis asked me to foster Selma for two weeks while her foster mother was out of town.  I knew after two days she was here to stay.  When we first met, Selma and I had a special bond. She would often lie in the kitchen while I was cooking or baking, and, more than once, Selma thought she was a lap dog. She tried so hard to curl up in my lap, but could never manage it with her long, lanky body.
Selma loved to romp, bark and play but, she also enjoyed curling up in her favorite blanket or stretching out showing her belly on the living room rug....always keeping a close watch with those soulful, big brown eyes.
Selma loved long walks, watching squirrels, birds and deer, and she never forgot to tell me when it was time for dinner (she always "turned on" her alert mode at least 45 minutes before it was time to eat! )
And, always, Selma never missed placing her head on the  bed to say "good morning" or "good night."
For six and a half years, Selma was my perfect little girl.
On Oct. 17, 2011, sweet Selma's vet diagnosed her with bone cancer.  We brought her home and pampered her more than ever, giving her all our love and anything she wanted to eat.
Sweet Selma passed over the Rainbow Bridge on Nov. 6, 2011.  Selma will always be in our hearts.

Selma    August 19, 2000 - November 6, 2011

It has been over a year since we bid farewell to our dear girl Jazzy, and she took her journey across the rainbow bridge. Though to some, it may seem odd to wait this long to post an obit for her, I wanted to be sure I had time to appreciate all the things she had left in our lives.  Physically, Jazz was an unusual specimen.  Much more stocky than your average grey, but not fat and full of energy.  She was very polite, always ready to snuggle, and loved sharing sleeping quarters with her best friend, my son David.  David and Jazz
became fast friends from the get-go, and had that special bond that only exists between a boy and his canine companion.  
  Jazzy was one of those excitable hounds that would sometimes just run in circles in one spot, first in one direction, then the other. She was very fond of her family and seemed to have that knack of knowing when any of us really needed her company.  She was a magnificent companion and when she left us there was a huge hole in all of our hearts. We all were aware that a dog with Jazzy's unique
ability to know just when we needed her companionship most, and her gift of being able to be a comfort to all of us was very rare.  I asked David what he would have wanted people to know about Jazz, and he replied, "That she was a lover".   He really hit the nail on the head.  Jazzy was a dog full of love, that would share that love at the drop of a hat. Now that Jazz has joined her brother Dewey, they have been able to romp and play free of the burden of the cancers that took their lives at such a young  age, and if I know Jazz she is piling up lots and lots of love in that huge reserve sack of hers to lavish us with when we are reunited again one day.  
  Jazzy,  we all now bid you our final farewell till we meet-up the next time where there will be no more seperation, no more sadness, and no more tears.  We all love you very much.
 David, Chris, Betty and Dave  

Jazzy    July 15, 2001 - November 13, 2009

"Sister"  August 3, 1998 - January 6, 2011

We lost our sweet Avie this morning.  She began having trouble breathing late yesterday afternoon….panting…pacing…..and in general acting so unlike herself.   We got into the vet early this morning and after blood work and x rays it showed that she was in heart failure.  It was very sudden and unexpected as she just doing her evening run 2 nights ago.  She was such a nice, pleasant and friendly dog and we are going to miss her like no other…..Annie will be lost without her buddy.  Avie was almost 12 and we know in our hearts that she had a wonderful life with her forever family. 

If it wasn’t for the wonderful work that you all do for the greyhounds we would have never met her…..We want to thank you all……..Colleen and Max

Avie    August 14, 2000 - January 21, 2012

It is hard for me to say this, and I knew I would have to say it one day, but my beloved "Emily", has gone over the Rainbow Bridge.  Emily was Number 50, adopted back in 2000.  She was 14 years old and would have been 15 in April.  She was such a gentle, loving companion and was always with me when I was alone and going through tough times.  She seemed to always know what I needed.  Towards the end, her sight was going, she couldn't hear and she could hardly stand without having to crouch down.  She had lost 15 pounds, but still enjoyed eating.  Every once in a while she would gallop in the yard and then collapse for a while to rest.  She knew beyond a doubt that she was my baby and that I love her.  She was always pampered.  I will miss her terribly.   Connie

Emily    May 15, 1998 - January 19, 2012

I first met Lori in Chattanooga at a M&G that GRFT was having in 2004.  She was on the outside of the group, looking a bit sad and being protected by her foster mom.  Our eyes met and I knew that we were bonded for life.  She was older and not the prettiest dog in others' eyes but for me she was perfect. 

I adopted Lori and she immediately took over the house.  She took every step I took and became my "Velcro girl".  Even now I look behind me expecting to see her there.  She knew she had found her forever home. 

Lori began to have mini-strokes and lost control of her back legs.  I realized I was being selfish keeping her so I held her in my arms while the vet sent her to the Rainbow Bridge and vowed I would see her again.

While my life will never be the same without her, I cherish the time that we had together  I will miss her forever.  She was my best friend.   Diane

Lori       March 18, 1998 - November 23, 2011

Hiball won our hearts from the first day when we took her home as a foster and we knew we were keeping her that night.  She loved to give delicate kisses to everybody she met.  She was the only dog I know that enjoyed giving the people doggie kisses and ignoring the other dogs at a dog park.  Hiball won the title of the Sweetest Dog in the whole world!  Dainty in everything she did. 

Each leaves a special memory behind.  Hiball's is her sweetness and delicate little kisses that she bestowed on everyone.  I remember when she tried to sit on Mike's lap at PetSmart.

Hiball will be missed so much.  Run free beautiful girl.

Hiball        September 18, 2001 - January 30, 2012

Greyhound Rescue Foundation of Tennessee

P.O. Box 32554
Knoxville, TN  37930-2554

www.greyhoundrescue.org