Greyhound Pets of America Greyhound Pets of America, Inc., is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to finding responsible homes for retired racing greyhounds. GPA/Houston operates a shelter within The Best Friends Pet Hotel. Since there is never a lack of dogs waiting for adoption, potential parents have the opportunity to meet several dogs. It is our goal to find the perfect match for both pet and owner. Except for several part-time kennel employees, we are an all-volunteer organization. With more than 500 active members in the Houston area, our aim is to inform the public on what excellent, loving pets these noble dogs make. The greyhound has its origins deep rooted in the lands that cradled earliest civilization. He first flourished in a countryside of little herbage, where he hunted and relied on speed to escape enemies. Murals and paintings suggest that a dog strikingly similar to the greyhound of today was around some 4,000 years ago. As a vital hunter, the greyhound has been the subject of art and lore throughout the ages. He was the source of sport and entertainment in the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Persia, Greece, and Rome, and later in England and Ireland. Pharaohs rated them first among all animals, both as pets and hunters. The birth of a greyhound in early Arabian culture was second in importance only to the birth of a son. Persians believed they were the only dogs allowed in the next world and privileged enough to give information and evidence against mankind. Mattison has had greyhounds as pets since 1994. She has been a GPA Volunteer since 1996. Lots of people stop me with the greyhounds and say, "Wow, good for you for taking in a greyhound!" Truth is, having these retired athletes as a part of my family is really my priveledge and honor. Their love, sense of humor, and contribution to the family are immeasurable. —Mattison Grey

Look into it. See if a greyhound is right for your family. To find out more, visit the GPA/Houston web site. Mattison's greyhounds, Belle and Kihei, at the Houston Arboretum.

Mattison Grey M.Ed. is a professional business coach, consultant, speaker and trainer. She loves to coach, train and speak to high performers and assist them to perform beyond what they ever thought possible. Mattison has been a professional coach since 1997 and has worked in many diverse environments. Her clients include entrepreneurs, coaches, small businesses, large multi-national firms, athletes and individuals. Mattison is certified as a professional coach by the International Association of Coaching.