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With the success of the Free the Snoot campaign, we felt it was important to showcase stories of responsible pet ownership – thank you to Max’s parents for sharing:

This is Max, an 8 year old rescue greyhound who found his forever home in 2020.

Max is beautifully placid, well mannered and a complete snuggle bug in the home. He is also fear reactive towards other dogs.

We want everyone to know that regardless of the changes to the muzzling of pet greyhounds, we have no reservations about muzzling Max when out on walks as we know it is the safest option for both us and Max.

We believe that whilst these new regulations are a huge step forward in removing the stigma associated with ex racing greyhounds, we should also remember that these new regulations have now just given greyhound owners a choice, that is the choice to muzzle or not, which is the same choice that all dog owners (regardless of breed) should exercise.

We have been working with a veterinary behaviourist for approximately 12 months and note that Max has come a long way from the boy who would react at a dog so far in the distance we couldn’t even see it yet! But with the help of his muzzle, a pouch full of training treats and vigilant parents looking out for signs that Max is getting close to his comfortability threshold, everyone is able to stay safe and happy.

We wanted to share this story so that anyone in doubt doesn’t feel any pressure to remove their dogs muzzle if they don’t feel its the right choice for their dog. Judge the individual situation and your own dogs behaviour before deciding what’s best.

Finally, if you see a dog out and about wearing a muzzle, please be understanding, give adequate space and be respectful of the owners decision to muzzle their dog.