In ninety-five this boy was born - from the Emerald Isle he came
A handsome strapping brindle lad – ‘Maryville Trixi’ was his name
But in Ireland, he did not stay – for Europe - he was bound
His name was changed to Lopez and to Rome they sent this hound
One day a sand fly bit this boy - whilst at the track in Rome
He developed Leishmaniasis (much later this was known)
But then the racing track went bust and no-one spared a thought
For all the greyhounds kennelled there – who gave their lives for sport.
The future that these racers faced - was nothing short of grim
Hungry, thirsty …left to die – but then along came *GIN!
GIN rescued these abandoned hounds and some to England came
Wolker, Lopez and Pirata – three of these were named.
And Northants Rescue took these boys – a second chance they had
Where Mandy loved and cared for them – her three ‘Italian’ lads
For Wolker and Pirata too – a home for each was found
Whilst Lopez waited patiently – would no-one want this hound?
But then to ‘Tailends’ Lopez went - to Devon – by the sea!
He’d found a home with Angela – and pals for company.
This boy was nothing like a dwarf – (of Snow White story fame)
But not the brightest spark was he - so ‘Dopey’ he became.
And here his life began anew – with sand dunes to explore….
And one day Dopey wandered off and ventured to the shore
He came across the surfing school – a super sport it looked
And had he had some cash with him – some lessons he’d have booked!
Hang gliding fascinated him – he asked if he could try
But Angela said firmly “No” – it’s only pigs that fly!

But happiness did not last long … this poem will reveal
Lesions started to appear – these wounds would just not heal
And as he didn’t feel too well - he had to see the vet
They checked him over thoroughly and ran a lot of tests
Then Dopey’s limbs began to swell and drugs the vet prescribed
Whilst Angela hoped desperately the swellings would subside
Some days were good and some were bad – she wished she could do more
And when she was in town one day – she paused outside the door ..
of a Chinese herbalist, she ventured forth in hope
And told the girl of Dopey’s plight - but she no English spoke
But someone who could help was there - to translate English words
And Angela then left the shop with a bag of Chinese herbs
At first this treatment seemed to work (it cost a lot of money)
And to help his ulcers heal – Angela bought honey.
Some times were those of dark despair but there were other days
When Dopey bounced with happiness and seemed to want to play
Rolling over on his back and acting like a fool
But sadly – it was not to be – for life can be so cruel
Just when it seemed there may be hope – (his sores had almost healed)
The Leishmaniasis took hold and Dopey’s fate was sealed
His abdomen swelled painfully….. the vet was called and so
Angela knew in heart – she must let Dopey go
With deep regret and sadness too - there was no choice to make
The time had come to say ‘Goodbye’ - For Rainbow Bridge awaits …..
For all those souls whose time has come – and life on earth is past
A place of freedom, joy and youth - a sanctuary at last
Dear Dopey if you’re listening – your presence brought great joy
At last you can be free from pain - Rest in Peace dear boy.

By Judy Zatonski
(*GIN - Greyhounds in Need)