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Greyhound Friends Inc.
167 Saddle Hill Rd, Hopkinton, MA 01748, United States
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Bu
Review №1

We adopted a dog that had serious medical issues that were not disclosed to us, they had to know about. Cost of adoption and veterinary bills we cant recover. Be careful ask for current lab results for blood work. I gave them 3 stars because they have other dogs that need homes and they should be adopted.

S
Review №2

Im sickened by the treatment of these dogs at Greyhound Friends and the board of directors continual denial of the suffering they caused.Alert: The Public Charities Division of the Mass Attorney Generals Office found that Greyhound Friends founder Louise Coleman Louise Coleman breached her fiduciary duty of loyalty to Greyhound Friends through the misuse of charitable funds and that the Greyhound Friends Board of Directors failed to “ensure management and operational decisions were made in the best interest of the organization.

St
Review №3

There is no question that GHFs places many dogs and luckily some have found great homes. however it has come to light that the not so lucky dogs are left without the proper vet care and the dogs are left to languish for months and even years.This place is over crowded. some dogs are left in bathrooms, some are left in the offices, and some are left in very small crates in the back room off the kitchen.Many local Rescues have had to step in and remove these unlucky dogs because they were not getting the help and basic enrichment they so desperately needed.Local Rescues should not have to rescue dogs already in a rescue.The State has closed them down in the past and has just closed them down again. There is currently a criminal complaint filed against the Director, Ms. Colemen for animal cruelty.Just please do a Google news search before you go.Edit as of 3/15/17 there seems to be a push for positive reviews on this companys Facebook page started by contract driver Mr. Rich Hunt. (You can see his request on their Facebook page) Hence you may see an influx of new reviews.This is not about those successful adoptions. This is about the back room dogs being neglected.Again a simple google search will shed some light on their practices.** update the former director was forced by the state to pay back $40,000.00 for using donations meant for the dogs on personal expenses. Talk about violating the trust of generous people who gave thinking it would help the dogs.

Go
Review №4

The kennel is clean and the puppies are very Happy with double size homes while they wait for adoption. They do need volunteers for outside cleaning for spring and summer. Go to GHF site. And you can visit on the weekends. The best place.

Ja
Review №5

I have been adopting dogs from Greyhound Friends for 25 years. My latest was adopted in January 2017. They have the greatest ability to help place you with the perfect dog! They have truly become an extended family. They help save all kinds of dogs from all over the world. They never discriminate against dogs- I adopted a 3 legged dog from them in 2008. Greyhound Friends is one of the best shelters around. I dont adopt from anywhere else.

Ki
Review №6

My family has adopted 4 greyhounds from Greyhound Friends over the past 18 years. We love that GHF takes the time to get to know us, know our normal daily routine, know what type of environment we would be bringing a dog home to before they even let us talk about what, if any, dog would be a good fit for our family. When we adopted our first greyhound, Hope, they made it easy for us to know what we needed to tell our vet. All her paperwork came in a folder and they also went over it all with us before we left. We also received a handful of follow up phone calls from Greyhound Friends after we brought Hope home to make sure everything was going well and to see if we had any questions. It was such a WONDERFUL experience that after we lost Hope we went back and have adopted 3 more from Greyhound Friends. Each experience has been the same. Wonderful, very complete, very enjoyable. You can tell they truly care about each and every single dog and want to make sure they go to the right home. The kennels are always clean, the dogs are very well cared for and loved. I can not say enough wonderful things about Greyhound Friends. They are the BEST!

Da
Review №7

This organization including the founder, staff and volunteers have given 100% to the protection of the Greyhound breed and its members.They work tirelessly to care for; educate on behalf of and promote the responsible guardianship of each individual animal.With a long history of responsible care and stewardship of the Greyhound breed; this organization is one of my favorite to date.

Ka
Review №8

While there is a kennel very close to my house, I have been adopting from Greyhound Friends for 28 years because I trust them more. Any time I have adopted or fostered a dog, they have always been will to take it back if there was an issue. This is not true of all rescues and for my money, is proof that the welfare of the dogs is their prime concern. I have also fostered many dogs from Greyhound Friends. They have been around for many, many years and have done groundbreaking work. They have a nice kennel and have adopted out thousands of dogs.I have adopted dogs that were perfect as pets. I have also adopted two dogs that were for an advanced owner because of behavioral issues and at risk to be in the kennel for a long time. One was so shy he would lose control of his bowels public. The other had fear territorial aggression. I also took in three dogs that were over 12, one of which came with a 10-year-old dog with costly medical issues. I took all of these dogs in before they had been at the shelter for very long because that is how we avoid the issue of dogs being there for too long. For me, they are all awesome pets.I took in those unwanted dogs because Louise takes risks on the hard ones. The old dogs. My first old one was 12 called Riley. He was returned when his owner was having a hip and two knees replaced. He made my Christmas and it was wonderful to tell his owner that her beloved dog was comfortable in my house. One foster called Sasha was a lurcher with a badly broken leg that had been abandoned by Travellers in Ireland. The Irish rescue who sent Sasha said it was impossible to place her in Ireland. The leg was too far gone and had to be removed. I picked her up from the vet. I held her the first night for hours when the pain medication was not strong enough and got her the right medications the next day. Once she was well, I took her to an open house and she was snapped up. I cried for days over my loss but she went to a good home. That is what rescue is. It is stepping up to the task. Supporting one shelter for 28 years is pretty remarkable and something I am proud of.

Sa
Review №9

I have nothing but the best experience. The staff and volunteers were professional and responsive and compassionate.

Ki
Review №10

Weve been adopting from Greyhound Friends for nine years and have brought home three wonderful greys. Weve also volunteered there and visit the kennel regularly. Louise has a special knack for matching adopters with the right dog for them and isnt afraid to turn away those who she feels cannot give the dogs the best life possible. There is a passionate network of staff, volunteers, and adopters providing great care for the dogs and weve received ongoing support after adoption as well. We look forward to adopting many more dogs from Greyhound Friends and continuing to support their rescue efforts.

pa
Review №11

I have been a volunteer for 2 years as a result in searching for support after adopting my first greyhound from a Southern rescue group. In addition 2 months ago I adopted the sweetest 2 year old greyhound from Greyhound Friends. After learning more about the organization I started volunteering because I was totally impressed with the staff and the facility itself. I strongly recommend GHF for those looking for support of a greyhound of their own. The staff will help you find the appropriate hound for your home and lifestyle. Remember Greyhounds as ex-racers are very unique and the average shelter will not be able to provide them with the unique care and shelter that they need.

Li
Review №12

I have adopted 2 dogs from Louise at Greyhound Friends, including my current family member Flash. The care and love all the staff has shown every time Ive visited is significant. They love every dog and take the time to match dog and owner perfectly. I cant say enough, any dog that finds itself at Greyhound Friends is in most loving hands.

Je
Review №13

Ive been introduced to a dog recently that was in very poor condition due to overcrowding in this facility. When looking into it a bit further, you can find that it was not an isolated incident. Although I know without a doubt there have been many good adoptions and animals saved, in my opinion just because you saved 100 doesnt mean forsake the 1. Hoping this facility comes under new management soon and can then move forward in a healthy (not overcrowded) facility.

Ju
Review №14

A great organization run by one of the most experienced, knowledgeable greyhound rescuers in the country. The staff is compassionate, responsive and skilled in matching people and dogs. We have adopted two amazing greys from them in the last 10 years, and continue to tell everyone we meet about their awesome work.

Sa
Review №15

We adopted a dog from GHF four years ago. The management worked with us to match us with the perfect dog. We have since gone back several times to visit and also attend the events. They love and care for all of the dogs and take the time to ensure each dog is matched with the perfect family.

An
Review №16

I have adopted four wonderful greyhounds from Greyhound Friends. The staff are wonderful and the kennel is always organized and clean. My dogs have been the loves of my life and I cannot thank GF enough for bringing them into my life. Absolutely fantastic!

J
Review №17

Greyhound friends is a wonderful rescue. They do a wonderful job finding homes for rescued greyhounds and hounds. Clean kennel and superb staff ! So happy I found my greyhound here :)

Ju
Review №18

A very dedicated rescue that has found forever homes for a very large number of hounds. I adopted my very first retired racer there and was very impressed with how the dogs were cared for and how they made sure each one goes to its perfect forever home.

BO
Review №19

I saw some at the JP arboretum, made my day...Not Everyone is suited for these dogs. The staff take great care of them and only want the best placements possible. Next time you go there, fight for one!. By fighting for one it shows you care and are willing, to take on the challenges. I live in JP MA and I donate almost, every time I buy or sell on eBay. Those dogs were abused in the past, let us show them we care for their futures. GREAT JOB! (8

El
Review №20

When my husband and I wanted to adopt a greyhound last fall, we visited Greyhound Friends. The manager took the time to review our application and talk with us to get to know us and our home/lifestyle in order to match us with the right dog for us. She introduced us to a couple of dogs and we were able to spend as much time as we wanted with them in the kennels large open yard. A perfect match was made and we brought home a wonderful, lovable, silly, greyhound! The manager also provided us with guidance/information in care specific to the greyhounds, answered any questions we had, and even loaned us a crate to help settle the dog into his new home. When we have returned to Greyhound Friends for periodically to visit, our greyhound is always excited to return, “rooing (which means he’s happy) out the window as we turn down the driveway. The manager always greets Albert by name and he is delighted to see her, other staff/volunteers and fellow hounds. The manager and staff are always willing to help or give recommendations anytime we have a question or concern.

Cr
Review №21

My wife Rebecca wrote a review about a year ago. This is a follow-up. We adopted such a loving boy from this place. Louise is a good woman who doesnt just try to find a home for these dogs. She vets people, which is why you find the disgruntled reviews below. People think you show up, pick a dog and go home. No thats not whats going to happen. She takes her responsibility seriously, she loves these dogs, she wants them to go to good homes. She wants to see true dedicated owners take care of these dogs like responsible adults. Unfortunately, not everyone has that determination to adopt these gracious animals. So if you go here with a half hearted commitment to adopt chances are she will see through it. If thats the case dont be upset when she says no. Weve gone to GHF a few times with Smarty and she always comments on his well behaved demeanor. The cages were always well kept and presentable. Weve actually seen Vets there twice, and they always give helpful advice. Louise will facilitate adoption to good homes, not perfect but good. We are extremely glad Louise is the way she is, why put them in bad homes only to have them returned?

Jo
Review №22

Greyhound Friends if Hopkinton, MA has rescued greyhounds from race tracks and other brutal conditions around the world for decades. They provide a safe, clean, and humane haven for greyhounds and other hounds waiting for the right home. Please consider adopting from Greyhound Friends.

ji
Review №23

Best place to get a big dope

M.
Review №24

The people who gave this shelter a negative review are ridiculous. All they are doing is discouraging people from visiting this shelter. I dont care how mean the manager is, its all about the dogs.This place is great compared to many shelters around. Got my dog there and hes healthy and happy.

Ka
Review №25

We adopted a hound mix 2 years ago from GHF. The owner was very helpful in finding a fit that would work with our household of 2 kids + another dog. We have since lost our other dog and are so thankful to have our Rocky Dog.

Re
Review №26

Ive always admired the grit and determination of the founder, Louise Coleman, to the cause of Greyhound rescue. She has helped stop the cruel sport of dog racing in our area. Greyhound Friends takes in discarded/retired/dumped greyhounds and finds forever homes for them. I adoptedy my Haley from GF and I can say this is a top notch rescue with a lot of heart. They are a no-kill rescue. Their volunteers are wonderful too!

Re
Review №27

Had a fantastic experience with the staff here, they are kind and friendly- helped us find a greyhound who is a perfect fit for our family! Take a trip out and spend some time getting to know the staff and the greyhounds here, you wont regret it!!

Ri
Review №28

I volunteered at Greyhound Friends in 2016 . I found the facility to be very clean and safe, the staff to be attentive to the needs of each dog, and the organization having a tradition of matching a dog with the right adopter.

Ch
Review №29

I had adopted a Lurcher, which is a Greyhound cross breed. He was a lovely majestic dog. His history consisted of two prior failed adoptions. He had been at GHF for an extended period of time. The group had concerns & were debating euthanizing him. Im glad they didnt he was such a jewel of a dog. Im glad I had him.

An
Review №30

Over the years, I have adopted 4 greyhounds from Louise Coleman at Greyhound Friends. The most recent one I adopted, Happy, helps by walking with me and helping me with my balance and my mobility. Louise is a wonderful person, these accusations of any sort of cruelty are outrageous and in my opinion, completely FALSE. The animals are so well-cared for and the kennels are large, not some small cage like where the dogs are kept at the RACETRACK. Louises work has been so incredible and I hope any misunderstandings are resolved soon as these statements are simply outrageous. The kennels are large and clean and the dogs are fed well, get exercise and Louise and her staff make every effort to ensure that the dogs are placed with the right people. Louise and Happy have literally saved my life!! AE Haley, Brookline, MA

Pa
Review №31

We adopted our sweet boy Brett last May 2016 , Louise and her staff were wonderful , Brett was in perfect health , Thank You GHF for all you do!!!

Ei
Review №32

Have adopted greyhounds from Greyhound Friends for 20 years. Also volunteer every week. The staff is welcoming & the dogs well cared for & loved.

Jo
Review №33

IMHO Louise Coleman and her staff are A++ and GF is one of the best animal facilities I have ever seen. They rescued my friend Marty from that hell-hole greyhound track at Ebro, Florida (the E.D. State) and he has been with me for 4 years. We always enjoy going back to GF twice a year for open house to reacquaint ourselves with the staff, and other owners and dogs, and there has never been anything the least bit amiss. --- I am a suspicious kind of guy and this whole flap is more than suspicious. I smell a real-estate crook behind the scenes here because GF is a magnificent large property in an upscale area.

we
Review №34

Amazing......we have supported long after our beloved adoptee passed at 12+ because of the work that this dedicated and wonderful woman (with her army) has done! It takes a village to be this successful and save so many dogs but I learned one thing in the last 15 years of rescue........not everyone is for the animals. they are in it for prestige, accolades and sometimes the almighty dollar. Jealous, egotistical, control frieks are everywhere and rescue is no different. Louise Coleman is the real deal and will rise above this!! She has built a wonderful village/army and we support the work she devoted a lifetime to!!

Be
Review №35

This rescue received a cease and desist from the state of MA 2/17, the town of Hopkinton pulled their kennel license. Louise Coleman is being brought up on animal abuse and neglect charges. Dogs were warehouse here sometimes for years on end. Some living in crates in back rooms, getting little to no exercise, human interaction, or mental stimulation. It is my opinion that the people that sat on the board of this rescue are just as guilty as Louise is. Animals were found to have un treated medical issues and even parisites. Animals were brought into this rescue allegedly with incomplete medical docs putting the other dogs in site at risk. Dogs moved from this rescue to other rescues are alleged to have parisites. Such a treatable issue. It is my hope that this hell hole never opens its doors again.

gu
Review №36

Worked with GHF for over 20 years and they are nothing but the best!

mi
Review №37

Greyhound Friends is an amazing clean facility that truly cares about their placements. Since 2010, we have adopted 3 Special needs, older Greyhounds that we know would not have been even considered as a worthy placement by any other kennel.I am so glad GHF Considers these hard to place and special need pups. Every animal deserves one chance, and my understanding is that GHF has placed hundreds of long term and special needs pups in the hundreds in loving homes throughout New England.In addition, there have been thousands of healthy animals placed in the 30 plus years of them doing their great work.We all know other rescues pick and chose their placements. GHF rescues as many of those left behind as they can! Greyhound Friends is really a rescue.Please consider your next animal form Greyhound Friends In Hopkington. You will be so glad you did- I guarantee your life will be changed forever.

gr
Review №38

Have rescued 5 greyhounds over 20+ years. This is a loving and very well run organization!

Ma
Review №39

Our family adopted 2 wonderful Greyhounds from GHFs. Our first, Gambino, was adopted in 2005 and he was fresh off the track of Wonderland. Gambino was 5 yrs. old when the track released him to Greyhound Friends-he won a lot of races, that is why the track kept him so many years- and we were so lucky to get him so soon after his arrival to GHFs. Louise and the staff there made sure he was a good match for our family before we took that sweet boy home and he was the love of our lives!Because we had such a positive experience the first time around we decided to adopt another Greyhound to give our Gambino a companion. We adopted Gypsy in 2006. At 4 yrs. old (won even more races than Gambino) upon her release to GHFs she was fresh off a track in Florida and again we were able to adopt her as the perfect match for big brother Gambino. They were wonderful together and completed our family with an insurmountable amount of love and joy!The people at GHFs work tirelessly to ensure that all the hounds upon arrival to their facility are expertly cared for by a wonderful vet and the staff are always available for support for new and experienced Greyhound owners. The dogs are very well cared for in the facility and are well matched to their adopters. You can contact the facility any time, whether you are new to Greyhounds or have had them in your home for years and GHFs will always be there to lend advice and support in any way that is necessary.If it werent for people like Louise Coleman and her staff we would never have known the joys of these sweet, amazing creatures. Because of GHFs very thoughtful matching process not only do they give these dogs the best chance for a warm and loving forever home, GHFs saves lives in more ways than one!

To
Review №40

Compassionate and caring, and passionate about finding homes for this lovable gentle breed.

Je
Review №41

We went looking for a greyhound here and stopped by to look at the dogs. When we got there the manager (henceforth called Umbridge) seemed extremely uninterested in talking to us and showing us dogs. Despite having had greyhounds before, she kept informing us that we would be incapable of handling them.We also asked to see more out going dogs, Umbridge insisted on showing us shy ones. She again told us that out going dogs would be too much work for us but the shy ones were too shy. A local family of 5 was there and she was doing Allene could to keep hem happy and to adopt a dog. Umbridge even took the dog she was showing us over to the family and gave it to them. After she left one of the other workers helped us and showed us the type of dogs we were looking for. Everyone else was extremely helpful and friendly. Umbridge also said she would call us back about a dog we were interested, it has been 2 weeks and we have yet to get a call.

Jo
Review №42

Me and my girlfriend got here to get a greyhound and were so excited until we met the manager and then it became scary and very nerve-racking. The manager was very condecending and rude right off the bat, made us feel like we were not responsible enough to have a dog period. She kept saying about 20 times I dont think you can handle this dog like he was cujo from hell (she was wrong we walk him without a lease he runs around the yard). I work in sales and deal with all sorts of rude and arrogant people every day but she takes the cake. I understand her job is to get their dogs into suitable homes. Saying that we wanted to get a companion for our greyhound. She of course again was very rude and said we cant handle the dog, and shes not giving it to us!! and hung up on me. She said the dog was too nervous and we couldnt handle it (its exactly what she said last time). We handle our 90 lb greyhound just fine and to say that we cant handle a little 60 lb one is ridiculous! If your looking to get a greyhound here good luck going threw hitler, we almost didnt get the dog because of how she made us feel, everyone else there was awesome and they really care about the dogs and made us feel a lot better about the situation after talking to the aweful women

st
Review №43

I wish I could give this zero stars... Please do not support this (currently closed) shelter. One only has to google Greyhound & friends to find out that theyve been shut down for unsanitary conditions & for neglecting animals. Furthermore, their founder just settled with the Attorney Generals office for $40,000 regarding the funds stolen by the founder from the donors...

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37 Photos
43 Comments
4.4 Rating
  • Address:167 Saddle Hill Rd, Hopkinton, MA 01748, United States
  • Site:http://greyhound.org/
  • Phone:+1 508-435-5969
Categories
  • Animal rescue service
  • Non-profit organization
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:10am–3pm
  • Wednesday:10am–3pm
  • Thursday:Closed
  • Friday:Closed
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:Closed
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