Greyhound trainers attached to Oxford Stadium have adjusted their weekly routines amid bone-chilling temperatures which has seen rural parts of the county hit -10c overnight.
The UK-wide freeze has prompted the sport to implement its Cold Weather Policy in recent weeks which instructs GBGB licensed trainers to provide additional bedding, extra food and heating to all greyhounds.
Among the trainers who have changed their daily operation is Rosie Tungatt. The 26-year-old has been based at Oxford Stadium since the Cowley venue reopened its doors in September.
She explained the cold affects some greyhounds more than others, although all dogs are provided with extra layers and fed warm meals amongst other measures to keep them comfortable at home.
“The main change we make is feed,” said Rosie. “A greyhound’s metabolism works much harder during the cold, so we double their breakfast and provide extra biscuits to keep their weight consistent.
“We’ve installed dehumidifiers in all kennels to help with condensation and change their bedding, so they have something fluffy and padded to keep warm in at night – just like humans.
“The vans which transport our dogs to the stadium are fitted with heaters too, so the inside temperature is kept above 10c at all times and the kennels when we arrive to race are the warmest place in the whole facility!
“The hot soup goes on at 5.45am and we won’t leave the kennels which are based on the site we live in until 10.30pm. As a modern-day greyhound trainer, you’ve got to be committed, passionate and love your dogs.”
Rosie has 18 greyhounds in her care including several dogs who have recently retired from the sport and now live with her permanently at her home in Portsmouth.
As one of the sport’s youngest trainers, she described feeding, general care and offering plenty of love and attention as the three key factors to being a successful trainer. This includes regular walks with each dog clocking up to seven miles daily.
“I used to sleep in the kennels with the dogs when I was younger, that’s what they mean to me,” said Rosie. “When their racing careers end, I find it hard to let go so we have three retired greyhounds living at home and another five at our kennels who are so content.
“I could never work a typical job and the routine of being a greyhound trainer is great for me. We don’t get lay ins, there are no holidays and it’s a physically demanding role, but the upside is we get to look and care for these incredible dogs 24/7.
“I truly believe a dog that loves its trainer will give that extra 10% on track. You can see it in their eyes at the pick-up after a race, they’re so excited and pleased to be fulfilling their instinct which I wish all working breed pets could experience.”
Further information about the GBGB’s Cold Weather Policy is available to read here.
