Training classes saw her ok with puppies and small breeds – and into the Greyhound Walks Display Team. She humoured me though didn’t enjoy it much and let me know by regularly leaving the arena mid display. I listened and took her out of the team.

She was assessed and accepted as a PAT dog – a role at which she excelled. Adoration from her public she loved! Absolutely nothing fazed her – even one tiny child who poked an inquisitive little finger up her nose! – and she never tired of standing patiently while stroke victims, dementia patients, disabled adults and children fussed over her.

Amazingly good natured with other dogs, she would share a walk, toys – even her bone - with any of them.

We did everything together, she loved nothing more than simply to be with me, even if it meant waiting in the car, though she was equally confident being home alone on those occasions it was best to leave her. Lively, excitable, enthusiastic, gentle, sociable, a kind temperament beyond belief, Mel was my lovely companion and housemate for 5 years until osteosarcoma struck in January 2011.

Familiar with this disease, I knew she could have just weeks – at most a few months. The old saying was never more true. “Plan as if you’re going to live forever and live as if you’re going to die tomorrow”. We spent the time doing all our favourite things – beach, woods, fields and visiting her many friends - close and comfortably together. Cheerful, friendly, affectionate, easy company to the very end, Melody was a delightful dog..

She left for the Rainbow Bridge gently and peacefully after we shared a roast lamb lunch on 30th March 2011.

She runs free with my blessing xx

Geraldine Vinall

She matured into a beautiful, well behaved example of a greyhound, and enjoyed a short time in the Display Team. Her sudden loss so soon after my own cancer scare was a terrible experience, but much softened by the compassion and concern of all in Greyhound Walks.

Thanks to you all, and Run Free Dana.

Terry Gant

ASBO Emma soon lived up to her nickname!Bossing her companion dog Worzel around,barking for attention(embarrassing in the fun dogshow rings but Boy did she win a lot of rosettes-probably to shut her up!)

A sweeter greyhound you couldnt wish to meet when she was on her best behaviour. Her ASBO reputation continued unabated as she chewed anything and everything around the house, a box of tissues being her favourite,the mess she could make in two minutes!!

Nibbling my arm once for attention as the barking wasnt working, she actually bruised my arm and pierced the skin, try explaining that to your other half!Pushing other greyhounds out of the way at Greyhound Walks,other greys soon discovered you dont mess with an ASBO!

Sadly her time was cut short when I discovered a lump on her shoulder which turned out to be cancer. The best herbal and Vet treatment couldnt fight such a vicious disease and the end was very quick. I couldnt ever see you in pain so we did the kindest thing we could do ... we gave you dignity in your passing by allowing you to be surrounded by those that loved you to the end.

Ive been lucky to be owned by several greyhounds in my lifetime but Emma, you were special. Bet you're bossing all those greyhounds about over the Rainbow Bridge right now!!

Miss you dreadfully, until we meet again xXx

Wendy Marsh

Everyone loved Maya, especially the way she jumped up and put her paws on your shoulders for cuddles.

We couldn't believe she'd been overlooked and waiting at the kennels for 6 months for a home, when she was such a gorgeous dog. She was a shy girl and a little nervous, but was started to come out of her shell and was doing well at dog training classes. Her proudest moment was coming second in her age class at the Crayford Greyhound Show in August 2007.

On 16th September 2007 we took Maya away with us to Exmoor for her first holiday. We'd taken her out for lovely walks in the area and visited Minehead (where the sea wall picture was taken) on 17th September. Sadly on the evening of 17th September Maya was taken very ill extremely suddenly, and we rushed her to the vets. Within the space of 26 hours she'd gone from running about in the cottage garden, playing with us as usual, to passing away on the operating table.

She was only 4 years old and it came as such a nasty shock to loose her in such a way. We miss Maya very very much, and not a day goes past where we don't think of her and some of her funny little ways. Run free at the bridge our beautiful brindle girl.

Kelly Perryman