We had to put our dog down today. She was 11 years, 3 months and 5 days old.

Born to parents My Rooster and Dog Dog Dare on June 28, 2001, OHow She Shines came into this world ready to race – well, almost. She finished fifth in her first race, holding her position. Her second race was a third place podium finish – benefitting from a “quick to rail” position. In only her third race, OHow She Shines (aka Shine) won her first race.

Shine went on to run 94 more races, placing first in thirteen of them, and In March of 2005, she packed her things and joined Shelly and Al McCullough to live out her retirement dreams of getting two square meals, an evening snack and doing pretty much nothing but sleep in between.

Shine sleeping…go figure.

It was quite an adjustment for her at first though. Greyhounds aren’t accustomed to many every day things humans are used to, like stairs, laminate-hardwood floors and car traffic. During her first few walks around the block she would just stop, refusing to move another step (food would always be reward for movement though). And she was always trying to show off her Alpha side as well, barking at other dogs at the park. Squeaky toys didn’t stand a chance against her either, lasting a day (if they were lucky) before they ran out of squeak. Never afraid to mark her spot, she immediately located the only private corner of the back-yard and converted it to her own personal bathroom, thus giving that spot the ever-lasting nick-name of “Poo Corner”.

But as she settled into her glory years she also started to come into her own personality. She became such a relaxed dog that at times she had to be nudged awake to see if she was even alive. One time she even slept in the corner of a room while a party of 20 people was happening all around her. Often, during her walks around the block, people in cars would look over at her and smile. Passer-by’s would comment on her beautiful brindle coat and ask numerous questions about her and greyhounds in general.

peek-a-boo Shine

She had as many nick-names in retirement (Shine, Bubba/Bubs, Goose and Stick Legs) as she did beds in the house; one in the bedroom, kitchen and living room, and two in the basement – because Greyhounds need their beds! She was never afraid to show her affection either, often swatting her paw if you stopped petting her, or cutting someone off in the hall and pressing her head against their thigh to try and receive pets.

Regal Shine

Shine enjoyed her retirement immensely and made a life-lasting impression on at least two people.

We love you Shine and hope you find many friends over the rainbow bridge.

We’ll miss you Shine!