Cover Stories Spring 2001

Arizona Greyhound Rescued after Training Accident

Zeke, a 2 year old brindle male, was seriously injured in a training accident at a Tucson kennel Sunday, March 18. The dog reportedly caught the training lure and was thrown over the railing when the lure broke away from the propeller arm. Zeke's life.
threating injuries included a severed artery, broken upper jaw, shattered leg, and multiple lacerations.

The trainer brought Zeke to an emergency veterinary clinic for treatment. Medical costs were estimated at more than $2,000, which the trainer could not afford. The vet on duty, Dr. Meegan Stapleton, contacted Suzanne Waldenberger of Arizona Greyhound Rescue for possible help. Waldenberger was told that Zeke would die within the hour unless funds were found to repair the artery. The trainer, who had stayed at the clinic, agreed to put up $500 to stabilize the dog. The repair of the artery bought Zeke another 24 hours while Waldenberger scrambled to find emergency funds. She sent out a call for help via email.

Maggie McCurry of Wings for Greyhounds responded Monday morning. She then contacted Phoenix based Fast Dogs Fast Friends, a new adoption group operating out of the Bethany Animal Hospital in Phoenix, who volunteered to underwrite Zeke's medical care. McCurry flew into Tucson Tuesday morning and brought Zeke to Phoenix. Debi and Woody Woodard of Fast Dogs Fast Friends met the plane and rushed Zeke to the hospital. Zeke has since undergone several surgeries, including the amputation of his front left leg. He is now recovering in foster care at the Woodard's home.
Readers can view photos of the rescue flight at

ww.wingsforgrevhounds.org and follow Zeke's recovery progress at www.fastdogsfastfriends.com.