Greyhounds walk with their handlers before competing at the Caliente racetrack in Tijuana February 18, 2012. All the dogs have been imported from the United States where only seven states still operate dog tracks. Circuit rules demand that all race dogs retire at the age of five, though some run well into their sixth year. Fast Friends, a greyhound adoption group based outside Los Angeles, United States, is committed to finding homes for retired greyhounds from the Caliente racetrack. Every few months, volunteers orchestrate an event called “Retirement Day” where older, slower dogs or dogs that have been weakened from frequent leg injuries officially leave their racing days behind and are given up for adoption. Picture taken February 18, 2012.
Greyhounds compete at the Caliente racetrack in Tijuana.
Greyhounds stand together in a kennel at the Caliente racetrack.
Greyhounds look on from behind a fence in a kennel at the Caliente racetrack.
Greyhounds stand at a fence in a kennel at the Caliente racetrack.
A load of 13 greyhounds arrive onboard a Hound Hauler in Los Angeles for Retirement Day on February 11, 2012.
Fast Friends founder Joyce McRorie helps Bowtie Man the greyhound out of the Hound Hauler.
Greyhound Dave tries to sit on the lap of a volunteer.
Greyhounds have their feet dipped into containers filled with flea bath at Retirement Day.
A greyhound is towel dried by volunteers.
Greyhound Dreamboat, also known as U.S.S. Dreamboat, is given a bath by volunteers.
Courtney Williams (L) introduces her cat Kinko to Robin the greyhound, next to Fast Friends founder Joyce McRorie, as part of a test to determine Robin’s foster placements in Los Angeles.
A girl hugs a greyhound that will be placed in temporary foster care at her home in Los Angeles.
Marcia Hall (L), who has adopted two greyhounds, and Fast Friends founder Joyce McRorie sit in the waiting room of a veterinarian with their dogs.
Urns holding the ashes of deceased greyhounds are seen in the living room of Fast Friends founders Joyce and Tom McRorie.
Two adopted greyhounds relax in their new home in Whittier, California February 21, 2012.
