In addition, private individuals started rescue programs that now are national in scope. Together, these private rescues and the industry effort place thousands of dogs in new homes each year. However, although these rescue organizations are necessary as the Greyhound racing industry shrinks, the majority of the racers do not deserve the contempt they often receive. Most Greyhound kennel owners treat their dogs well and try on their own to find good homes for the ones that aren't fast enough for the track or have reached retirement age. Many rescue groups have recognized this effort and are working with the owners and tracks to save as many dogs as possible.
Lure coursing Many sighthound owners participate in lure coursing with their dogs.
This sport simulates the dogs' original rabbit-hunting purpose but uses plastic garbage bags dragged along a wire as the lure instead of live animals. It satisfies the dogs' urge to run and provides a certain amount of competition and reward. The American Kennel Club and the individual breed clubs of each sighthound breed offer titles for coursing dogs. A lure course is best set up on a large tract of gently rolling land. It can be stopped and restarted if the dogs lose concentration and veer off course.