An update: we took the dogs over to Cosmeston this morning. They ran, well like greyhounds round and round in the paddock, with Booty hurtling as much and as happily as Andy. To see them like that is one of the most uplifting things I can imagine - it's such sheer joie de vivre, coupled with genuine awe at the speed, cornering and braking - all impressive, especially the parachute effect of the helicopter tail when they brake heading at the gate at the last minute. Both were as mud encrusted as I have ever seen them when we finished our walk. Came home and decided to administer that most hated of greyhound rituals - the BATH. Water was filthy running off them, but they are now both clean, fragrant and naked without collars while drying. Non Christmas purple collars will be replaced when they are dressed later. They give us such reproachful looks when they come out and the water makes them look spikey like punk dogs.