THE ULTIMATE GREYHOUND. Edited by Mark Sullivan.

(1999) 1999 1st U.S. edition. 4to (209 x 284mm). Pp260. Colour and b/w photographs. Green boards, spine titled in white.

A wide-ranging and comprehensive book on the greyhound, looks at greyhounds in art and literature; understanding, rearing and schooling the racing greyhound; adopting retired greyhounds; analysis of breed standards; and includes an extensive A to Z of common diseases and health problems. "Mark Sullivan has recruited a cast of specialists to examine the Greyhound in all its aspects. In Part I, there is an in-depth study of the Greyhound as the King of Sighthounds, comparing its temperament and physique to some of the other sighthound breeds. The beauty of the Greyhound is celebrated with a look at paintings through the ages. In Part II, the world of the racing Greyhound is investigated with insights into the mental make-up of the racing dog, feeding and training regimes, and tips from some of the top trainers in the UK, Ireland, North America and Australia. The retired racing Greyhound deserves very special treatment, and in Part III extensive coverage is given to adopting a former racing dog, the care that is required, and the special help some dogs may need to become fully socialized as family companions. Part IV looks at the show greyhound, with an analysis and interpretation of the Breed Standard, and a special pictorial feature evaluating the appearance and anatomy of show Greyhounds. The health of the Greyhound comes in for close examination in Part V, which gives a comprehensive A-Z listing of diseases and conditions which affect the breed, accompanied with detailed methods of treatment."