A retired racing greyhound who was discovered home alone after his owner unexpectedly passed away has found a new life thanks to the quick-thinking action of Sunderland Stadium.
Badger – aka Deancraft Dynamo – had a short racing career winning one race for trainer Paddy Derwin more than a decade ago before deciding the sofa life was for him.
The loveable black and white dog moved into his forever home shortly after retiring but was discovered alone towards the end of 2025 following his owner’s death where it is estimated he had been without food for as long as seven days.
The police contacted local animal hospital Wear Referrals where Lauren – a member of staff who herself owns a retired racing greyhound – received him into her care before contacting local homing centres to see if anyone could take him in.
After receiving a phone call, staff at Sunderland Stadium quickly helped to identify Badger and – with help from the track’s homing partners and trainer Jackie Teal - were able to help the twelve-and-a-half-year-old hound to begin his journey to a foster home, after a quick visit back to the track to meet everyone.
He has now been united with his new family in the south to live out his final days.
And he didn’t leave Sunderland empty handed either as staff pulled together to gift Badger a festive fleece, a blanket, bed, toys, treats and special food from Wear Referrals to help aid his recovery.
Joanne Wilson, General Manager at Sunderland Stadium, was thrilled with the final outcome.
“It was heartbreaking to see Badger in such poor health for reasons completely beyond anyone’s control,” said Joanne.
“The greyhound racing community is closely knit, and this is a true example of people pulling together to achieve a positive outcome for those we care about most – the dogs.
“Although Badger celebrates his 13th birthday in May, he deserves all the happiness we can afford him and we are so pleased to see him enjoying life in a new home more than a decade after his career at Sunderland Stadium reached its conclusion.
“We wish Badger all the best in his new life, and thank everyone concerned for their help to ensure not only that he wasn’t lost prematurely, but found the perfect home after such tragic circumstances.”
Sunderland Stadium works in partnership with several homing partners to find greyhounds their perfect forever home in retirement.
Further information is available online via www.sunderland-greyhounds.co.uk.
