Humans and hounds will travel from as far as England for the Greyhound Gathering in Kanab May 18–21. The annual event is one of the largest three-day Greyhound Gatherings in the western United States. Registration is required for those attending the events all weekend, but viewing and petting the dogs is free.
Claudia Presto, founder of Kanab’s Greyhound Gang and organizer of the event, said that while in modern times greyhounds are known for their racing prowess and the abuse and abandonment they suffer when they no longer earn money for their breeders, they’ve historically been treated lovingly as loyal companions of royalty and treasured family members.
“Smart, sweet, silly, and sexy — but enough about me,” Presto said. “Come pet the hounds, they’re waiting.”
Highlights of the event include a parade down Center Street to the strains of “You Ain’t Nuthin’ But a Hound Dog” with hundreds of costumed humans and hounds vying for prizes and attention; Blur of Fur, where greyhounds chase their humans down a strip of grass while being clocked with radar guns by Kanab police; and Dancing with Dogs, accompanied by musical group Mesozoic.
Fundraising activities include over 700 donated items in a live and silent auction and drawing. Hikes, speakers, food, and Best Friends tours round out the weekend.
A complete schedule of events is available at greyhoundgang.org. More information is available from Presto at claudia@greyhoundgang.org or (435) 644-2903.
