Freddy’s paw-some journey as Home Run Hounds’ youngest volunteer

Seven year old Freddy Vaughan may be small in stature, but he has the biggest heart when it comes to greyhounds.

By contributor Katie Sambrook
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Last updated

His love for the breed began when he attended an open day at Home Run Hounds Broadmarsh last year, where he instantly fell in love with the gentle breed. Just a few months later, Freddy's family adopted Wizz, one of the charities "homeless" greyhounds, and that was the start of something very special.

7 year old Freddy with his greyhound, Wizz, who donated life saving blood during the recent Pet Blood Bank visit
7 year old Freddy with his greyhound, Wizz, who donated life saving blood during the recent Pet Blood Bank visit

Wanting to give something back, Freddy set about making gift bags, treat boxes and bandanas to sell, raising an incredible £179 for the charity since December 2025. This led to him becoming HRHs youngest junior volunteer, working alongside his mom, Jen. Since then, he has thrown himself into kennel life - helping to clean kennels and paddocks, feeding and grooming the dogs, brushing their teeth and even lending a hand when the Pet Blood Bank visited!

Freddy with HRHs Claire Butler after his recent fundraising at the monthly greyhound walk at Baggeridge Country Park
Freddy with HRHs Claire Butler after his recent fundraising at the monthly greyhound walk at Baggeridge Country Park

Freddy's commitment goes far beyond the occasional visit, choosing to spend his entire February half term break at the Monkspath kennels - including his 7th birthday - caring for the dogs he adores. In a 'full circle' moment, he even attended the races at Monmore Green Stadium, where one of the races was dedicated to him. Already dreaming of working in kennels when he is older, Freddy has become a much loved member of the HRH team. Mom, Jen, says she is deeply moved by the warm welcome he has received since he started volunteering at just six years old, and she has seen his confidence grow week by week.

Always smiling when he's around the greyhounds, even whilst doing the chores!
Always smiling when he's around the greyhounds, even whilst doing the chores!

From fundraising to kennel chores, and then to tucking the greys up for bed, Freddy's kindness never stops. It's safe to say that at Home Run Hounds, the greyhounds aren't the only ones who have found their forever family.

Freddy gets stuck in with grooming and teeth cleaning
Freddy gets stuck in with grooming and teeth cleaning
He's out walking the dogs with mom, Jen, come rain, shine or snow!
He's out walking the dogs with mom, Jen, come rain, shine or snow!
It's clear to see the dogs love Freddy as much as he loves them
It's clear to see the dogs love Freddy as much as he loves them
Freddy even had a race dedicated to him at a recent meet at Monmore Green Stadium
Freddy even had a race dedicated to him at a recent meet at Monmore Green Stadium