Halley died on January 26, 2012, after a short, brave battle with bone cancer. She died at home, peacefully, surrounded by family.
Halley,known professionally as Iruska Paula, was the third of five litter mates born to Skiddy Passion and Greys Statesman on November 16, 1999. Halley traces her sire line back 31 generations to Pilot (b. 1820, UK) and her dam line back 20 generations to Idol Mine (b. 190x, US). Her father’s ancestors spent time in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Australia before settling in the United States in 1964.
Halley raced 51 times at Seabrook in New Hampshire, running her first race in September 2002. Halley won seven races including a personal best of 30.69 seconds over 550 yards on September 6, 2003. She retired from racing in January 2004.
Halley was rescued from Seabrook by Greyhound Welfare, Inc. of Takoma Park, MD and was adopted by Maggie and Bryan Dennis of Arlington, VA in February of 2004. Being fresh from the track Halley had much to learn about stairs, windows, and not getting high centered on the coffee table. In July 2007 Halley met Odin, the love of her life. They have been inseparable ever since. Halley also spent significant time with her near twin and partner in mischief Adela (now of Seattle, WA).
In January 2010 our family moved to Fort Collins, CO where Halley enjoyed the mountain air and ready visibility to neighborhood dogs, bikes, and cats. Halley experienced the world through her nose and never tired of documenting the world around her. Her gentle kindness, welcoming attitude and comforting spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Things that Halley taught us:
•Take time to smell the roses . . . and the trees, and the scrubs, and the fire hydrants . . .
•Sharing breakfast in the morning while watching the sunrise is awesome!
•An afternoon nap is good. It’s even better if we do it together.
•Play with your toys every day.
•Treat everyone you meet as though they are already your friend.