This is the third blog post in a series of on location sessions with dogs all over Austin as part of the Tails of the World book project.

Greyhounds. Most people associate speed (and unfortunately racing) with this breed, but I find their sleekness their best quality. Artistically speaking, they have the most beautiful lines and create amazing images just by standing still. Akima, the dog featured in this post, breaks the mold a little bit.

A white tripod greyhound with brindle patches stands alertly on a rustic wooden porch in dramatic lighting.

Akima poses perfectly. Who needs four legs?

Yes, Akima, affectionately known as Kiki by his foster mom, is a tripod. But, that does not stop him. He hopped up and down the stairs at Katherine Fleischer Park in north Austin, and posed elegantly as greyhounds always do. (Maybe not always, as this breed is notorious for hogging the couch, sometimes legs in the air. Not exactly elegant.)

A white greyhound dog stands alertly on a wooden deck surrounded by rustic wooden posts and natural scenery.

Such a happy guy! Akima lets nothing stop him.

If you haven't visited Mary Fleischer Park yet, please go! It is a gem of a park, with a historic homestead, well-maintained trails and the most adorable playscape for kids. The homestead provided the perfect backdrop for Akima's photo session.

A closeup of greyhound dog in profile view.
A white and brindle greyhound dog poses on a lawn with a wooden fence behind it.
A three-legged greyhound dog peeks from a wooden fence in an outdoor setting.

It was hot the day of Akima's session -- it's Austin, and it was August -- and Akima told us he had had enough. He found some grass in the shade that still had a little bit of dew on it. Heaven!

Two small dogs sit together on a rustic brick ledge with greenery in the background.

Taking a rest after a job well done. You deserve it, Akima.

Akima, along with many other adoptable greys, is available for adoption through the Greyhound Adoption League of Texas. Perhaps you'll find your next best friend there. :-)

According to Grey2kusa, as of the date of this blog, greyhound racing is illegal in 44 states, with West Virginia being the only state with operational tracks. Interested in learning more? Want to help shut down the remaining tracks? Visit: https://greyhoundracingfacts.org/

Stay tuned for our next blog post about this project!

It will feature a little guy in a very big world of art.


The 2025 edition of Tails of the World will be available for purchase on November 1, 2025. The proceeds from the book sales will go to the Geelong Animal Welfare Society in Australia.