By Darren Cartwright
Greyhound adoptions are on the rise, as the breed’s popularity as a placid, adoring and “compliant” pet gathers momentum.
More than five greyhounds per week have been rehomed this fiscal year (until June 1) through the Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP).
Overall, more than 240 greyhounds now enjoying life as a family pet since July 1, with rehoming numbers through GAP rising 10 per cent for the first 11 months of the previous fiscal year.
Among the greyhounds rehomed during 2021/22 are Ipswich track specialist Passing Nova, who won all his five races at the course during an 81-start career, and city winner Shian Cody (below).
The former chasers were among almost two dozen greyhounds alone that were rehomed during a recent national adoption day.
The average wait for a greyhound to be available to be rehomed is less than six weeks, although that period is slowly decreasing as word spreads about the breed's affectionate nature, said GAP Operations Manager Leah Kellaway.
It costs $100 to adopt a greyhound, and GAP provides ongoing assistance while checking in with the owners over the first three months of being rehomed, she said.
“They are becoming a more popular breed as people realise, they make great pets,” Leah said.
“So far, we have adopted 243 and that financial year and that is from July, and we have owners who have adopted a dog and returned six to 12 months later and adopted another dog.
“We also have owners who have adopted years ago and have lost that dog and adopted another greyhound.”
Before adopting a greyhound, owners are asked questions about their family situation, social life and if they are homebodies or active, Leah said.
All this information is used to match a greyhound with the needs and lifestyle of their new owners, she said.
“And if they want more of a homebody or wanting a pet to get out and about and take to markets and cafes," she said.
“If a dog is active, we look for someone who is happy to walk them a four-times a day, or if they have an apartment, we may look for an older dog who is more laidback and a bit of a couch potato.”
New owner Paris Hooper, who adopted Passing Nova, now known as Sam (pictured right), said she could not be happier with the ‘pet matching’ process.
“I don’t know how much science there is, but it worked out for me,” Paris said in an upbeat tone.
"He is so placid, so cuddly and friendly."
Before being put up for adoption, each greyhound's behaviour is assessed and health checked at the GAP complex at Churchable, 65km west of Brisbane.
The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) runs GAP and officers contact all new owners three times over the first three months. They also assist over the life of the greyhound.
“At any point, if an owner is having issues or has any questions, they can contact us,” Leah said.
“If their circumstances change and they are unable to keep the dog, we will take the dog back, although we will work them if there are other concerns.”