Greyhound adoptions set to hit 300 this financial year

The State Government’s Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) is well on track for a record 300 adoptions for the 12 month period from July last year.

Racing Minister Grace Grace said the program run by the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) was going from strength to strength.

“GAP has adopted out 298 greyhounds to new families since July 2016 when QRIC came into effect – an absolutely fantastic result,” she said.

“This is up from the 230 greyhounds that were adopted in 2015-16 when the program was run by Racing Queensland, and well up from the 57 greyhounds adopted in 2014-15.

“Overall, 1,198 greyhounds have found new homes thanks to this fantastic program which is being embraced by more and more Queenslanders.

“Once a dog has finished its career on the racetrack, it still needs the care and attention of a loving owner.

“So if you love dogs and you have a suitable property to house one, we’re encouraging you to consider adopting a greyhound.

“Every dog that enters GAP is temperament tested, de-sexed, wormed, microchipped and vaccinated by a vet.”

Ms Grace is also encouraging dog-lovers to attend a Greyhound Adoption Day in Churchable, west of Brisbane today (Saturday, 24 June).

“GAP’s state-of-the-art Churchable facility is a great place to visit and who knows, you might walk away with a new family pet,” Ms Grace said.

“Saturday is a great opportunity for potential pet owners to meet the GAP staff, see the facility and receive individual attention as they choose their pet.”

QRIC Commissioner Barnett said this Adoption Day will be for those potential new greyhound owners who have pre-registered through the GAP website to meet and take a greyhound home on the day.

“All GAP greyhounds are temperament assessed, so the team can match the right Greyhound to the right family,” he said. 

“The team take into account a family’s lifestyle, regular activities, children, other pets, home environment and so on.

“Approved applicants’ pet dogs will also be welcome onsite, with yards available for staff to facilitate an introduction and mix between the dogs.”

The GAP team will hold the South East Queensland Adoption Day at its Churchable facility at 985 Atkinson Dam Road Churchable on Saturday, 24 June between 10am and 2pm.

For more information, visit www.qric.qld.gov.au

Media contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548