Blacktown couple adopt Kya through Greyhounds As Pets and encourage others to do the same

THERE are up to 10,000 NSW racing greyhounds that will need new homes by July. Blacktown couple Andrew Odd and Mai Son have lightened the load by one, adopting two-year-old Kya.

Andrew Odd and Mai Son say owning a greyhound is low maintenance.

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SHE is the gentle giant who has found a loving home with Blacktown couple Andrew Odd and Mai Son.

The couple decided to adopt a greyhound after the publicity surrounding the State Government decision to end greyhound racing in the state.

The RSPCA estimates there are between 6000 and 10,000 greyhound race dogs in NSW and homes would have to be found between now and July, when the ban takes effect.

Two-year-old Kya is one of the lucky ones.

Mr Odd said the couple had been thinking of getting a pet and started looking into the option of adopting a greyhound after news hit of the ban.

“Part of what appealed to us is the fact they are actually low maintenance,” he said.

“They’re quite happy to laze around.

“They do like to have a bit of exercise, but not a huge amount compared to other dogs. They’re happy doing not much.”

Andrew Odd and Mai Son with greyhound Kya.

He said adopting Kya had turned out to be a great decision.

“She gets a walk every day but usually she’s had enough after about 10 to 15 minutes and then she’s ready to come home for a rest,” he said.

“She’s been really trouble free.”

Mr Odd encouraged others to consider adopting a greyhound.

“I’d strongly recommend it,” he said, “People get caught up with the idea of having a puppy.”

“We were thinking about it ourselves but we ruled it out because of the amount of work involved.

“This has ended up being a really good option for us.”

The couple adopted Kya through the Greyhounds As Pets (GAP) program, which was set up by Greyhound Racing NSW to help rehome as many suitable greyhounds as possible.

A GAP spokesman said for many people greyhounds made wonderful pets but not all of them had been raised with children and other animals, so it was important anyone adopting a greyhound was prepared to learn about the breed and how to make them feel comfortable in their new life.

“GAP strives to ensure that each adopter is matched to the greyhound which will suit their lifestyle and home surrounds,” he said.

“GAP also provides comprehensive support to adopters both during and after the foster/adoption process.”

LEARN MORE

● An adoption day is being held at Kellyville Pets, 106 Windsor Rd, Beaumont Hills, on Saturday, September 24, from 10am to 2pm.

● Anyone interested in adopting a greyhound is encouraged to attend the adoption day.

● For more information visit gapnsw.com.au or call 1800 696 377.