Greyhounds As Pets adoption program expands to western NSW

More retired racing greyhounds are set to be rehomed in western NSW thanks to the arrival of a new program which is already proving incredibly popular.

A rehoming program for retired racing greyhounds has been made available in western NSW for the first time as a growing number of families consider adopting what doting owners describe as the “perfect” breed.

Not-for-profit Greyhound Racing NSW program Greyhounds As Pets (GAP) connects trainers with prospective pet owners and gives ex-racers new places to call home.

Leo Hellegers from the GAP with two-year-old Sophie. Picture: Ryan Young

Dubbo-based Leo Hellegers is the first GAP co-ordinator appointed to manage greyhound rehoming in western NSW.

“When I saw this position advertised I guess a fire reignited in my belly and I just had a feeling I had to do this,” Mr Hellegers said.

“I owned a greyhound previously so I knew the benefits of having one as a pet. They’re very affectionate, they love pats, they’re very loyal and cheap to maintain as well and they don’t eat as much as you would think, but they can be picky eaters at times.”

Mr Hellegers started in the role in January and he said interest in the program was growing among trainers and people looking to adopt.

“Most of my applicants are coming from the Blue Mountains, Orange and Bathurst at the moment,” he said.

“The greyhounds all go through a four-week let down period after racing and we get all their vet work done, and they get advertised on our website and put up for adoption.

“During the let down period they’re socialised with people and taken out to get used to different noises and stuff.”

Emma Bright used the GAP to adopt Flossy. Picture: Facebook

The GAP in western NSW operates differently to other programs closer to Sydney where there are shelters the dogs stay at, Mr Hellegers said.

“The trainer is involved in our process, they get a say in where the dog goes,” he said.

“They stay with their trainers until we find them a home.

“It costs $100 to put a dog in the program, but Dubbo race club actually covers that under their welfare fund.”

The cost for anyone looking to adopt a greyhound is $250, Mr Hellegers said.

“We arrange a meet and great, just to make sure they’re compatible before we rehome.

“Last week I drove to Orange for an adoption, the new owners were a middle-aged couple who lived on 15 acres and had another greyhound cross.

“Half an hour after going to the lady’s house Jessica made herself at home and was asleep on the bed. They adapt really well and fit into most homes.”

Flossy has become a welcome addition Emma Bright's family and great friend to her poodle.

Pet owner Emma Bright was the first person to take advantage of the GAP in western NSW when she drove 180 kilometres to Dubbo from her home in Blayney to adopt Flossy.

“I brought her home that same day and she’s been perfect ever since,” Ms Bright said.

“I’ve always just really wanted to give one a nice retirement and a happy home. I recently lost my other dog, so the one that I still had needed a friend.

“They get along really well, my little one is probably a little more bossy than Flossy. She’s got the best nature ever, she’s just so placid.”