Retired Queensland GAP greyhounds on show at Ekka this weekend
Greyhounds from the Queensland Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) will be looking for love at this year's Royal Queensland Show, strutting their stuff at the Ekka Sweepstakes on Sunday August 13 2023..
Judging will take place at 12pm in the Canine Pavilion and the public is encouraged to meet and pat GAP's entrants and learn more about GAP Queensland.
Run by the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC), GAP Queensland is dedicated to finding suitable, loving homes for greyhounds that have retired from racing.
GAP Queensland behaviourally assesses retired racing dogs and helps to prepare them for life in a family home.
QRIC Deputy Commissioner Natalie Conner said that it is an opportunity for the public to interact with the breed.
“Some people might not have met a greyhound before this and might be surprised by how quiet and gentle they are,” she said.
“At GAP, we aim to expose retired racers to a variety of situations that they are likely to encounter in a family home.
“The dogs attending Ekka Sweepstakes have all passed our program with flying colours and are looking for a loving home where they can enjoy their retirement.”
It's never been easier to call a retired racing greyhound your “FURever” friend, with GAP Queensland bringing its dogs to Brisbane at monthly adoption events.
From this month, GAP Queensland will host Homeward Hounds adoption events every third Saturday of the month from 10am to 1pm at Albion Park, Brisbane.
Adopters are encouraged to fill out an adoption application online and pick up their dog at the events, which also offer the opportunity for those considering adoption or fostering to meet GAP greyhounds, learn more about GAP's work and even adopt on the spot.
Ms Conner said that the events were about making greyhound adoption more accessible.
“The great thing about greyhounds is that there is a dog to suit almost every lifestyle – we have dogs that love to get out and about, as well as dogs that are calm and great for apartment living or life with retirees,” she said.
“Bringing our dogs to Brisbane makes it even easier for people who are dreaming of a dog to match their needs with the right furry friend, without having to drive out to our Churchable facility.
“It gives us the opportunity to spread the word to even more southeast Queensland dog lovers about what great pets greyhounds make.”
Homeward Hounds events will be held every month throughout 2023 on the following dates:
- July 15
- August 19
- September 16
- October 21
- November 18
- December 16
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All GAP greyhounds are health and behaviourally assessed, desexed, wormed, microchipped and vaccinated.
They also receive a dental examination and treatment and spend time at GAP or in foster care to prepare for life in a family home.
Visit gapqld.com.au to meet greyhounds available for adoption and apply to adopt online.