Greyhounds as Pets Western Australia host first Albany adoption information event at Middleton Beach

Retired greyhounds charmed passers-by at Middleton Beach on Friday, showcasing the importance of adoption and foster care for the “easygoing” dogs after their days at the races are over.

The ”Pats and Chats” event held at Three Anchors on Friday was the first of its kind in Albany, designed to show off both the calm, loving nature of greyhounds and answer questions about adopting.

The organisation is dedicated to fostering and eventually finding adoptive homes for greyhounds after their racing careers have ended.

It is run by Racing and Wagering WA as part of a commitment to ensure racing greyhounds receive care at every stage of their lives.

GAPWA officer Jodie Gaskin said Friday’s event was great for getting adopted dogs out into the community for people to interact with and ask questions about the adoption process.

“Our aim is to find loving homes for greyhounds when they finish racing,” she said.

“They are really are very easygoing, adjustable dogs, we want to showcase that by bringing them down and showing people what they’re like.

“They are adjustable to such a range of environments, they’re basically the ideal family pet; they can live in an apartment or in a big backyard and the biggest misconception that I hear is people think they need heaps of exercise, but they so don’t.

“They’re really easy to have, a stroll every day is enough for most of these dogs.”

GAPWA assesses the behaviour, needs and temperament of each dog that comes through its care, so when the time comes for them to be put up for adoption the organisation can find the best possible home for them.

“Our priority is the temperament of the dogs and finding the best fit possible so they stay happily adopted and everyone is happy in the home,” she said.

Ms Gaskin said the adoption process was easy to start.

“The first step is to fill in an adoption application either on our website or we have them at our events for you to fill out,” she said.

“If you’re from a rural area, the dog would already have been through foster care, and you would receive them when they are ready to adopt.”

“They truly are great dogs and I think anyone who wants to adopt should seriously consider a greyhound.”

Information on how to foster or adopt greyhounds is available on the GAPWA website.