Thursday, 25 May 2023
Peter Snell and Tanya Ross with their recent additions to the family, Digger and Willow. Picture: Jo Falconer
Greyhound Rescue are desperately seeking new homes for more than 50 dogs in their care, with their kennels now full.
Spokeswoman Fiona Chisholm said the not-for-profit animal welfare group cannot take on any more dogs until their current house guests are adopted out.
“A lot of them are surrendered [by trainers], others are found because a greyhound ends up sadly at the pound and we have volunteers that keep an eye out for that,” Ms Chisholm said.
The dogs range from two-year-olds up to nine-year-olds and are rescued from the Illawarra, Sydney and Canberra.
Another option to ease the pressure on the charity kennels is to find more foster carers who look after rescued dogs in their own homes until a permanent household is found.
Ms Chisholm said whilst in foster care the charity pays the full cost of vet bills and supplies a muzzle, coat, collar and lead.
In some parts of the country it’s compulsory for greyhounds to wear a muzzle when in public, creating a perception they’re an aggressive breed. Not so, according to Ms Chisholm who attested to their “chilled out” personalities.
She said dogs of an older age were well suited to older people or those who want a “quiet dog” who won’t need as much exercise as a younger dog.
Dapto’s Tanya Ross and her partner Peter Snell are strong advocates for adoption after welcoming a new dog into their homes over a year ago.
Mr Snell said their dogs Willow and Digger were low maintenance and seldom barked though did need some help fitting into the household.
“Some greyhounds have no idea what it means to be a pet and as a result it was a learning experience for all of us,” he said.
“Digger initially found images on TV frightening, although he worked out what the lounge was for from day one.”
Greyhound Rescue has a no kill policy and won’t euthanase a greyhound unless it was terminally ill or in great pain. They also do not receive any government funding and rely solely on donations and fundraising.
Adoptions cost $350 to assist with desexing, vaccination and health checks.
