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16 March 2023

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Happy birthday GAP, we’re proud of you.

Happy birthday GAP, we’re proud of you.

March 17 marks the 27th anniversary of the founding of Victoria’s Greyhound Adoption Program, which is a significant milestone for the welfare of former racing greyhounds, and probably the most successful greyhound re-homing service in the world.

In 1997, two veterinary nurses from Sandown Park, Mel Tochner and Anita Smith, saw the need to find retirement homes for the dogs they cared for at the track.

Mel and Anita realised that most racing dogs retire at around four or five years of age; probably only a third of their life.

The continued success is the tangible result of Greyhound Racing Victoria’s welfare priority; that racing dogs are promised a happy retirement.

From these humble beginnings, the world’s most successful greyhound adoption program was born. GAP now regularly finds homes for up to 1000 greyhounds every year and assists other adoption agencies reach double that figure.

Apart from the successful promotion of the greyhound as a pet, particularly suitable for urban living, the program has been the catalyst for a whole community of like-minded greyhound owners who have formed walking groups and social media assemblies where may new friends have been made. The sheer volume of images of greyhounds in silly poses that adorn the internet is staggering; not to mention wildly funny…

The secret is out. The greyhound is now on ‘next pet’ lists throughout Australia and regularly appears on ‘most popular’ breed lists, thanks to their beautiful nature and the work of people like Mel, Anita and the hundreds of volunteers and staff members who have dedicated themselves to the breed.

Here’s to GAP. 27 years young, many more happy retirements to come.

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Meet our dogs ready for adoption

All greyhounds adopted from GAP are de-sexed, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed and health checked.

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Pisces

5 years old

Meet Pisces, a friendly mature aged chap who acts like an excitable puppy at times! Just like the characteristics of someone of the astrological star sign, Pisces, we believe Pisces is lives in a world of his own dreams and tend to be idealistic and optimistic. Pisces may suit living with or without a canine pal of similar size and children aged 10 years and older.
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Pete Piper

3 years old

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Meet Pete Piper, a stunning male greyhound with a personality that's as dashing as he is. This confident and outgoing guy is enthusiastic and boisterous, always ready for action and adventure. With his looks and lively nature, Pete is sure to capture hearts. Pete is looking for a home where he can be the star of the show, and it's recommended that he be trialled on his own to ensure the best match. He's not suited for older dogs or people, but he may thrive in a household with children aged 10+. Pete could also get along with medium to large dogs, but small dogs are a no-go. A spacious backyard is a must for this energetic boy, where he can run and play to his heart's content. If you're ready for a lively and loving companion, Pete might be the perfect fit!
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Shifty

7 years old

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Meet Shifty, a 7-year-old boy who defies his age with his youthful energy and playful spirit. Don't let his mature years fool you - this lively lad is still a puppy at heart, always ready to burst into a zoomy or play with a toy. With his boundless enthusiasm and love for playtime, Shifty is the perfect companion for those who crave an active and entertaining furry friend. Despite his advancing years, Shifty shows no signs of slowing down. His tail still wags with excitement, and his eyes sparkle with mischief as he chases after toys or embarks on a high-speed zoom around the room. With his ageless personality and playful nature, Shifty is sure to bring joy and laughter into the life of his forever family. If you're looking for a fun-loving companion to keep you on your toes, Shifty is the perfect match! He may do best living as an only dog and a home with no children. He would prefer a backyard for his zoomies. He has successfully completed further training in our behavioural rehabilitation program and is now ready for adoption.
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Brick Tamland

6 years old

Meet Brick Tamland, a charming 6-year-old male brindle greyhound with a heart of gold. This handsome boy is polite, sweet, and friendly, with an affectionate nature that will win over anyone's heart. Brick loves people and enjoys being around his family, showering them with love and loyalty. Brick has sensitive eyes to bright lights with uneven pupils. He does not require any medication or treatment for his condition. Due to his gentle nature, Brick is best trialled on his own to ensure the best match. He may be suitable for families with children aged 10+ and could potentially get along with medium to large dogs. However, small dogs are not recommended. If you're looking for a calm and loving companion to join your family, Brick might be the perfect fit. He's a gentle soul looking for a forever home where he can receive the love and attention he deserves.
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Tremendous

5 years old

Meet Tremendous, the friendly and outgoing greyhound gentleman who's ready to bring joy and companionship into his new home! This charming boy has a big personality and loves to make new friends, both human and canine. Tremendous is a social and affectionate companion who will thrive in a family environment with plenty of love and attention. Tremendous is best suited to a home with kids aged 10+, who will appreciate his friendly nature and energetic spirit. He's looking for a household where he's the only dog or with a medium to large canine companion. Tremendous requires a home without small dogs or cats. With a loving family and a stable environment, Tremendous is sure to become a loyal and loving companion - if you're looking for a friendly and outgoing greyhound friend, Tremendous might be the perfect fit!
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Hondo

6 years old

Handsome Hondo can't wait to find his forever home - is it with you? He's a confident and outgoing boy who can still get a bit excited when he meets new dogs, so he'd prefer a home with an experienced greyhound or sighthound owner. He would likely be ok with children aged ten or older, and should be fine with full time workers. Hondo has a heart murmur and comes with an approval for a follow up appointment for an echo, paid for by GAP.
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Bucks

5 years old

Meet Bucks, the handsome and charming greyhound who's looking for a loving home to call his own. This friendly boy is a social butterfly who loves people and seeks eye contact, melting hearts with his adorable gaze. Bucks is a gentle soul who will thrive in a calm and loving environment, surrounded by people who appreciate his affectionate nature. His eye condition doesn't cause him any vision issues, but requires ongoing medication. Bucks is best suited to a home with kids aged 5+, who will understand and respect his gentle personality. He's looking for a household where he's the only dog or with a compatible canine companion. As he's not a fan of loud noises, a peaceful home with minimal commotion would be ideal. With a loving family who can provide a calm and stable environment, Bucks is sure to become a loyal and loving companion.
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Slats

5 years old

Meet Slats, the handsome and energetic greyhound who's ready to bring some excitement into his new home! This social and enthusiastic boy loves people and has a boisterous personality that's sure to keep everyone on their toes. Slats is a lively companion who will thrive in an active household with plenty of room to run around. Slats is best suited to a home with kids over 15, who can appreciate his energetic nature and help him work on his manners. He's looking for a household where he's the only dog or with a compatible canine friend who can keep up with his playful antics. Due to his energy levels, Slats requires a home with a backyard where he can stretch his legs and get some exercise. He's not suited to old or frail people or dogs, but with an active and patient family, Slats is sure to become a loving and loyal companion.
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Coffee

4 years old

Meet Coffee, the big and bold greyhound gentleman who's brewing up a storm in the hearts of everyone he meets! This charming boy is a true coffee connoisseur - he loves treats, attention, and affection, and he'll be your loyal companion as long as the goodies keep flowing. With his gentle giant personality, Coffee is a perfect fit for families with kids aged 10+, who will adore his playful and loving nature. As a big boy with a big personality, Coffee needs a home that can match his energy and enthusiasm. He's best suited to a household where he's the only dog or with medium to large canine companions who can keep up with his playful vibe. Coffee is looking for an active family who can provide him with plenty of exercise, attention, and treats - if you're ready to perk up your life with a loyal and loving companion, Coffee is the perfect brew for you! Coffee has Pannus, an auto immune disease, which is managed by daily eye drops
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Kaheem

6 years old

Look at Kaheem and his ears! Kaheem is a mature chap whose puppy years are far behind him. He is a sweet and gentle boy, who is easy to handle and good on the lead. He can be a bit unsure of new dogs, so keeping him away from small dogs rushing up to him would be ideal. Kaheem may suit living with or without a canine pal of similar size and children as young as 5 years due to his placid nature.
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