Meet the Team: Sean

Sean joined the team in 2013 and today, as Head of Rehoming, oversees the Greyhound Adoption Program and its rehoming operations. His role stretches from strategic planning and stakeholder engagement to developing new programs and initiatives, all with a shared goal of creating positive outcomes for greyhounds and helping more of them find loving homes.

But Sean’s GAP story really began before he joined the team, when he welcomed his first greyhound, Roxy, into his life. Her intelligence, loyalty and affection quickly won him over and sparked an appreciation for the breed that has only grown stronger over the years.

Since then, Sean has had the opportunity to watch the program evolve, see community awareness of greyhounds grow and witness countless connections form between greyhounds and their new families. At home, that love continues with his two senior greyhounds, Bella and Marshall, who have embraced family life, including the arrival of Sean’s daughter.

We caught up with Sean to hear more about his journey with GAP, the greyhound who started it all and why seeing the bond between an adopter and their new companion remains one of the most rewarding parts of his role.

What's your name and what's your role at GAP?

Sean Stanton, Head of Rehoming. I commenced with the team in 2013.

What does a typical day or week look like for you?

Overseeing the Greyhound Adoption Program and rehoming operations means there is rarely a quiet week. A typical week involves a mix of meetings, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning and the development of new programs and initiatives.

Much of the work is focused on continually improving adoption outcomes, growing the program and enhancing the reputation of greyhounds as wonderful companion animals.

What first brought you to GAP?

After adopting my first greyhound, Roxy, I quickly fell in love with the breed. I had always had an interest in all three racing codes, so when the opportunity arose to play a key role within the industry and help place these incredible dogs into their forever homes, it was one I simply couldn't pass up.

Did you know much about greyhounds before working here? Has that changed?

The changes I’ve seen during my time in the industry have been remarkable. While I already knew a lot about greyhounds before I started, it has been incredible to witness the growing popularity of the breed and see firsthand the positive impact these dogs continue to have on people’s lives.

A major driver of this progress has been the significant investment in welfare and integrity initiatives across the industry. These improvements have helped strengthen outcomes for greyhounds both during and after their racing careers, while also increasing community confidence and awareness of what wonderful pets they make.

It’s been incredibly rewarding to be part of that journey and to see so many greyhounds thriving in loving homes.

What's your favourite thing about greyhounds as a breed?

I honestly think people underestimate just how intelligent greyhounds are. Their ability to adapt to different people, homes and environments is truly remarkable and something that never ceases to amaze me.

Whether they're settling into a busy family household or a quieter lifestyle, they have an incredible capacity to learn, adjust and form strong bonds with the people around them.

Do you have a greyhound or other pet of your own?

I currently have two oldies at home, Bella and Marshall. Like many greyhounds, they're both wonderfully relaxed, incredibly clean and love spending time with their people.

They have also adapted beautifully to the arrival of our daughter in recent years, becoming much loved members of the family.

Marshall is completely devoted to my partner, while I'm fairly certain Bella has chosen me as her favourite.

Is there a particular greyhound, past or present, who's left a mark on you?

My first greyhound was Roxy. Over the years, I've been fortunate enough to share my home with many wonderful greyhounds, but Roxy was truly one of a kind.

Not only was she my first greyhound, but she was also incredibly loyal, intelligent and affectionate. She loved people, got along with everyone she met and had a special way of making those around her feel loved.

Roxy played a huge role in my appreciation for the breed and showed me just how special greyhounds can be. She was a remarkable dog and one that will always hold a very special place in my heart.

What's the most rewarding part of your job?

One of the most rewarding parts of the job is seeing a greyhound matched with their perfect family and then witnessing the positive impact that dog has on their new owner's life. There is something truly special about watching that bond develop and knowing you've helped make it happen.

We receive countless stories from adopters sharing how much their greyhound has enriched their lives, whether through companionship, comfort, laughter or simply becoming a cherished member of the family.

Hearing those stories and seeing the happiness these dogs bring to people is incredibly rewarding and a great reminder of why we do what we do.

What's a funny, surprising or heartwarming moment you've had on the job?

The Prison Pet Partnership Program is one that is particularly close to my heart. Seeing the positive impact our greyhounds have on the people involved in the program is special and rewarding.

The greyhounds gain valuable socialisation, confidence and life skills that help prepare them for adoption, while the participants take great pride in helping the dogs on their journey to becoming beloved pets.

Watching these dogs make such a meaningful difference in people's lives is really great.

What's one thing you wish more people knew about greyhounds or the adoption process?

The team is here to help every step of the way. They are passionate, dedicated and genuinely committed to finding the right greyhound for every adopter.

With a wealth of knowledge and experience, they'll take the time to understand your lifestyle and preferences, doing everything they can to help you find the perfect match and set both you and your new companion up for success.

Coffee or tea? Morning person or night owl?

I do love a morning English Breakfast tea.

As for being a morning person or a night owl, having a two year old has taught me that neither exists!

If you were a greyhound, what would your name be and why?

My daughter is loving Paw Patrol at the moment, so I might go with Chase or Rubble.

Anything else you'd love to share with the GAP community?

I am grateful for the support our program receives. It is an amazing community made up of wonderful people from all walks of life, all united by their love of greyhounds.

Every day, I have the privilege of working alongside adopters, volunteers, foster carers, industry participants and supporters who share a common goal of helping these dogs find loving homes.

I feel fortunate to be in the position I am and to be part of a community that makes such a positive difference in the lives of both greyhounds and the people who welcome them into their families.

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