Pam

Whenever we’ve had a difficult time placing a medical foster, Pam is usually the first one to offer her home up. She’s also a star when it comes to community engagement. You’ll often find her as a regular at our adoption events and workplace visits. She has even opened her home up for doggy-sit for some of our staff!

What’s your name, how do you volunteer with GAP, and when did you first start volunteering with us?

Pam Priestley. We started volunteering with GAP in early December 2009 & fostered our first dog Daire over the Christmas period. During our time with GAP we’ve fostered 75 dogs & since September 2019, 41 of these were Medical Foster dogs. 

What made you decide to become a GAP volunteer?

We had been volunteering with Donkey Shelter, ( a true rescue service ) at Diamond Creek for over 2 yrs as Welfare Officers, also adopting 3 of these beautiful creatures & when we left there felt absolutely lost & saw an add for Foster Carers with GAP & the rest is history. 

What’s your favourite part of being a GAP volunteer?

Over time we developed a real passion for Greyhounds & the program. Just totally love the breed, helping them on their journey from racing dog to pet via the foster program. Also very much enjoy the role of Medical Foster Carer.  

Another aspect of volunteering has been the promotion of the hounds at Adoption days & also out in public places, most recently at ANZ bank in the city. For 7yrs I was lucky enough to volunteer with the Adoption team & was trained & trusted to help facilitate adoptions. 

We have truly enjoyed some wonderful friendships of other volunteers & hope to continue in the future. 

What’s your best story or memory from your time volunteering with us?

 In 2017 I was truly privileged to be the recipient of The GRV Welfare Award. 

…..Also I have lovely memories of a particular Christmas we ended up with 5 hounds on our property. 3 of our own, a Christmas foster dog & a beautiful big black boy who was surrendered after having an altercation with a fence on his first day of adoption. He had some facial injuries that required Medical Foster care. There was such cohesion with this little group of 5 & never a growl between them. 

What would you say to anyone thinking of volunteering with GAP?

Absolutely go for it as you honestly get more out of it than you put in. Especially the greyhound cuddles.