Volunteer with GAP
Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at GAP. Whether it’s walking greyhounds, sharing their stories in the community, or helping them settle into pet life, our volunteers make the journey from track to couch possible and unforgettable.
Join a caring community with a passion for greyhounds
Volunteering with GAP is more than just lending a hand - it’s becoming part of a community that believes in the gentle nature and endless potential of retired greyhounds. Since 1996, volunteers have played a vital role in helping us show the world just how wonderful greyhounds can be as pets. Whether you’re walking dogs, fostering, assisting at events, or helping with enrichment at our kennels, every moment you give makes a real difference.
Our volunteers come from all walks of life, united by a love for greyhounds and a shared commitment to helping them thrive. Some lend their time regularly, others jump in when they can - there’s no one way to get involved, and we’re grateful for it all. Volunteering with GAP is not only rewarding, it’s fun, social, and a great way to connect with fellow dog lovers.
There are a variety of roles available to suit different interests, skills and availability - from Foster Care and Community Engagement to Greyhound Enrichment and behind-the-scenes support. No matter how you choose to help, you’ll be part of a team that’s passionate, supportive, and deeply committed to giving every greyhound the best possible start to pet life.
So whether you’ve got a few hours a week or just want to pitch in now and then, there’s a place for you at GAP. Join us and be part of something truly special.
Ways to volunteer
Community Engagement
Love talking about your greyhound? Share their charm with the world! As a community engagement volunteer, you and your adopted GAP greyhound can attend events and help spread the word about greyhounds as fantastic pets. It's a fun, social way to connect with others and showcase just how special these dogs are.
Greyhound Enrichment
Give greyhounds the care and attention they deserve while they wait for their forever homes. Enrichment volunteers spend time at our facilities walking, grooming, playing with and cuddling the greyhounds. These visits make a huge difference in helping them stay happy, relaxed, and ready for adoption.
Foster Care – Fill the GAP!
Open your home to a greyhound in transition. As a foster carer, you’ll help a retired greyhound adjust to pet life — from learning household routines to enjoying the comfort of a couch. It’s a short-term commitment with a lifelong impact, and a beautiful way to be part of a greyhound’s journey to adoption.
What makes volunteering special?
People volunteer at GAP for all sorts of reasons, but they all share one thing: a love for greyhounds and a desire to make a difference.
Make a difference in a greyhound’s life
Feel-good moments guaranteed. As a volunteer, you’ll help greyhounds build confidence, feel safe, and get one step closer to finding their forever home. It’s a simple way to have a lasting impact on a dog’s journey to pet life.
Deepen your understanding of the breed
Whether you’re a greyhound lover or exploring a career in animal care, volunteering gives you hands-on experience and valuable insight into these gentle, quirky dogs. You’ll learn their language, their needs, and what makes them so loveable.
Bring new skills home to your own pets
From enrichment to handling techniques, you’ll pick up helpful tips and tricks that can benefit your own dogs and deepen your bond with them too. It’s learning by doing, with plenty of tail wags along the way.
Ready to volunteer?
Discover the many ways you can make a difference - whether it’s lending a hand at our Adoption Centre, helping out at events, or spending quality time with our greyhounds.
No matter your skills or schedule, there’s a volunteer role for you. Click through to explore current opportunities and see where you fit in!
Frequently asked questions
From how to get started to what roles are available, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about volunteering with GAP - so you can jump in with confidence.
1
What is the process to volunteer with greyhounds?
To volunteer with greyhounds, you first need to fill out an application form available on our website. After submitting your application, you will be contacted for an interview to discuss your interests and availability. Once approved, you will undergo a training session to familiarize yourself with the care and handling of greyhounds. Volunteers are expected to commit to a minimum number of hours each week, which can vary based on the needs of the organization. This ensures that the greyhounds receive consistent care and attention.
2
What types of volunteer opportunities are available?
We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities including dog walking, fostering, event planning, and administrative support. Each role plays a crucial part in the well-being of our greyhounds and the success of our programs. Dog walking is a popular choice for volunteers who enjoy spending time outdoors and interacting with the dogs. This role involves taking the greyhounds for walks, providing them with exercise and socialization.
3
How can I prepare for my first day as a volunteer?
On your first day as a volunteer, it’s important to arrive on time and bring any necessary paperwork. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, as you will be interacting with the dogs. Be ready to learn and ask questions; our staff will be there to guide you through the process. Expect to meet other volunteers and staff, and participate in an orientation session. This will help you understand your responsibilities and the best practices for caring for greyhounds.
4
Are there age requirements to volunteer?
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old to work directly with the greyhounds. Those under 18 will need parental consent. We also offer opportunities for younger volunteers to assist in non-animal handling roles, such as fundraising and awareness campaigns. We encourage families to volunteer together, as it can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
5
Can I volunteer if I have no prior experience with dogs?
Absolutely! We welcome volunteers of all experience levels. Our training sessions are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to care for greyhounds effectively. You will learn about their behavior, health needs, and how to handle them safely. Our experienced staff will provide ongoing support and guidance as you gain experience. Volunteering is a great way to learn more about these wonderful dogs while making a positive impact.
Hear from our volunteers
Our volunteers are the heart of GAP - and their stories say it best. From first-time community engegers to long-time enrichment legends, each experience highlights the joy, impact, and community that comes with giving your time to greyhounds.
Click through to see what being part of the GAP family is all about.