The Fast Facts

What happens during the "fostering" period?

Dogs accepted into the Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) are first checked by a veterinarian. Most retired Greyhounds are fit and healthy and in the prime of their lives (usually two to five years old). Some may have minor injuries which stop them being competitive on the track, but which will not affect them in their new role as a family pet. The dogs are then placed in (temporary) foster homes, usually for three to four weeks, to help acclimatise them to life outside the racing environment. Foster carers introduce the Greyhound to small animal breeds, children, and various household experiences that kennel dogs are unfamiliar with at first. The progress of each dog is monitored carefully and their suitability for rehousing assessed. Once a Greyhound has passed this 'debriefing' and evaluation stage, he/she is desexed, teeth cleaned, microchipped, vaccinated, wormed, and tested for heartworm infection. Monthly heartworm preventative is commenced and flea treatment administered where required during the warmer months. When fully recovered from surgery, the Greyhound is ready to be adopted. The sex, size and, most importantly, the personality of the Greyhound is taken into account when matching with a prospective adoptive family.