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Greyhound Adoption Program celebrates 30 years

By Abby Green

Jun 29, 2026

The Greyhound Adoption Program celebrated its 30th anniversary at a special event in Melbourne earlier this year, with greyhounds and their owners gathering to mark the milestone.

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The four-legged guests even enjoyed dog-friendly cake as part of the celebrations.

GAP Seymour operations co-ordinator Leah Brookes said it was amazing to reflect on how much the program had grown since it began with just two veterinary nurses.

“We now have a behavioural team, an adoption team and a foster team. I feel really fortunate to be a part of the evolution of Gap,” she said.

“To see the program evolve, and the public fall even more in love with the greyhounds, and having a much better understanding of how amazing they are as pets — that’s been really beautiful to be a part of.”

Ms Brookes said the group took in greyhounds of all ages and from all walks of life, preparing them for life as family pets.

Ms Brookes tickles greyhound Hercules’ back. Photo by Abby Green

“We run a lot of different programs and volunteers come in and spend time with the greyhounds,” she said.

“They can do activities like taking them for walks, playing with them, exposing them to different environments and teaching them to climb stairs, because many greyhounds don’t know how to climb stairs.”

Ms Brookes said the program geared the dogs up for home life, as they were often used to living in a rural setting.

“They are used to farm life, so getting them prepared for what life’s going to be like in a home is really great,” she said.

People can also foster a greyhound for about three weeks, helping the dogs become familiar with everyday household experiences.

“You take them home and get them used to what a couch is and things like TV and all the little things that we take for granted,” Ms Brookes said.

Todd McKenny celebrates GAP's 30 years with a cake for the greyhounds. Photo by Supplied

“It's really beneficial for them to have that exposure, so when they do get adopted, they know what it is.”

Ms Brookes said volunteers played a vital role in the program and there were opportunities to suit almost anyone.

“They can come on site and do what we call enrichment, so take them for walks, bathe them, groom them, one-on-one time and just little things that make their life more pleasurable,” she said.

“There’s a whole list of activities that they can do, but it’s really up to them and what they want to do.

“It doesn’t matter how much time you commit. It’s completely up to the individual — whatever they can fit into their day, we make it work.”

Ms Brookes said many people had the misconception that greyhounds needed a lot of exercise or stimulation.

Spyro the greyhounds loves to play. Photo by Abby Green

“They are actually probably one of the laziest breeds that you could find,” she said.

“They love nothing more than chill nights ... they make the best companions and people are falling in love with the breed. It’s really good to see.”

Ms Brookes said greyhounds also had surprisingly long lifespans, often living up to 15 years.

She said one of the most rewarding aspects of working with the dogs was the affection they showed.

“It’s the best job because if you’ve had too much time in front of the computer screen, or you just need to get out of the office, you can walk out and be greeted by all these greyhounds who want nothing more than to give you a hug and a kiss,” she said.

If you are interested in volunteering, adopting or becoming a foster carer, visit gap.grv.org.au/