ABOUT G.A.P
The GREYHOUND ADOPTION PROGRAM is a non profit organization created by
greyhound lovers dedicated to finding homes for greyhounds whose racing
careers have ended. Although countless greyhounds become available for adoption
each year, there are not enough people interested in having them as pets.
Due to the fact that they are sight hounds and are aroused by the passion
of the chase, people think they are aggressive.
Up until July of 2004 GAP greyhounds were required by law to wear a muzzle
in public but this is no longer so. GAP greyhounds are now required to wear
an identifying green collar that is supplied to the greyhound when it is
adopted. Actually greyhounds are friendly, affectionate, gentle, good natured
dogs. It is one of GAP's main goals to change the widespread negative image
of greyhounds.
Through a more positive image, GAP hopes to increase the public's desire
to care for these pets after their racing careers have finished. The greyhounds
available through GAP are desexed, wormed, vaccinated and heartworm tested.
A lead, collar and rug for cold weather are provided. An adoption fee exists
only to cover these costs.
More importantly, they can give as much, if not more affection than they receive. Similar programs have been highly successful in the USA, UK and, more recently in many states of Australia. It is our hope that GAP can improve the image of these beautiful dogs and find loving homes that will bring happiness to both owners and pets.
SPONSORS
GAPSA is very fortunate to have the backing of.G.R.S.A. who have supplied GAP with an office, computer and financial support.
We have recently obtained a 4 berth dog trailer from Toledo Trailers which is extremely apreciated and will greatly assist in the transportation of greyhounds to fosterers and future adoption families.
Another fantastic sponsor is Advance - providing GAP with high quality food for our dogs whilst they are in foster.
Bayer is another sponsor who donates flea and heartworm treatment and worming tablets.
GAP has a regular veterinary service at the Gawler South Small Animal Hospital. They spay/neuter, immunise and heartworm test our greys and give a general health check on all the GAP dogs to ensure we pass on a healthy, happy dog.
We also have new vet Michael Condon that has volunteered his time. He is a chiropractor and takes care of our GAP dogs while they are still in foster care.
We are also fortunate to have a lady who very generously makes the dog coats, at a reduced cost, that are supplied to each of our adopted dogs.
We are happy to have a new vet helping in the Southern Area also. Dr Nick West of Coromandel Family Pet Vet.
Without these people and companies we would be struggling and therefore we much appreciate their kind generosity which makes putting our dogs through the program that much easier.
Visit our sponsors here!
ACTIVITIES
GAP has two yearly social functions when all GAP greyhounds, their owners and friends come together for a good long chat and a day of fun.
Hard working fosterers, Committee members and others who contribute during the year in some way come along and a great time is had by all. It's amazing how so many greyhounds can be in the same place at one time and a fight never breaks out.
The first function is in the middle of the year and usually involves an afternoon tea and catching up with friends. The second function is near the end of the year as a Christmas break up and there is a B.B.Q., a raffle, games and ending with a fancy dress (dogs and people) parade. We also have categories of Best eater, Best tail wager, Best male, Best female and others.
Other times of the year we have a stand at the Royal Adelaide Show, Adelaide Pet Expo and other venues where we can educate people about the suitability of our GAP greyhounds as pets and where people can have a 'hands on' with the dogs themselves. We also sell merchandise and take applications for membership.