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8 Surprising Facts About Adopting or fostering a Greyhound

Aug 28, 2019

When thinking about getting a new dog, more and more Adelaide locals are choosing dog adoption or dog fostering. If you are thinking that adopting or fostering a dog could be the perfect match for you and your family – then you should definitely think about fostering or adopting a retired greyhound! If you think of greyhounds as the big dogs that are bred to run fast, you’d be surprised to learn they are some of the most affectionate and most lazy, docile dogs around. If you’re a little concerned about finding a dog that suits your home, or getting the right support, Greyhound dog Adoption Program SA’s could just be the answer you’ve been looking for. Read on to discover some surprising facts about these super-friendly canines.

1. Adopting or fostering a greyhound dog is like getting a couch potato

Most people think of greyhounds as very active and energetic athletes. They’re certainly athletic – they can run up to 60km per hour, which is almost as fast as a racehorse! But away from the track, they’re more like a long-legged couch potato. Most greyhounds are indoor dogs and love nothing more than to lounge around…if they can lounge while cuddling up to you, they think that’s even better!

2. You can try fostering before committing to dog adoption

The most important thing about getting a pet is ensure both the dog and owner are happy and it’s a good match. There are people who think they’d like to adopt, but are not 100% ready to take the plunge. What is perfect in this situation is our foster to adopt program, which means you can take home a greyhound for the 1-2 month period, and if you’re a good fit for each other, you can keep your greyhound as your permanent pet – almost a try before you buy! And if not, we can find a family to then permanently adopt the greyhound who may be a better fit.

3. You don’t need a huge back yard to adopt or foster a greyhound

Given their size and speed, you might think greyhounds need lots of space for running around. All greyhounds need is a 20-30 minute walk a day, and then they’re quite happy to spend most of their time lazing around inside or sleeping. (They’re so good at sleeping that they can even do it with their eyes open!) Greyhounds are even suited to apartments or homes with just a courtyard size backyard. What is important to remember is that greyhounds need some personal space. You should give your greyhound a mat or bed that serves as their own space, and let them retreat here when they need some ‘alone time’.

4. You will get ongoing support from our dog Adoption Officers

When you begin your greyhound dog adoption or fostering, we will set you up with all the information you need to help him or her to settle into your home. In the handover session we cover everything from routines, to day-to-day care, to introducing your greyhound to your family and other pets. Once you’ve fostered or adopted, we’re always available when you have questions or need some advice and support. No question is a silly question – we prefer you ask the obvious to make sure you and your new companion have the best possible experience!

5. Greyhound dog adoption or fostering is a matchmaking process

It’s a common myth that you can’t have a greyhound with other pets or a family. While some greyhounds don’t suit every environment (as with all dogs), there are also plenty that have the right temperament to happily get along with your currnet pets or children. Like people, greyhounds all have their own unique personalities and different dogs fit in well with different types of homes. That’s why we have our matchmaking process – to ensure that both you and your greyhound are the best possible fit for each other! When you apply to adopt a greyhound, we take into account your home and lifestyle to find a dog that’s a good fit for you. We also encourage you to bring your pets in so we can do a meet and greet with your respective new greyhound.

6. Greyhound dog adoption and fostering boosts your feel-good chemicals

We’re sure it’s scientifically proven somewhere that greyhounds make you feel happy and relaxed. These dogs are super affectionate and love to cuddle. And of course, we know that cuddling releases endorphins, serotonin, and all that stuff that makes us feel good!

7. Greyhound dog adoption and fostering is super affordable

Did you know that greyhound dog adoption in Adelaide only costs $150? Make that $100 if you’re fostering to adopt. This includes all the important vet stuff - getting them sterilised, wormed, vaccinated, microchipped, and their health and dental checked. That way, when you take them home they’re ready to go! If your looking at fostering, it’s totally free! We give you everything you need too; a bed, collar, lead, food etc. And we will even give you a weekly payment to cover any bits and pieces!

8. Greyhound Dog adoption and fostering is an easy process through GAPSA

In case you haven’t realised yet, we’re here to make dog adoption and fostering as simple and stress-free as possible. Whether it’s getting the vet work done for you, the detailed handover, or providing ongoing support – we’re here to set you up with a super cool best friend who fits in with you and your family.