NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY LAUNCHED IN PITT ST MALL

Greyhounds As Pets NSW (GAP) will celebrate National Adoption Day (NAD) this weekend, with numerous events planned around the State.

National Adoption Day annually showcases what wonderful pets greyhounds are once their racing careers have concluded, and to launch the event in Sydney on Thursday, the organisation’s ambassadors Mitch Moses and James Tedesco took a dozen dogs for a little walk … down the busy Pitt Street Mall.

The pair of rugby league stars almost took a back seat as hundreds of shoppers and school holiday visitors to the city centre were drawn to the warmth and cute faces of the greyhounds.

“We decided that we wanted to do things a little differently in promoting National Adoption Day this year, and what better way than to stop traffic - foot traffic - in Sydney’s busiest mall at lunchtime,” said Steve Griffin from Greyhounds as Pets.

“Having two outstanding ambassadors such as James and Mitch were a great drawcard, but I think like everyone witnessed, the greyhounds were the stars of the show.

“National Adoption Day is great opportunity to not only find loving homes for these beautiful animals, but for people to come along and learn all about greyhound as pets.

“There are misconceptions particularly that they need big yards and lots of exercise. That’s far from the reality. 

“Greyhounds are happy with a short walk and spending the rest of the day lazing around on the lounge or in the sun, they have short hair and don’t shed or smell, and we can match dogs depending on adopters’ individual circumstances, such as small dogs, cats or units with stairs.

“I would encourage people to come out and take a look at the Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park on Sunday between 10am-1pm or attend one of the associated NAD days around regional NSW this weekend.”

NAD Events will be held at Petstock in Dubbo and at Anzac Park in Tamworth on Sunday, April 19, as well as events at Petbarn in Coffs Harbour and Petstock in Wagga Wagga on Saturday, April 18.

Last year a total of 119 greyhounds were adopted as a result of the NAD campaign, including 41 greyhounds adopted on the day at the Moore Park event, which equalled the best single adoption day event held in NSW, alongside the 2018 NAD held at Wentworth Park.

“We understand that budgets are tighter these days and we are offering a special NAD adoption price of just $75,” Mr Griffin said. “That includes a lead, Martingale collar, up-to-date worming treatment, lifetime council registration and importantly ongoing post-adoption support.

“All greyhounds have an up-to-date C5 vaccination, a full health check, are heartworm tested and microchipped. There is literally nothing else to do except enjoy the newest member of your family.”

Tedesco this week celebrates a year as an ambassador for organisation and saw first-hand last year when attending, what a resounding success National Adoption Day was. Moses joined in October and has enjoyed recently spending time and working with greyhounds.

“I’ve been involved in the ambassadorial role for about six months and I’ve got to see what a wonderful breed of dog a greyhound is,” Moses said.

“I’ve had the opportunity to spend some time working with Greyhounds As Pets on a couple of projects recently and it just amazes me what chilled and affectionate animals they are.

“I also spent time at the Easter Show last week at the GAP stand and got to see so many people wanting to pat, hug and learn all about them, and saw how well the dogs relate to people of all ages.

“The annual National Adoption Day events around NSW always attract big crowds and we see a lot of greyhounds find new homes and lounges to sleep on, and I’m sure it will be no different this year.” 

For full details about National Adoption Day Events, head to www.gapnsw.com.au.