Victorians are adopting retired greyhounds in record numbers according to new figures from Greyhound Racing Victoria.

More than 840 greyhounds have been rehomed over the past nine months through the Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP), exceeding the record-breaking achievement in 2015-16 when 809 dogs were rehomed.

Minister for Racing Martin Pakula made the announcement today as part of GAP’s 21st birthday celebrations at Flagstaff Gardens.

Figures show the number of Victorian bred litters has also dropped with the number of pups whelped decreasing by 30 per cent.

The first GAP dog was adopted through the Sandown Veterinary Clinic in 1996. Since then, more than 7000 dogs have been adopted and GRV is continuing to expand the program each year.

GAP hosts adoption days about every six weeks across the state, giving prospective new owners the chance to find out more about the breed and the opportunity to find their next family pet.

GAP held its most recent adoption day at Sandown Park which saw 37 greyhounds adopted out.

Just last year, GAP opened a 50-kennel facility at Mount Mercer to help assess dogs for their suitability for adoption and it has already helped find homes for about 300 greyhounds.

For more information on adopting a greyhound, visit gap.grv.org.au

Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula

“Over the past two decades, the Greyhound Adoption Program has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most successful rehoming programs.”

“GAP gives retired greyhounds a life after racing and we’re proud to be supporting a program which is improving animal welfare standards.”

Quotes attributable to Greyhound Racing Victoria CEO Alan Clayton

“Twenty-one years is a major milestone for GAP, staff and all our volunteers.”

“GAP’s ongoing success in educating and rehoming greyhounds is a priority for the industry and Greyhound Racing Victoria will continue to supports its expansion.”