Greyhounds will enjoy a very merry Christmas thanks to the Greyhounds As Pets (GAP) Home for the Holidays adoption and foster event last weekend.
Held at the Londonderry Adoption Centre, the two-day event brought together 250 to 300 people from across the community, including the Hills District, all eager to meet the gentle, affectionate dogs looking for a fresh start.
For many, including recent NSW resident Cameron Belt of Parramatta, the experience was life-changing. Cameron adopted nine-year-old Cass, a greyhound described as timid when they first met.
“Adopting Cass as a 9-year-old greyhound has been absolutely beautiful,” he said.
“When we first met, she was very timid, and it’s been wonderful to introduce her to a loving, peaceful environment where she can flourish. The joy that comes from learning her ways has been a truly special experience to share.”
Kirsten Lambros, Care, Assessment & Pet Placement Team Leader at GAP, said the event perfectly captured the spirit of the season.
“This event was special because it brought together the spirit of Christmas with the joy of giving greyhounds a fresh start. Seeing so many families open their hearts and homes during the holiday season was incredibly moving,” she said.
“For our greyhounds, Christmas meant more than decorations and treats — it meant comfort, safety, and the chance to spend the holidays on a couch instead of in a kennel.”
The highlight of the weekend was watching greyhounds quietly choose their people.
“Seeing a dog gently lean into a family, curl up at their feet, or confidently walk out the gate knowing they were going home for Christmas was incredibly moving,” Kirsten said.
Greyhounds are known to be calm, gentle, and affectionate pets who rarely bark, get along with kids, adults, and other animals, require minimal care and space, and enjoy simple walks.
In total, 38 greyhounds found new homes or loving foster families, including 12 placed in temporary foster care to prepare for full-time adoption.
One dog still looking for a forever home is three-year-old Griffin, described as shy but affectionate once he comes out of his shell. He is suitable for older children and enjoys the company of medium to large dogs. More information about Griffin is available at GAP’s website.
The Home for the Holidays event highlighted not only the joy of welcoming a new pet into a family but also the generosity and warmth of the local community, a gift that truly kept on giving this festive season.
GAP is already looking ahead to more events in 2026, including another adoption day at Londonderry on 17 January. Families interested in adopting or fostering are encouraged to apply through GAP’s website, where all available greyhounds are listed.
Applications to adopt a greyhound are open at gapnsw.com.au and are assessed in the order received. Responses may take a little longer over the holiday period, but the team assures they will be in touch as soon as possible.
