We all know their mesmerising ability on the track, but greyhounds are just as special as pets as they are chasers.
Greyhounds are a gentle, affectionate breed who are perfect companions for any home.
None know this better than Yvonne Byron. After many years of working closely with Sandown Greyhound Racing Club, Toongabbie Lodge and the GAP program, there a few stronger advocates for greyhounds as pets than Yvie.
Yvie’s devotion to the cause has spread far beyond the track.
Recent morning walks with one of her retired chasers, Tessie, caught the attention of a neighbour who quickly became interested in greyhounds.
“Most mornings when walking Tessie, I pass a guy. We started by saying good morning, but one morning he stopped me and told me he was curious about greyhounds,” Yvie said.
“His name was Rod and he loved Tessie. He asked me about adopting a greyhound so I gave him all the flyers and typed up a letter outlining a few interesting facts.”
Rod took this new interest in greyhounds and was quick to spread the information to his family.
“One morning he was beaming all over his face and rushed up to tell me his sister-in-law Vicki was going to Toongabbie Lodge that day to pick up one of the dogs there, Akira.”
“I was so glad to be able to help. I am still working on him to adopt one himself. If Tessie was available, he would take her straight away but as you know, my three fur-babies are priceless.”
The three ‘fur-babies’ in question are Tessie, Sally and Stacey. They have become a staple of the race night experience at Sandown Park.
As well as putting smiles on faces greeting racegoers at every Sandown meeting, they are amazing ambassadors for the GAP program and Toongabbie Lodge.
If greyhound adoption sounds like the path for you, Sandown Greyhound Racing Club are hosting an Adoption Day on Wednesday March 15 from 4pm – 6pm.
There are seven greyhounds available and no pre-registration is required.
