Greyhound crusade

BY CAROLYN THOMAS

Dog enthusiast Lisa East is on a crusade to find homes for lovable, ex-racing greyhounds.

The Kaukapakapa resident says the retired animals make wonderful pets.

She hopes her stall at the Helensville A & P Show on February 27 encourages others to adopt.

Lisa took on two dogs from the charitable trust Greyhounds As Pets in 2008 and hasn’t looked back

"They are really smoochy and so laid back," Lisa, 51, says.

"Affectionate, gentle and fantastic with children.

"We’d love to find them all homes."

She says the dogs are used to noise and excitement from race meets and don’t mind travelling in cars.

Many are also cat-friendly and suitable for most situations.

"We want them to go to good homes with people who have time and affection."

She says it’s a common misconception that the graceful animals require a lot of exercise.

A 20-minute walk twice a day should do the trick.

"My two do a circuit around our property."

The organisation has re-homed more than 400 dogs since it was started in 2006 by Greyhound Racing New Zealand.

Previously it was difficult to find homes for the dogs and many were put down.

"They spend their life making other people happy," she says.

Prospective owners are interviewed and houses are checked for suitability.

Dogs undergo a health check and are microchipped and neutered before adoption.

Temperament testing also helps to assess the type of home each will suit.

Lisa says patience is a key when taking on any new pet.

"A lot of these dogs have never been in a home situation before," she says.

"They haven’t had to cope with everyday noises like washing machines, dishwashers and vacuum cleaners."

The animal lover also has a horse, a cat and two birds.

She finally got a dog when she moved to New Zealand at 20 years old after growing up in a Hong Kong apartment.

"I’ve always loved animals."

Lisa’s volunteer role as Greyhound As Pets Rodney district co-ordinator is on top of her Department of Labour administrator’s role.

Owners and dogs will also be at open days at Silverdale’s Animates on February 20 and 21

View www.greyhoundsaspets.org.nz, call (09) 420-4068 or email lisanick@clear.net.nz.

- © Fairfax NZ News