There were plenty of pats, cuddles and treats for the greyhounds who visited the Myli Drouin Library for a Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) information session recently.
GAP is the most well-known of Greyhound Racing Victoria's initiatives, aimed at finding loving family homes for greyhounds who have retired from the racetrack.
Racing greyhound owners are expected to plan the 'end of career' options for their greyhounds, which may involve keeping the greyhound as a pet or rehoming the dog through GAP.

Greyhounds that are adopted via the GAP program undergo a thorough temperament assessment to ensure that they are safe around small dogs and that they are safe to go un-muzzled in public with a novice pet owner.
Sean, who attended the event on behalf of GAP, discussed all aspects of greyhound ownership, including their love of sleep. There is a common misconception that greyhounds require a lot of exercise and a large backyard. While greyhounds do appreciate going for regular walks, they like to keep them short as they tire quickly.
Greyhound's placid temperaments are also perfectly suited to apartments or homes with limited outdoor space. Greyhounds Marshall, Timmy and Moo Moo went along with their owners for the presentation, which allowed attendees to see the dogs up close and marvel at their gentle nature, and to ask the handlers questions.
Myli team member Kathie Olden said "it was such a pleasure" to meet the dogs.
"This was a great event for our community, organised by our programs officer Laura. We can learn a lot from dogs, especially about how to enjoy our work and our lives," she said.
GAP carefully assesses potential adopters' expectations, lifestyle and requirements before matching them with a dog. Pet ownership may not always be possible for everyone due to various circumstances, so GAP also has volunteer roles and foster care options.
Learn more about GAP and view greyhounds currently available for adoption by visiting their website – gap.grv.org.au
The event was part of the Libraries for Health and Wellbeing campaign, an initiative of Public Libraries Victoria and State Library Victoria. Studies have found that pet ownership can reduce stress and loneliness, provide companionship and increase social interaction.