Priority greyhound adoption is being offered to WA Police Union members in a partnership with Racing and Wagering WA to support the physical and mental health of officers.
WA Police Union (WAPU) President Paul Gale said the offer was available to both the union’s 7000 serving and 1300 retired members through RWWA’s Greyhounds as Pets program, which matches dogs with suitable new homes when they retire from racing.
“The demanding nature of policing as frontline responders to critical incidents takes a toll on the physical wellbeing and emotional health of our members,” Paul said.
“Policing is crucial to the WA community, however, to provide the best and safest duty, our members must be allowed to switch off after completing their shift so they can be ready to do it again the next day.
“The loyalty and companionship of a dog promotes comfort and helps alleviate stress, which is important to our members due to the strenuous nature of their role.
“The union is proud to support the re-homing of racing greyhounds through this adoption program and promote better lives for our members.”
RWWA Chief Executive Officer Ian Edwards said the partnership gave police union members priority matching with greyhound companions to maintain wellness and work-life balance.
“Greyhounds are gentle and affectionate dogs who are adaptable, easy to live with and great listeners at the end of a tough day at work,” Ian said.
“We are proud to support the people who carry the responsibility of supporting and protecting the West Australian community every day.”
The program includes:
- Priority for current and retired WAPU members to be matched with suitable GAP greyhounds.
- Individualised post-adoption support to provide ongoing advice and ensure the dogs settle well into new homes and families.
- All greyhounds adopted from GAP are vet-checked, vaccinated, microchipped, sterilised, dewormed and have up to date dental care.
- Six months free food and vet insurance.
The Greyhounds as Pets program helps greyhounds make the transition from racing to new homes in retirement, with a tailored plan to suit the individual needs of each dog.
