Tamworth local Josh Crelley says adopting retired racing greyhound Nibbles not only brought a beloved breed back into his family’s life – it also inspired him to give back through volunteering.
Ahead of this weekend’s Greyhounds As Pets adoption day at Petstock Tamworth and during National Volunteer Week, Josh is encouraging locals to consider both greyhound adoption and community volunteering.
The adoption event will be held on Saturday, May 23, from 10 am to 1 pm at Petstock Tamworth in Taminda, with around 15 greyhounds looking for their forever homes.
Josh said he had always shared a strong connection with greyhounds after growing up around the breed as a child.
“As the years went by, I really started to miss having greyhounds around,” he said.
“I kept thinking one day I’d adopt one when the timing was right for our family and eventually I thought, right, that’s it, we’re doing it.”
About a year ago, Josh adopted Nibbles through the Greyhounds As Pets New England program with the help of New England Regional Coordinator Samantha Fearless, who is based in Tamworth and runs the local program.
Josh, his wife and their three children now share their home with Nibbles alongside a Jack Russell and a Blue Heeler, with Josh saying the gentle greyhound settled in immediately.
“He just slotted straight in, and it honestly felt like he’d always been part of the family,” he said.
“People are often surprised by how calm and affectionate greyhounds are in a home environment.”
Josh said many people still misunderstand the breed, despite greyhounds being known for their relaxed and gentle nature.
“They really are homebodies,” he said.
“They’re happy with a short walk and then spending the rest of the day lounging around with the family.”
Since adopting Nibbles, Josh has volunteered at every Greyhounds As Pets event held throughout the Tamworth region and has now officially joined the volunteer team.
He said volunteering had allowed him to help other locals discover the breed for themselves.
“Having grown up with greyhounds, I enjoy helping people learn more about them and seeing them realise what fantastic dogs they are,” Josh said.
“It’s rewarding to help new adopters through that journey and watch people connect with the dogs.”
Josh said one of the highlights of the adoption days was the welcoming atmosphere, with locals able to meet a wide range of dogs in one place.
“It’s such a good atmosphere because everyone is excited to meet the greyhounds,” he said.
“You get people who have researched the breed for months, families just coming for a look, or people stopping by out of curiosity – everyone is welcome.”
“It’s a really great opportunity for people to meet around 15 greyhounds in one day because every dog is different and there should be a greyhound to suit just about every lifestyle and home.”
Josh said it had also been exciting seeing more regular Greyhounds As Pets events held in Tamworth, as interest in adoption continues to grow across the region.
“More and more locals are finding out about greyhounds and adopting them, which is fantastic to see,” he said.
“It’s exciting seeing more frequent events happening in Tamworth because the interest is definitely there.”
Anyone interested in adopting a greyhound, learning more about the breed, or finding out about volunteering can meet Samantha, Josh and the greyhounds looking for homes this Saturday at Petstock Tamworth between 10 am and 1 pm.
Prospective adopters are encouraged to apply ahead of time to help streamline the adoption process on the day. Special adoption pricing will also be available, with greyhound adoption fees reduced to $75 for the event, down from the usual $250.
Families who already own a dog are also encouraged to bring them along to meet a potential new companion.
For more information about the Adoption Day or Greyhounds as Pets, vist the GAP NSW website.
Something going on in your part of the New England people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au