Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission?
The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC, the Commission) is tasked with overseeing integrity and animal welfare in the three codes of racing: greyhound, harness and thoroughbred. The Commission was established on 1 July 2016 as a result of the MacSporran Commission of inquiry. The Commission provides regulatory oversight at all Queensland race meetings including stewarding, vet services and sample collections.
Who is GAP?
The Greyhound Adoption Program is part of QRIC and is independent of Racing Queensland. Fully funded by the Queensland State Government.
Why adopt through GAP?
At the GAP we pride ourselves on our ability to match our GAP greyhounds to your loving family through our comprehensive assessment process.
How much is the adoption fee and what does it include?
Our adoption fee is $100. Our greyhounds are desexed, heartworm tested, receive a full dental assessment including a scale and polish, are vaccinated, microchipped, and they come to you with up-to-date flea, tick and worming treatments. All GAP greyhounds receive life time registration with Central Animal Records microchip registry. All GAP greyhounds are issued with a uniquely numbered green collar.
Do greyhounds have to be muzzled in public? What is the GAP green collar?
Under Queensland State Legislation, all greyhounds are required to wear a muzzle while in public unless they are QLD GAP greyhounds – identified by the GAP green collar. Where council local laws permit, this green collar allows the GAP greyhounds to be muzzle free. Please be sure to check with your council regarding local laws on the muzzling of greyhounds.
How long does the adoption process take?
The length of the adoption process varies, but usually takes between one and six weeks. As our aim is to ensure the greyhound is well matched to your family, the length of this matching process will depend on your lifestyle and family situation.
How much do greyhounds eat?
Greyhounds eat as much as an average large breed dog. They thrive on a high fat and high protein diet.
Do greyhounds need a lot of exercise?
Greyhounds are individuals with differing needs, however, a walk twice a day and a free play is generally sufficient. As dogs they love any social interaction with their owners and other dogs.
Can greyhounds be let off-leash?
No. For the safety of your greyhound, we strongly recommend that you do not let your greyhound off-leash. This includes off-leash dog parks and beaches. They have a natural desire to run – fast!
Do greyhounds make good guard dogs?
Do not expect a greyhound to be a good watchdog. They are usually as friendly to strangers as they are with their own family.
Are greyhounds good with children?
Greyhounds are usually tolerant of children and can make fantastic family pets. When introducing any animals to children care and consideration should be taken at all times. Children should be supervised at all times when around any animal.
Are greyhounds good with other pets?
As sighthounds, greyhounds may have a well-developed chase instinct, however, this varies from greyhound to greyhound and many greyhounds can peacefully co-exist with other pets. GAP QLD carefully assesses each dog to determine how strong this instinct is, prior to adoption. Adopting families are encouraged to bring their family dogs to our adoption centre to meet their new greyhound. All introductions to new pets should be supervised.
Non-GAP Greyhound Green Collar Testing
If you have a greyhound that has not been adopted through GAP, we can assess your dog for a green collar. Please email gap@qric.qld.gov.au for further information.