Politicians from both sides of the aisle convened on Parliament Grounds on Thursday afternoon as Greyhounds as Pets (GAP) trotted out some rehomed racing dogs as part of its annual adoption campaign.
Last year, the government announced it would ban greyhound racing, and had rushed through legislation designed to protect the dogs during the transition period.
With 3000 dogs needing to be rehomed as the racing ban looms, GAP brought its campaign to the feet of Parliament.
National MP for Hutt South Chris Bishop with a greyhound. Photo: RNZ / REECE BAKER
Among the dogs there was Louis, a four-year-old former race dog who had recently been adopted.
GAP public relations coordinator Daniel Bohan said the dog's new owners were seeing the dog "blossoming" after being place in a home.
Bohan said a common misconception about greyhounds was that they required a lot of exercise.
"Greyhounds are really lazy, he said.
"For about 60 seconds in a burst they are the second fastest land animal on Earth ... but after that little burst of energy, it's back to snoring on the couch."
Greyhounds on Parliament Grounds. Photo: RNZ / REECE BAKER
National MP for Hutt South Chris Bishop said they made incredible pets.
"They're incredibly placid and incredibly friendly, and anyone who's got a greyhound will will rave about it," he said.
"We need people to put their hand up and say I want a greyhound.
"An important part of shutting down the industry in New Zealand is rehoming the dogs."
Racing Minister Winston Peters said banning the sport was a hard decision, but something had to be done.
"It was actually enormously encouraging to get every member of Parliament to agree."
Greyhounds on Parliament Grounds. Photo: RNZ / REECE BAKER
Adoption gets a tick of approval
Greyhound Protection League founder Aaron Cross said no matter what people thought about racing, everyone wanted the dogs to find a home.
"We think the adoption movement is wholesome, and regrettably there are some associations with the racing industry, but I think we're all moving past that now and we're in a better space to work together," he said.
Greyhound Racing New Zealand chief executive Edward Rennell said adoption had always been an important part of a greyhounds life.
"It's been our commitment to ensure our animals have a life post racing, so we are committed to ensuring all dogs are rehomed," he said.
The racing industry is expected to be shut down by August next year.
Greyhounds on Parliament Grounds. Photo: RNZ / REECE BAKER
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
