West Tamar greyhound families will have a reason to celebrate with the opening of the municipality’s first dedicated off-leash area for greyhounds at the Windsor Community Precinct.
Mayor Christina Holmdahl said that the development of the innovative space marked a significant step forward in promoting responsible pet ownership and providing a safe, inclusive environment for one of Tasmania’s most beloved breeds.
At a cost of $27,000, the new 1350-square-metre enclosure, complete with shaded seating and secure fencing tailored to the high-speed needs of greyhounds, was developed in response to community feedback and a growing demand for breed-specific facilities.
The greyhound run forms part of a broader Council-funded dog park upgrade program, which will see a significant number of dog parks across the municipality upgraded to include shaded shelters, seat, dog exercise equipment and fresh water.
“Greyhounds are gentle giants with an incredible zest for life, and they’ve long been cherished members of our West Tamar community for many years – with almost 200 of their breed registered in our municipality,” said Mayor Holmdahl.
She said that the need for a specific “greyhound dog area” stems from the breed’s unique characteristics as the fastest dog breed in the world and the need for a large, safe, fenced space to run at full speed without risk of injury or escape.
“Opening this dedicated off-leash space is more than just a park — it’s a celebration of the unique bond between these elegant athletes and their families and will ensure that greyhounds can stretch their legs,’ Mayor Holmdahl said.”
“Council is thrilled to be in a position to provide this facility and at the same time, create a haven where greyhounds can play freely and socialise safely, and thrive.
“This facility – now the fourth of its of its kind in Tasmania – underscores our commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of all residents, both two-legged and four-legged.”
Greyhound welfare advocate Rosie Saville of Greyt Expectations Tasmania said these types of facilities are of the utmost importance for the health and wellbeing of greyhounds, both mentally and physically.
“Greyhounds spend their young life racing – then once adopted as pets they often don’t have an opportunity to run as by law, they are not permitted in all breeds off leash areas,” Ms Saville said.
“It is an imperative that all councils recognise their needs and provide for these beautiful gentle dogs that have certainly earned a happy life as a pet.
“These areas provide a safe area for them to socialise with other greyhounds and room to stretch their long limbs before doing what they do best, snoozing on the couch.
“Our pet greyhound community applauds West Tamar Council for listening to our needs which will also guarantee the adoption of more greyhounds. We hope to see more councils come on board.”