The former racing greyhound was adopted by Gunnedah resident Pam McWilliams in September. But the dog was required by state law to wear a muzzle during public outings until she passed her greenhound test – a retraining examination to determine when greyhounds were safe around other people and animals.

Dani’s proud new owner was thrilled to see their training commitment finally pay off.

“She has certainly improved,” Ms McWilliams said. “She’s more relaxed now.”

Dani’s adoption agency Greyhounds As Pets (GAP) organised the greenhound testing at Quirindi – one of their first visits to the north west for such certification. She was joined by other ex-racing dogs from Manilla and Tamworth also seeking accreditation.

Dogs were led away from their owners while testing was undertaken but it didn’t faze Dani one iota.

Ms McWilliams “was not surprised” to hear that the state’s greyhound racing ban had been overturned. 

But in her opinion, the industry had “turned a blind eye for far too long” and relevant parties would be wise to heed government expectation.

“They will need to be vigilant in the future,” she said.

The greyhound ban did not influence her decision to first adopt, as Dani was rehomed almost to the day news broke of now defunct racing shutdown. And the ban reversal played no part in her intention to adopt a second either.

“I’m still thinking about getting another dog,” she said.

Woolgoolga Dani as she was known in racing circles, retired in 2013 with a reputable standing. From 44 starts, she gained 13 wins, six seconds and nine thirds for $21,305 career prizemoney.

Ms McWilliams had attempted to contact Dani’s previous owner without success. But she heard of good outcomes from other owners who had made contact with their dog’s racing trainer.

In late September, prior to the racing ban reversal, the NVI reported GAP had adopted out a record 313 greyhounds since the start of the year. A GAP spokesman said they were continuing to invest in ways to increase the capacity of the program.