Gustav's Story: When one became two!

1. The Beginning

Sidney and Dan had foster failed with Pebbles, deciding it was time to foster again, they never expected to fall so hard for Gustav, but they couldn't imagine life without this chatty chap!

2. The Foster Phase

When Gustav - or Guzzy, as he's now known - came into their lives, Sidney and Dan had just moved to a house with a backyard, meaning more space for zoomies.

He was a complete contrast to their other greyhound, Pebbles. Where she preferred her own space, Gustav was all about sharing (and hogging) the couch.

"Gustav really showed Pebbles how to open up - even how to misbehave, which we ended up encouraging. She never really got to be a dog, so we figured she deserved to dig a hole and sit in it."

It wasn't long before his quirks emerged. Gustav is chatty - especially when it's walk time.

"He yaps and tells us it's time to go. It's cute though - and now he knows to drop so we can get his harness on."

The turning point?

"When Gustav's separation anxiety eased, we knew he felt safe. There was no going back after that."

3. The 'Foster Fail' Moment

It was love at first sight.

"Gustav was full of energy and sass but always gentle with Pebbles. He was the perfect fit."

He came to them with pretty serious separation anxiety - and a habit of tearing up tissue boxes. Now, he's content snoozing quietly on the couch with his sister while they're out.

"He feels safe now. He knows he's home."

4. Life Now

Gustav brought something unexpected to Sidney and Dan's lives: routine.

""After COVID, especially in Victoria, a lot of people struggled with habits and structure. A greyhound is the right kind of demanding - enough to bring those routines back."

These days, their walks are slow and sniff-filled, a welcome pause in the day.

And Gustav? Well, he's still as vocal as ever.

"We can have a full conversation with him - he just goes on and on."

If Gustav could say one thing about his life now?

"Disbelief that it could change so much for the better. Also, what are you doing on my couch?"

5. For Future Adopters

Thinking of adopting a greyhound but not sure if it's right for you?

"The adoption trial period is just three weeks — but honestly, it only took us three hours to know we'd found our long noodle."