Dog day afternoon

Two year old Alexander Sharp with Paulie, a five year old greyhound. Photo / Greg Bowker

Hundreds of greyhounds met at parks yesterday to mark national greyhound walk day and international day of the dog.

Greyhounds as Pets, the charitable trust that finds homes for ex-racing greyhounds, held walks in Auckland, Tauranga, Whakatane, Hamilton, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, Wellington and Christchurch.

Since it was launched in 2006, the organisation has matched 320 greyhounds to families.

Event organiser Lynda Sharp said greyhounds such as Paulie, pictured above with her son Alexander, 2, made amazing pets. She hoped the walk would encourage more people to adopt one.

She said many people were surprised to find out greyhounds did not need much exercise.

"Other than a few blats around the yard each day, they're quite happy to settle down and snooze away the day. They're gentle, affectionate and loyal the perfect pet."