Talking Couch Potatoes (Free the Hounds Inc Association)

No Guest? No Problem! We're Getting Personal.
In this special Talking Couch Potatoes episode, an unexpected change of plans left us without a guest—so Matt, Mel and behind-the-scenes producer Jem took the opportunity to go unscripted and share what drives their passion for greyhound advocacy.

Tune in as we chat about how we got started, the shift in public perception we’ve witnessed over the years, and why it’s more important than ever to push for legislative change.

We talk about the power of community, the role of grassroots action, and how everyday people can help turn compassion into real impact.

Want to help greyhounds? It starts with raising your voice.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, or our website
🗳️ Sign up for our newsletter for advocacy tips and simple ways to contact your local MPs https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Feepurl.com%2FiKEGW2%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR4AOlnM2KalGUfkPbK4an1uZt_YgkJJXh1Cg1_6UByg08krgw8xZ64ouvzRDQ_aem_0yMl7Jkg_1ksKxFdV4DIHQ&h=AT3UsYCqTh5fw2RjIrJqteka1R_vF6WCxf8zbBziequwjffibvm0YowQDeLATuGBxxpOe5uIC17r9Fo_-j3yWvPKxlq7nhShW2TSnLztJnel1F_SKmkb5r7wmmD7aX5o4JLyQEbHQSbqZphTsmS2ehI1NYQUgA&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT1Y6d-zKnMLapHR2SeZVipd8mJXbfx4OcOGKieCw7RMljts7SYOjSJqm4FOKWt3lnsPLoT0Ojz3h8gUI7HJqKbxOtrMMfrhYszul6RCGZ8vMzwUoRnCGxgHPvl0m_TgtpEYmC6xL8__G5nfH7ie1HHnqv4KIzo8GYBS0gNY_lJ4s-yzsOllQ6KcSC9PlQWbfAzaxGlXGkiW8BOWF8QarYI8CWMQvFpsR3lC5Q
🎫 And don’t forget to grab your tickets to Nanna Bingo to support the cause in style! https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fevents.humanitix.com%2Fnanna-bingo-with-free-the-hounds%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR5EfgJoKmADoiLOMhlVIoo6XdeBKXT9KAjomjCc9IYnZ59Z2-oVs8erTRNhzA_aem_T9PhyZj9L8MCS6Dwg-NFrQ&h=AT3EDlshLRj7LDKQZsIXRQCRNf-OcRDB3s1fLwBEiWHctl8i8jYfeE2o9KmctjHZ3V87Tszfl35Jxh-o63xlTp21gjckrK0L3Wjvpby-8LiiTyqqzB6nM4OJU7Lyzo2GlFvG6sb8ZikwNLV-HRzEO3kAabxd2A&__tn__=-UK-R

Proudly sponsored by Henry Houndwear, what all the best dressed hounds are wearing!

https://henryhoundwear.com.au/

In this episode of Talking Couch Potatoes, we chat to Georgie Purcell, Member of Parliament for the Animal Justice Party in Northern Victoria. Georgie is an incredible advocate for greyhounds and she shares her insights into politics, greyhound racing, exports and more.

Matt & Mel chat with Toni Donnelly from Greyhound Adoptions WA, a community run and funded agency committed to safely rehoming greyhounds; focusing on the current rehoming crisis in Western Australia.

Nine year old Luka joins Matt and Mel in the studio this episode, after writing a lovely feedback email about his most favourite animal - greyhounds! Walter, Poppy, Huey and Alfie are all lucky rescues that have known the love of Luka and his family (including Grandma!)

Luka's endearing affection for greyhounds, plus his cheeky giggle and mature insight into the complexities of fostering and adoption will melt your heart...

This podcast finishes with a touching tribute from Mel to her Heart Dog, the beautiful Anna, who was taken suddenly and too soon, just days before recording.

Please click the link to learn more about Osteosarcoma in Greyhounds and fill in the survey to help Free The Hounds track the data of this dreaded genetic disease, and hopefully find a way to eradicate it from our beloved breed.

⁠https://www.freethehounds.com.au/dr-belinda-oppenheimer-examines-osteosarcoma-in-greyhounds/⁠

⁠https://www.freethehounds.com.au/survey/⁠

In this Xmas special, Eve West, Dog Behaviourist and Trainer, shares her wealth of knowledge about greyhound behaviors, offering insights into the nuances that make these dogs such a special breed. From their racing backgrounds to their life as couch potatoes, we explore the transition and adjustments these majestic dogs go through. As a Xmas treat, Matt strums and sings a special song he wrote dedicated to the hounds.

Learn more about Eve's service at https://trickydogtraining.com.au/

In this episode of 'Talking Couch Potatoes', special guest Jackson, wagering analyst, discusses The Murphy Report, 'You Win Some, You Lose More' a comprehensive government report making waves with its recommendations aimed at addressing problem gambling in Australia.

Jackson explains how these proposed measures are poised to impact the revenue from greyhound racing.

He highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic provided a temporary boost to the industry. However, since then, gambling revenue has taken a noticeable downturn, posing a threat to the profitability of greyhound racing. This is currently playing out across eastern states of Australia with severe and abrupt staff lay-offs and greyhound welfare cuts.

Join Matt, Mel, and Jackson for an engaging and informative episode as they navigate the entwined intersections of WA government policy, and the future of greyhound gambling in Australia.

See the full report here https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/House/Social_Policy_and_Legal_Affairs/Onlinegamblingimpacts/Report

Join us on 'Talking Couch Potatoes' as we chat with Karen, President of Dogs' Refuge Home in Shenton Park, about her 18 years of dedicated volunteer work with homeless and unwanted dogs. Karen shares the emotional ups and downs of her experience, the critical need for government funding for sterilization programs, and chats with Mel about the frustrating irony of government support for overbreeding greyhounds for racing while so many dogs are in desperate need of fosters and forever homes. This episode offers a candid look into the challenges and rewards of animal rescue, and the ongoing fight for a better future for all dogs.

Click here for more on the Dogs' Refuge Home https://www.dogshome.org.au/

The Western Australian Government started the Greyhound Injury Recovery Scheme (GIFRS) in August 2019. Since then there's been almost a dog per week entered into the scheme.

This episode, Matt and Mel explore the Scheme, look at the data, and speak to a a greyhound adopter with a personal story about her lovely GIFRS hound, Charlotte.

See the Little Grey Film online https://thelittlegreyfilm.com/

Attend the Animal Rights Forum https://animalrightsforum.org/

Complete the FTH survey https://freethehounds.com.au/survey/

Check out the FTH website to see how you can get involved! www.freethehounds.com.au

Contact us on podcast@freethehounds.com.au

In this new podcast series, by Free the Hounds (FTH), our host Matt will explore the complexities of the Greyhound Racing Industry in Western Australia, share the quirks of this loveable breed, hear from community members and more.

In this introductory episode you'll hear Mel Harrison, the President of FTH, chat about what FTH does, touch a little on the racing industry and dream about all the potentials of this new podcast series.

In this episode Matt and Mel introduce regular segments, including listener feedback, fortnightly stats in Western Australia and greyhound related shoutouts. They discuss the current export bill to ban greyhound exports after Free The Hounds revealed Australian hounds in China's illegal gambling rings. One lucky survivor was secretly rescued and he will be welcomed back home for the sweet life very soon!

This week, Matt and Mel invite Ray to share his journey from a greyhound racing punter to a conscientious advocate. The episode highlights Ray's candid insights into what prompted him to change his stance and stop betting on the dogs. Listen as he shares how personal experiences and newfound awareness reshaped his perspective on greyhound racing. This is a story of growth, change, and compassion.

🎙️ Exciting News! Talking Couch Potatoes is thrilled to welcome our very first podcast sponsor — Henry Houndwear! 🐾

🎧In this special episode, we sit down with Warren and Jo Henry, the passionate duo behind Henry Houndwear, a brand dedicated to creating high-quality, handmade apparel for greyhounds. Inspired by their own rescue hounds, Mya and Chekka, Warren and Jo share their incredible journey from rescue advocates to small business owners.

😍You'll also hear the touching story of The Dodgem Darlings — a group of greyhound siblings who were rescued from the racing industry and lovingly reunited in Perth, Western Australia.

💕Join us for a heartfelt conversation celebrating the unbreakable bond between hounds and their humans, and the compassion and creativity that drives Warren and Jo's advocacy.

🐾 Proudly sponsored by Henry Houndwear
What all the best-dressed hounds are wearing!

In this episode of Talking Couch Potatoes, we sit down with Susan Yuen, a seasoned pet physiotherapist, to explore the world of greyhound wellness.

Sue shares her journey into pet physiotherapy and her expert insights on managing the unique challenges greyhounds face, including painful corns and chronic discomfort.

We delve into how physiotherapy can bring relief, improve mobility, and enhance the overall quality of life for these amazing dogs. Whether you’re a greyhound owner or simply curious about pet health, this episode is packed with valuable tips on keeping your hound happy and pain-free.

Sue's practice is Physio for Pets in Bibra Lake, Perth, Western Australia...however please contact her for invaluable information through online webinars to assist your pet's ongoing health wherever you are in the world! https://physioforpets.com.au/

🎶 Sing along with Lily Longnose 🎶 As promised in Episode 28 of Talking Couch Potatoes "The New Adventures of Lily Longnose", we are thrilled to share with you Lily's first sing-along song! 🥰🐶

#LilyLongnose #PodcastBonus

In this episode, Matt and Mel interview Andrea Pollard, the President of the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds (CPG), a prominent national advocacy group in Australia. The discussion delves into the grim realities surrounding greyhound racing nation-wide, provides data-driven insights into the extent of the problems, and highlights the urgent need for advocacy and reform within the industry.

They explore the future for greyhounds, emphasizing the importance of collective action and legislative measures to ensure the welfare and protection of these beautiful animals.

With increased awareness of the ethical implications of greyhound racing, we hope listeners will be inspired to join the movement for change, guided by Andrea and our host's impassioned advocacy and commitment to justice for greyhounds.

Visit CPG's website here for further references and to sign up to volunteer

Visit Free The Hounds' website here

Sign the new WA Petition to End Greyhound Racing (WA residents only)

Sign up here to help us with our petition in Western Australia

Statistics, stewards reports and other references please find here

In this episode, Matt and Mel dissect the 2024 Petition aiming to phase out greyhound racing in Western Australia. They break down the seven key points of the petition, ranging from welfare reform to the proposed three-year phase-out plan.

Exploring the topic from diverse perspectives, they also delve into recent events like the Perth heatwave and scrutinize the latest injury statistics from Racing and Wagering WA, pointing out questionable and misleading data.

Tune in as they navigate the complexities so you too can feel informed as you advocate for these beloved hounds.

Sign and share the petition here https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Parliament/LCePetitions.nsf/($All)/B0E44E4103D9D08C48258AC100256186?opendocument

In this episode of 'Talking Couch Potatoes', Mel has a chat with Ben Cave, CEO of RSPCA Western Australia, to discuss the unique challenges the organization faces in advocating for racing greyhounds.

Ben sheds light on the legislative restraints that limit the RSPCA's role in greyhound welfare and shares insights into the broader challenges confronting the RSPCA WA.

Despite these hurdles, he highlights the incredible work they do in animal welfare through their inspectorate, advocacy, and education programs.

A must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of animal protection in Australia, and how affecting change within government legislation is the slow but steady path to free the hounds.

Check out the valuable work of the RSPCA WA here https://www.rspcawa.org.au/

An extended interview with leading Animal Welfare Veterinary Professor Andrew Knight. In part 1 of this interview, Matt and guest host Alan Dolphin discuss Professor Knight's 2018 publication on injuries in racing greyhounds and the recommendations for safer tracks. All information discussed can be found at www.andrewknight.info

In this episode of Talking Couch Potatoes, we’re joined by Dr. Olga Lynn, an experienced emergency veterinarian with a special focus on greyhound care.

Drawing from her extensive work with rescue greyhounds, Dr. Olga sheds light on critical medical issues such as dental disease, osteosarcoma, and hyperfibrinolysis—a serious bleeding disorder. She passionately critiques the greyhound racing industry, highlighting the neglect and suffering these dogs endure and advocating for an end to the so called sport.

Beyond the challenges, Dr. Olga shares invaluable advice on recognizing and managing common health concerns in greyhounds and introduces her online first aid course for pet owners. This episode is packed with expert insights and heartfelt advocacy, making it essential listening for any greyhound lover.

🐈‍⬛A special dedication to Sheriff, Mel's 17 year old tomcat mentioned in this episode who sadly left us recently 💖Check out Dr Olga Lynn's online First Aid for Pets Course here https://drolgalynn.com.au/products/first-aid-course

Buy tickets for Nanna Bingo here https://events.humanitix.com/nanna-bingo-with-free-the-hounds

Join Free The Hounds email list to help our campaigns here (worldwide) https://freethehounds.us21.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=d87f42ca4948157c6be5559a1&id=07c947f9e1

This episode of "Talking Couch Potatoes" highlights the recent Western Australian government hearings by the Estimates Committee: One hearing for the WA Greyhound Racing Association and Racing and Wagering WA; the other for Free The Hounds to present their case from an economic perspective.

"Chasing the Money Trail: In Pursuit of Government Inquiry" marks a pivotal moment where the government has stopped to listen and question.

Matt and Mel discuss some of the hearing's talking points:

The end of the Greyhound Injury Recovery (GIFR) Scheme, with the heartbreaking and unprecedented increase in greyhound deaths since it closed.

The economics of the WA greyhound racing code being funded and supported by our tax dollars through the WA Government.

AND how the The Free The Hounds 2024 Petition to end greyhound racing in WA addresses these and more concerns! Sign the Petition!

Sign the Petition here (WA residents only) https://bit.ly/endgreyhoundracinginWA

Watch the hearings here https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Parliament/commit.nsf/(ProceedingsOnly)/565CF18B75D4E0F04825872F0014B55F?opendocument#Hearings

Revelations Film Festival website here https://www.revelationfilmfest.org/

In this episode of Talking Couch Potatoes, we welcome Kim, the founder of the newly established charity "Blue The Grey." Created in memory of her beloved greyhound, Blue, a social media sensation known for his love of toast, Kim shares the heartfelt story behind the charity's inception. After Blue's sudden passing, the overwhelming support and a GoFundMe campaign that raised an astonishing $130,000 motivated Kim to create this charity. Tune in to hear how Blue's legacy is bringing together hound lovers to find common ground and tackle the issues of the racing industry in a new and unique way.

In this one year anniversary episode of 'Talking Couch Potatoes', Matt and Mel sit with Sophie, a dedicated volunteer from Greyhound Adoptions WA (GAWA). Sophie shares her experiences of fostering and rehoming greyhounds, highlighting the alarming increased demand for foster homes in Western Australia.

She explains how GAWA supports foster carers with resources, guidance and the added bonus of a friendly new community and network of greyhound advocates.

Build a deeper understanding of the significant impact you could make through fostering these beautiful creatures, and join our commitment to address the root causes of the rehoming crisis which is only getting worse.

Click here to find out how to become a foster carer! ⁠https://greyhoundadoptionswa.com.au/⁠

Click here to download a copy of the 2024 WA Petition

⁠https://www.freethehounds.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Free-The-Hounds-Hardcopy-Petition-2024.pdf⁠

In this episode of Talking Couch Potatoes, we welcome special guest Kristy Alger, from Animal Liberation Tasmania (ALT). We discuss the group's efforts in investigating and exposing the harsh realities of greyhound racing and other animal welfare concerns in Tasmania.

Kristy shares her personal journey into activism, highlighting key campaigns like the Defund Tas Racing initiative and the 'Bad Apples' report, an investigation by ALT into the greyhound racing industry in lutruwita/Tasmania.

The damning evidence uncovered by this report made nationwide news and continues to draw political and media attention.

Join us as we delve into the strategies, challenges, and future plans of Animal Liberation Tasmania, including collaboration with political figures, upcoming projects, and the ongoing fight to protect animals from inhumane practices.

Read the "Bad Apples" report here https://defundtasracing.com/

Get ready to be charmed by our youngest guests, Hannah and Layla, on this episode of Talking Couch Potatoes! Join these 8-year-old champions as they share 'paw-some tails' about their beloved greyhounds, sprinkled with some giggling over funny poop stories and doggy jokes! They'll melt your heart while shedding light on the truth about the racing industry and why it's time to take a stand. Get ready for laughter and a whole lot of puppy love!

Sign the petition to #endgreyhoundracinginWA here https://bit.ly/endgreyhoundracinginWA

In this episode of Talking Couch Potatoes, Matt & Mel look into the reality of greyhound welfare in South Australia with our special guest, Elle, the president of the Greyhound Welfare Initiative. Elle shares her personal journey, which began with the adoption of her first greyhound, Maggie, and how it ignited a passion to advocate for these gentle creatures.

Elle paints a vivid picture of the dismal state of greyhound welfare in South Australia, where neglect and mistreatment have shaken the community, including shocking footage capturing blatant cruelty and violence inflicted upon greyhounds. This exposé led to a government inquiry, which uncovered the harsh realities of the industry and issued strong recommendations for reform.

Throughout the episode, Elle passionately emphasizes the urgent need for change and highlights the importance of advocacy to ensure a brighter future for greyhounds in South Australia.

Check out GWI here https://greyhoundwelfareinitiative.com.au/

In this episode of 'Talking Couch Potatoes,' hosts Matt and Mel welcome special guest, Lisa Baker, a member of the Legislative Assembly of Western Australia, and a strong advocate for animal welfare, LGBTQIA+ rights, climate action and the empowerment of women and vulnerable communities worldwide.

Lisa shares her journey into politics, highlighting early challenges and incredible achievements. Her dedication to social justice and animal welfare is evident as she discusses her ventures into greyhound welfare reform and the establishment of the WA Parliamentary Friends of the Greyhound group.

Lisa also speaks about her passion for the future of food, focusing on alternative proteins as a sustainable complement to animal-based diets. Despite facing criticism and pushback, Lisa emphasizes the importance of remaining in the room to influence policy and create positive change.

A fascinating interview with a truly inspiring local hero for Free The Hounds. Dont miss it!!

Learn more about Lisa's new project on the Future of Food here https://www.youtube.com/@lisabakerfutureoffood

In this episode of Talking Couch Potatoes, your host Matt talks with Andrew Knight, a leading Veterinary Professor, in a thought-provoking exploration of pet nutrition and environmental sustainability. Professor Knight unveils his latest groundbreaking research on the feasibility and impact of plant-based diets for our furry friends. See links for Professor Knight's study, and the infographic as an excellent visual aid.

https://www.andrewknight.info/article-pet-food-environmental-sustainability/

https://aknight.info/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pet-food-sustainability-2023-PDF.pdf

https://sustainablepetfood.info/

In this funny new episode, Matt & Mel(ificent!) cover the latest updates from the recently tabled 2024 WA Petition to phase out greyhound racing (just short of 27,000 signatures!), recommendations from the WA Government Estimates Committee, and upcoming public events such as Little Beans Gourmet Fair Day and PrideFest Fair Day.

Special guest Emily Norman, author of best selling greyhound children's book "Lily Longnose Finds A Home" celebrates her one year anniversary with the latest adventures of Lily: book readings at schools and libraries, fundraising efforts and exciting news and announcements for future Lily adventures!

In the second episode of our special election series, Matt & Mel sit down with Brad Pettit, leader of The Greens Western Australia.

Brad was a member of the bipartisan Estimates Committee that last year recommended an inquiry into the greyhound racing industry in WA — a move he is committed to pursuing this year. They discuss the upcoming March 2025 election, the Green’s stance on greyhound racing, and the systemic changes needed to create a more ethical and sustainable WA.

Tune in to hear how the Greens’ policies align with a vision for accountability, sustainability, and justice for both people and animals.

Check out The Greens WA platform here 👇

https://greens.org.au/wa/platform

In this heartfelt episode of Talking Couch Potatoes, Matt and Mel sit down with pet loss counsellor Grant to explore the emotional journey of saying goodbye to our beloved furry companions. Grant shares personal stories that inspired his counselling career, the cherished memories of his greyhounds, Hope and Stella, and his terriers, Nan and Scruffy.

Listeners will gain valuable insights as Grant offers compassionate advice on navigating the grieving process, honoring the bonds we share with our pets, and finding healing in the midst of loss.

Join us for an episode filled with empathy, support, and understanding as we recognize the deep connections that make our pets so special, and the profound impact of their loss.

Find Grant's counselling service here https://www.thepetlosscounsellor.com/

Our guest this episode is Sebastian Broadhurst, an economist that has investigated the methods and data used by the consulting firm IER; used by various racing bodies for their economic reports to government, including Racing and Wagering WA.

Termed as 'fluff pieces' these reports use bad methodology and at times non-existent data to glorify the economic benefit of the racing industry in Australia. Join us as Sebastian unveils the truth behind the reports and the danger of using such methods to inform government decision making.

Read Sebastian's report here https://www.freethehounds.com.au/economists-review-of-the-ier-report-2/

Sign our petition here https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Parliament/LCePetitions.nsf/($All)/B0E44E4103D9D08C48258AC100256186?opendocument

Find the IER 83-page report here https://www.rwwa.com.au/about/corporate/corporate-reports/economic-social-impact-report/

"Talking Couch Potatoes" hosts Matt and Mel sit down with Sasha to discuss the challenges and rewards of adopting Dustin, the face of the 2024 Free The Hounds Petition. Sasha recounts her experiences of welcoming Dustin into her home and the bond that has since developed between them. The episode also touches on Lena, Sasha's first rescued greyhound, whose story is tinged with sadness. Tune in to Sasha's inspiring tale of love, companionship, and the transformative power of giving a rescued greyhound a happy life.

Sign the 2024 Petition here https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Parliament/LCePetitions.nsf/($All)/B0E44E4103D9D08C48258AC100256186?opendocument

Help a rescued greyhound here https://greyhoundadoptionswa.com.au/

In this heartwarming episode, we dive into the enchanting world of children's literature.Join Matt and Mel as they embark on a special journey with a unique guest, 8-year-old Hannah, and Emily Norman, author of the delightful children's book "Lily Longnose Finds A Home."

Join our hosts as they travel to the first national Greyhound Protection Workshop in Melbourne, where passionate advocates from across Australia convened to champion the changes needed to end greyhound racing. In this episode, we delve into the stories and perspectives of those driving the movement forward. Hear from experts, spokespeople and politicians as they share their insights, challenges and hopes for a brighter future for greyhounds in Australia.

Thanks to Free The Hounds, The Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds, and Blue The Grey for driving this powerful meeting of minds to create change.

https://www.freethehounds.com.au/

https://greyhoundcoalition.com/

https://www.bluethegrey.org/

Our guest this episode is Aislinn, a Veterinary Nurse, who introduces us to her hound Bertie, discusses the common issue of dental health and the interesting topic of greyhounds as universal blood donors.

Mel also addresses the email response from the Western Australian Racing and Gaming Minister, Paul Papalia, to our recent email blitz; once again pointing out the fallacies and misinformation provided by the WA Racing and Wagering department to justify the deaths and track safety in WA.

Details here for the Sandgroper Protest at Cannington Track https://fb.me/e/3N6P40j8v

Click this link to sign our petition if you are a WA resident https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Parliament/LCePetitions.nsf/($All)/B0E44E4103D9D08C48258AC100256186?opendocument

See the lovely Ded Bets Runaway music video here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQZF0eOqdFY

This episode, Matt and Mel interview Indy Davies, of Bad Publicity Co. Indy is the writer, director and producer of 'The Little Grey Film', a heartwarming short film starring many rescued greyhounds and their advocates around Australia.

Featuring the movie's soundtrack song, 'Runaway' by the Ded Bets.

Watch the trailer https://youtu.be/rZsMTc0KWmw?si=3ZYiFvbicmg2nPO3

Watch Indy's original short about beautiful Georgie https://youtu.be/xWUwojxP-tU?feature=shared

In this episode, discover Hope and Owen's journey with their rescued greyhound, Beau, and how compassion transformed all their lives.

This heartwarming story is perfect for the holiday season.🎄🐾

In the first episode of our special election series, Matt & Mel focus on the Animal Justice Party (AJP) WA.

They interview lead candidate Amanda Dorn and Deputy Convenor Natalie Bergen as they discuss their campaign to end greyhound racing, along with other key initiatives such as affordable vet care and protecting wildlife.

The conversation covers the impact of greyhound racing on government spending, systemic changes needed within WA government, and AJP's policies that align with values of kindness, equality, rationality and nonviolence.

Listen in to learn more about the AJP's platform and their passionate drive for political change in WA.

Check out AJP WA's Platform here 👇 https://www.animaljusticeparty.org/our_policies

In this powerful episode of Talking Couch Potatoes, Matt and Mel dive into the misconceptions surrounding Staffy and Bully breeds with special guest Maddie from Staffy and Bully Breed Rescue (SABBR), a no-kill organization serving Perth Metro and regional Western Australia.

Maddie shares the rewarding yet challenging journey of rescuing abandoned, surrendered, and unwanted dogs, all without government funding. She debunks myths about these loving breeds, revealing how they make ideal family pets and deserve a fair chance.

The conversation shines a light on the critical need for foster homes, donations, and resources for rescue groups like SABBR. They discuss the heavy toll greyhound racing takes on local rescues, creating competition for foster homes, forever homes, funding, and dedicated volunteers.

The WA Government Department of Racing and Wagering’s incentives for breeding greyhounds have led to an overpopulation problem, with the expectation that the public will adopt dogs discarded by the industry. Phasing out greyhound racing could profoundly impact local rescues, helping them focus on animals already in need.

With a parliamentary inquiry into the greyhound racing industry on the horizon, it's time to examine the stark contrast between the financial support this industry receives and the constant struggle of grassroots rescues like SABBR. Tune in to discover SABBR’s incredible work and learn how you can help shift the narrative around these misunderstood breeds.

https://www.sabbr.com.au/