Dog racing industry oversees a third death in as many days

20 July 2012

Dog racing industry oversees a third death in as many days

Three deaths in three days is three too many, was the message that the Greyhound Protection League had for the greyhound racing industry today.

"Greyhound racing has a notorious track record for serious injuries and for too long this activity has had the trusting support of gambling patrons," Greyhound Protection League spokesperson Aaron Cross said today.

"Our message to punters is to have a good look at what's happening behind the scenes in dog racing."

“This week there have been three trackside fatalities, in as many days, and there are still three race meetings to go before the week is out."

“If you enjoy gambling, we think you should be sure to inform yourself with what's happening in an animal welfare context with regard to racing greyhounds."

“The injuries, death and euthanasia rates are disturbing.”

This week the organization, that describes itself as a grassroots collective of concerned individuals also released their flagship campaign - Missing: over 10,000 NZ Greyhounds

Mr Cross says that is the shortfall of greyhound numbers in council Dog Registration records when cross-referenced with breeding and importing statistics.

"For years, decades even, racing enthusiasts have routinely euthanized thousands of non-competitive greyhounds for the cost savings purposes of keeping the better race performers,” said Mr Cross.

“Of course not all greyhounds die once they no longer earn, and the Greyhounds As Pets adoption scheme has helped a few hundred greyhounds, but by and large, this industry is reckless with the lives of these beautiful creatures."

“The dog racing industry sits on millions in the bank at the end of every financial year, but they haven't taken the required steps to ensure permanent safe-houses for unwanted racing greyhounds, who are the backbone of the industry."

ENDS

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