This petition is to request that the AKC make changes to improve safety for dogs running Fast CAT.  

Considering the injury of Firefly, the Greyhound at the 2022 Invitationals in Orlando Florida, we urge the AKC to make improvements. Firefly hit the fence at the end of the course and flipped over it. We do not know the extent of Firefly’s injuries at this time.

This is just one of many accidents that have occurred. Many of these accidents involve hitting the fence at the end. This can happen to any size dog running in an event and is not a danger exclusive to Sighthounds.

Fast CAT is an AKC sport for all breeds of dogs. It has quickly gained in popularity. Dogs run 100 yards and receive a ribbon with their speed which is converted to miles per hour. As the sport has gained popularity, faster and faster dogs have been attracted to it.

It is our request that the AKC put together a committee to review safety, identify potential improvements and implement those changes to improve the safety for all dogs that participate in the sport.  They should review all accidents reported, identify causes, and any other recommendation made by the committee. The committee should recommend changes and how they could be implemented. It is our recommendation that the committee include experts with experience in competition with fast dogs, these could include, but not limited to, Sight Hound Clubs, Lure Coursing Groups, and members of the racing community.

Run out recommendations should be reviewed. The fencing used needs to be in contrast to the grass, or area around it. (Clearly visible to the dog). Fencing needs to be break away and not tied, or staked in a fashion that interferes with safety.  According to Autos. com., It takes a car moving 35 mph 136 feet to stop. Many of these issues happen when the lure was run too far. The dog needs time to move from acceleration to stopping. There is so much to review and consider.

It is our opinion that by making courses safe for the fastest dogs, ALL dogs engaging in the sport will be safer.

We love the sport and want to see it open and available to all breeds. We do not want to create a burden to the clubs and wonderful people that put on the events. We are requesting a review to answer the question, what is possible? 

We respectfully request a formal review of the safety for all dogs that participate in the sport!