Across the globe, greyhound racing is a dying industry that is inherently cruel to dogs. When first invented in the United States in 1919, it could not be understood that thousands upon thousands of dogs would suffer and die. Records were not kept of track injuries or deaths, and the public could not know the final fate of racing dogs.

Now the truth is out, loud and clear! Greyhounds are paying the ultimate price for a low form of “entertainment” that a growing majority of people will no longer countenance.

According to government records now available, common racing injuries include broken necks and broken backs, dislocations, torn muscles, and paralysis. Electrocutions have also occurred when dogs make contact with a track’s high voltage lure. Some dogs die while racing while others are put down due to the severity of their injuries, or simply because of their diminished value as racers.

Thankfully, the decline of greyhound racing has been ongoing for years. Since 2014, the total amount gambled on American greyhound racing has declined by 36%. Additionally, the number of tracks has been reduced to five nationwide. In the United Kingdom, the last London stadium has closed and like many dog tracks before it, will be re-purposed for mixed housing and retail operations. In Ireland, gambling losses of more than 30% have been reported in the last decade, and the racing regulator admitted it was €30 million in debt in late 2015. Jamaica refused to legalize dog racing in 2009 and South Africa followed in 2010, citing both the poor economics and humane problems associated with the activity.  

The trend is definitely with the greyhounds and follows a growing concern for the welfare of all dogs which truly transcends national boundaries and cultures.

Dog racing is legal and operational in seven jurisdictions. Please join us in contacting the leaders of Australia, Ireland, Mexico, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam today.

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