Target: The Hon. David Robert Harris, Minister for Gaming and Racing, New South Wales, Australia
Goal: End the export of greyhounds overseas for to prevent distress and fatalities of former racing dogs.
The continued export of retired greyhounds from New South Wales has been reported as both distressing and sometimes fatal for the animals involved. An independent inquiry uncovered alarming trends, including the documented deaths of six greyhounds during or after transport to the United States under a rehoming program initiated in 2023. Reports indicate three of these dogs wer found dead in their crates due to the stress and heat exposure experienced during long-haul flights, while another was euthanized after suffering a spine fracture caused by an escape from a transport van. The inquiry has emphasized that the absence of meaningful oversight in the rehoming process presents an ongoing risk to these vulnerable animals.
The inquiry’s findings highlighted systemic failures within the greyhound racing industry, including a lack of regulation surrounding the number of greyhound births and the long periods many retired dogs spend in kenneling. Alarmingly, statistics show at least one dog dying and around 300 becoming injured in races each month, alongside the concerning revelation that no race track in New South Wales has complied with minimum safety standards set since 2020. The government’s recent declaration calling for heightened oversight falls shorts of addressing pressing issues such as the humane treatment of greyhounds, as it failed to commit to critical recommendations including a suspension of the greyhound racing industry should regulations not be met.
It is essential to take decisive action to halt the export of greyhounds for overseas rehoming and to prioritize safe domestic rehoming programs instead. Immediate changes are needed to ensure these animals are treated humanely and with dignity after their racing careers.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Minister Harris,
The ongoing export of retired greyhounds from New South Wales has raised serious ethical concerns, particularly highlighted by an independent inquiry led by Lea Drake. This inquiry claims that the export program has resulted in the deaths of six greyhounds, with three being found dead in their kennels after long-haul flights and another euthanized due to a severe injury sustained during transport. Such incidents illustrate the distressing and potentially fatal implications of shipping these dogs overseas, as the lack of accountability in oversight places their welfare at grave risk.
Moreover, the report outlined deeper issues within the greyhound racing industry, including unregulated births leading to high numbers of dogs who may never find suitable homes. With each passing month, one dog is dying and around 300 are getting injured in races, underscoring the urgent need for significant reform. The community deserves a racing framework that prioritizes the welfare of these animals and adheres to humane standards. Continuing to allow their export overseas only perpetuates an exploitative cycle and undermines any progress made in addressing their needs.
It is imperative that the export of greyhounds for rehoming overseas be ended immediately. The state government must seize this opportunity to prioritize domestic rehoming initiatives, guaranteeing the safety and well-being of these dogs as they transition from racing to retirement. Taking this stand is essential in acknowledging their service and ensuring their lives are filled with care and compassion instead of danger and distress.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
