Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) is currently conducting an investigation following the removal of seven greyhounds from races at the Warrnambool track due to dehydration. The incident occurred on June 9, with 15 dogs being scratched from 13 races on that day.
GRV took action after an on-track vet identified signs of dehydration in the greyhounds. This led to the prevention of seven dogs from participating in the races. Additionally, a three-year-old greyhound suffered a foreleg fracture during the races and had to be euthanized.
While it is not considered illegal for greyhounds to race in a dehydrated state under Victorian racing regulations, concerns have been raised by an animal welfare group regarding the incident.
All seven greyhounds that were withdrawn from the races came from the same kennel, as confirmed by GRV. Steve Cook from the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds criticized the situation as a “systemic failure” and called for a parliamentary inquiry into the greyhound racing industry.
Regional veterinarian Mark Sycamnias expressed surprise at the unusual occurrence of seven greyhounds presenting with dehydration. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that dogs have access to water and highlighted the potential severe consequences if dehydrated dogs were to race.
The incident has sparked discussions around the industry’s approach to animal welfare and the need for stricter regulations to safeguard the well-being of racing greyhounds. Calls for increased scrutiny and accountability within the greyhound racing sector have been amplified in light of this event.
Efforts to address the underlying issues that led to the dehydration of the greyhounds are underway, with GRV actively investigating the matter. The outcomes of this investigation are eagerly awaited by stakeholders and advocates in the greyhound racing community.
As the industry navigates these challenges, there is a growing emphasis on the ethical treatment of animals and the implementation of measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The welfare of racing greyhounds remains a focal point for ongoing discussions and reforms within the greyhound racing landscape.
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