Companion Animals

Greyhound Racing Welfare and Retirement

Greyhound racing subjects dogs to racing injuries, kennel confinement, and often abandonment at the end of racing careers.

Key Facts

Greyhound racing has been banned in 41 US states and is in rapid decline globally
Racing greyhounds sustain injuries including broken legs, muscle tears, and cardiac events during races
They are typically kenneled for 20-23 hours per day during racing careers
Florida banned greyhound racing in 2018 requiring placement of all retired dogs
Greyhounds make excellent companion animals and adapt quickly to home environments

Welfare Considerations

Racing greyhounds experience welfare harms from intensive kenneling, racing injury risk, and often inhumane disposal at career end. While racing declines globally, thousands of greyhounds still need adoption. They are gentle, adaptable animals that thrive in home environments requiring minimal exercise despite their racing image. Adoption over purchase directly improves welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Adopt a retired greyhound through dedicated breed rescue organizations
Never attend greyhound racing events that support the industry
Advocate for greyhound racing bans in jurisdictions where it continues
Donate to greyhound adoption and racing phase-out advocacy organizations
Share information about greyhound adoption to counter misconceptions about breed temperament