Welfare Science

Greyhound Racing Welfare Reform

Greyhound racing raises welfare concerns about injuries, the fate of retired dogs, and training methods, with the industry declining in many countries and banned in several jurisdictions.

Key Facts

USA banned commercial greyhound racing in all but two states following Florida's 2018 ballot initiative
UK greyhound racing involves around 10,000 injuries per year according to industry data
Thousands of greyhounds are retired or abandoned annually from racing industries
Greyhounds make excellent pets but require owner education about their specific needs
Ireland has the highest greyhound racing density per capita globally

Welfare Considerations

Greyhound racing welfare concerns span injuries during racing, housing standards, training methods, and post-racing fate. The decline of the industry in many countries reduces overall welfare concerns but creates a transition challenge as large numbers of dogs need rehoming. Greyhound adoption is a positive welfare action.

What You Can Do

Adopt a retired greyhound through Greyhound Trust and similar organisations
Advocate against greyhound racing expansion and for welfare standards where it continues
Support Greyhound Trust financially to rehome retired racing dogs