Amid mounting criticism and a high rate of injuries within the greyhound racing industry, New Zealand is set to implement a ban on the sport, showcasing a significant shift in the country's approach to animal welfare.
New Zealand Bans Greyhound Racing Amid Welfare Concerns
New Zealand Bans Greyhound Racing Amid Welfare Concerns
New government legislation aims to phase out the sport within 20 months, emphasizing animal welfare and job transitions for those affected.
New Zealand's government has officially announced its intent to outlaw greyhound racing, citing unacceptable levels of injury among the animals involved. This decision comes after prolonged scrutiny and criticism of the sport, where allegations of mistreatment and doping have marred its reputation. Minister of Racing Winston Peters stated that the government will phase out the industry over the next 20 months, facilitating the rehoming of racing dogs and supporting workers in the transition to alternative employment.
Greyhound racing remains legal in nations like Australia, Ireland, the UK, and the US. However, Peters emphasized that despite advancements, injury rates remain alarmingly high. "It is time to make a decision that prioritizes the welfare of these animals," he said. The government has introduced a bill aimed at preventing the unnecessary euthanasia of racing dogs, with plans for further legislation to bring an end to the sport altogether.
There have been three comprehensive reviews of the greyhound racing sector in the last decade; all indicated a pressing need for reform. Reports revealed that in 2021 alone, 232 racing greyhounds died while 900 sustained injuries. Following these incidents, the government had previously indicated that the industry was "on notice." Reports from the animal rights organization Safe revealed over 2,500 injury cases and nearly 30 fatalities in just two-and-a-half years thereafter, solidifying the need for action.
A major focus now rests on finding homes for the remaining 2,900 racing greyhounds in New Zealand. Animal welfare advocates, including the charity SPCA, hailed this decision as a significant victory for animal rights and are calling for other nations to adopt similar bans.
In contrast, Greyhound Racing New Zealand – the organization representing various racing clubs – expressed disappointment over the government's decision. Chairman Sean Hannan highlighted concerns about the potential cultural and economic impact of eliminating the industry, which contributes 8.5% to the country's NZ$1.3 billion racing sector and employs over 1,000 people.
Hannan appealed to the government to reconsider the ban, saying it undermines the progress that the industry has claimed to have made in recent years. As discussions continue, the focus on animal welfare and the implications for the greyhound racing community remain at the forefront of this heated debate.
Greyhound racing remains legal in nations like Australia, Ireland, the UK, and the US. However, Peters emphasized that despite advancements, injury rates remain alarmingly high. "It is time to make a decision that prioritizes the welfare of these animals," he said. The government has introduced a bill aimed at preventing the unnecessary euthanasia of racing dogs, with plans for further legislation to bring an end to the sport altogether.
There have been three comprehensive reviews of the greyhound racing sector in the last decade; all indicated a pressing need for reform. Reports revealed that in 2021 alone, 232 racing greyhounds died while 900 sustained injuries. Following these incidents, the government had previously indicated that the industry was "on notice." Reports from the animal rights organization Safe revealed over 2,500 injury cases and nearly 30 fatalities in just two-and-a-half years thereafter, solidifying the need for action.
A major focus now rests on finding homes for the remaining 2,900 racing greyhounds in New Zealand. Animal welfare advocates, including the charity SPCA, hailed this decision as a significant victory for animal rights and are calling for other nations to adopt similar bans.
In contrast, Greyhound Racing New Zealand – the organization representing various racing clubs – expressed disappointment over the government's decision. Chairman Sean Hannan highlighted concerns about the potential cultural and economic impact of eliminating the industry, which contributes 8.5% to the country's NZ$1.3 billion racing sector and employs over 1,000 people.
Hannan appealed to the government to reconsider the ban, saying it undermines the progress that the industry has claimed to have made in recent years. As discussions continue, the focus on animal welfare and the implications for the greyhound racing community remain at the forefront of this heated debate.
