New Zealand has officially announced its intention to ban greyhound racing, citing an alarming rate of injuries among the dogs involved in the sport.
This decision marks a significant shift in the country’s stance on greyhound racing, which has faced considerable scrutiny and criticism over the years.
According to BBC, Racing Minister Winston Peters stated that the decision to ban the sport is driven by the need to protect the welfare of racing dogs. Despite notable progress within the industry, the percentage of injuries has remained persistently high.
In 2021 alone, 232 racing greyhounds died, and approximately 900 suffered injuries. These figures, highlighted in local media reports, underscore the ongoing concerns surrounding the treatment of these animals.
The government plans to wind down the greyhound racing industry over the next 20 months, providing time for the rehoming of racing dogs and helping individuals in the industry transition to alternative employment. This phased approach aims to minimize disruption and ensure that the welfare of the dogs is prioritized during the transition.
A “monumental win”
The announcement has elicited mixed reactions. Animal rights organizations, such as Safe, have celebrated the decision, calling it a “monumental win for animal rights.” They have long campaigned against greyhound racing, emphasizing the need for better treatment of animals within the industry.
The SPCA, New Zealand’s oldest animal welfare charity, also expressed its excitement, urging other countries that permit greyhound racing to consider similar actions.
Conversely, Greyhound Racing New Zealand, which represents various racing clubs across the country, expressed devastation over the government’s proposal. The association’s chairman, Sean Hannan, voiced concerns about the potential cultural and economic void that the ban could create.
Greyhound racing contributes significantly to New Zealand’s racing industry, accounting for 8.5 percent of the NZ$1.3 billion ($754.3 million) racing sector and supporting over 1,000 full-time jobs.
