SAFE Animal Squad
The Government will finally make its decision on the future of greyhound racing in Aotearoa before the end of this year. The Minister is weighing three options: maintaining the status quo, introducing regulatory changes, or enacting a ban on greyhound racing.
More than three years ago, the greyhound racing industry was formally put “on notice” for repeatedly failing to improve animal welfare. Since September 2021, despite this warning, there have been 2,974 injuries, 322 broken bones, and 30 deaths* (as of 17th November 2024).
The evidence is clear—greyhound racing is beyond reform. Urge the Government to make the compassionate choice: ban greyhound racing in Aotearoa once and for all.
*Source: Greyhound Racing New Zealand Steward Reports
Racing is inherently dangerous for dogs. On any given day at a greyhound race, dogs risk suffering from broken bones, dislocations, ruptured muscles, spinal damage, and wounds. Some dogs are left permanently disabled, and others suffer injuries so catastrophic they must be euthanised.
Multiple investigations into the industry reveal countless issues beyond injuries, including poor kennel conditions and methamphetamine exposure. Even under intense scrutiny, the industry has repeatedly failed to demonstrate that they can prioritise the health and welfare of dogs.
New Zealand is one of only seven countries to still allow commercial dog racing. If the Government allows greyhound racing to continue, we will struggle to defend our reputation for strong animal welfare on the world stage.
Greyhounds are among the most misunderstood dog breeds. It is a misconception that they are high energy and require lots of exercise. The truth is that while they do enjoy short bursts of activity, the rest of the time they love to nap and cuddle.
Greyhounds are well known for being the fastest dogs on the planet ‒ reaching speeds of up to almost 70 kilometres per hour. Their long, lean bodies carry little fat, which is why you‘ll sometimes see them wearing specially made greyhound pyjamas in winter. Sadly, it’s for this reason that the racing industry uses these placid, gentle dogs.
Greyhound racing exists because of a drive for gambling profits, not because greyhounds love to race.
The social license of greyhound racing has well and truly expired in New Zealand.
In August 2021, SAFE and the Greyhound Protection League of New Zealand presented a 38,000-signature petition calling for a ban on greyhound racing in Aotearoa. An independent poll showed that 74% of New Zealanders would vote to ban greyhound racing in a referendum. Corporate sponsorships are also dwindling, with Ray White, Toyota NZ, Ricoh, First Security and the Motor Trade Association all withdrawing their support of the industry.
New Zealand is one of only five countries where greyhound racing is still practiced. While Australia, Ireland, and the UK still practice greyhound racing regularly, the USA is down to just two operational tracks (both in West Virginia). As global awareness of the industry’s cruelty grows, New Zealand’s continued involvement puts it at odds with the international movement to end dog racing.
A petition with over 100,000 signatures to ban greyhound racing has been recently submitted to the UK government.
In Mexico, the last greyhound racing track closed in Tijuana on July 14th, 2024, marking a major victory for the 150 greyhounds who were subsequently released to adoption centres.
China ended greyhound racing in 2018, after over 90 years of operation.
While greyhound racing is still technically legal in Vietnam, no tracks are currently in operation. The last track ceased racing in 2023, and although there are plans for a new track in Lam Dong province, its completion date remains uncertain.
The industry’s dependence on gambling revenue promotes high-stakes betting, which can have severe financial and emotional impacts on individuals and their families. This reliance can lead to problem gambling, escalating the societal costs linked to gambling harm. By focusing on gambling profits over social responsibility, greyhound racing exacerbates gambling-related issues nationwide.
As a charity, SAFE is reliant on the support of caring people like you to carry out our valuable work. Every gift goes towards providing education, undertaking research and campaigning for the benefit of all animals. SAFE is a registered charity in New Zealand (CC 40428). Contributions of $5 or more are tax-deductible.
