The Ethicality of Greyhound Racing
Abby Heino
30 October 2023
Greyhound racing was extremely popular in the United States through the 1980s but has since become a dying industry as humane societies call out inhumane unethical practices.
As of today, racing is illegal in 42 states. There are only two functioning racetracks still open in the United States both residing in the state of West Virginia. The tracks report attendance has gone down 60% since 2020, and they have no objections if they shut down.
It is no mystery why the greyhound racing industry is on its last leg. Racing greyhounds spend upwards of 23 hours a day in small kennels in solitude. According to Florida state records, an average of three greyhounds a day died due to fatal injuries on the track.
Not only do these gentle creatures face unsafe living conditions, but they are subject to inhumane performance enhancing practices. A report from the American Veterinary Medical Association discussed the presence of cocaine in over 230 racing greyhounds in the last 20 years.
Although the sport is becoming increasingly less popular, there are still hundreds of sighthounds confined to small cages experiencing inhumane living and breeding practices. It is important to fight to criminalize greyhound racing throughout the entire United States.
Grey2K is a nonprofit fighting to end greyhound racing not only in the United States, but across the world. They have been instrumental in advocating for greyhounds and promoting legislation to protect these gentle creatures. They have helped pass 21 different greyhound protection laws in the United States.
Despite racing’s declining popularity in the United States, there are still 116 operational tracks across 21 different countries worldwide. Many of these tracks lack regulations protecting dogs.
It is our duty to protect animals and treat them humanely. Ending greyhound racing and encouraging the adoption of ex-racers is the best way to protect this unique and gentle breed. By supporting foundations like Grey2K, ending greyhound racing can be achieved.
Greyhounds make amazing pets, especially for families. Ironically, this fast-footed breed is known for their laziness and can sleep upwards of 18 hours a day. Most importantly, by adopting an ex-racing greyhound you are saving a life by giving a sweet soul a loving home.