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Unwanted greyhounds find more Vic homes

More ex-racing greyhounds are being rehomed in Victoria, helping reduce the euthanasia rates among unwanted dogs.

Unwanted Victorian greyhounds are now almost twice as likely to be rehomed instead of euthanased once they retire.

The number of racing dogs euthanased in Victoria decreased 54 per cent from 3098 to 1429 in the 2016/17 financial year, almost mirroring a shift in the rehoming rate, according to new data.

Over the same 12-month period, a record 1314 retired dogs were adopted out under Greyhound Racing Victoria's program.

A total of 2693 Victorian greyhounds found permanent homes in 2016/17 through the program and other rehoming channels, according to the authority's annual report, released on Thursday.

Statistics show 65 per cent of retired greyhounds were adopted out, while the remainder were euthanased.

In 2015, the Victorian greyhound industry suspended 17 trainers over the live-baiting scandal which rocked the sport across Australia.

"Two years ago Victorian greyhound racing came under intense scrutiny and everyone involved understood that significant change was needed," GRV CEO Alan Clayton said on Thursday.

"For the sport to be viable, an increased emphasis on animal welfare and integrity was needed and these findings are indicative of what has been significant cultural reform right across the state."

The latest statistics also show a decrease in on-track injuries and significant breeding reduction, along with a $5.9 million loss for the authority across the year.


2 min read

Published

Source: AAP



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