Notice to moderator: I am the author In an article published 27 February, The Sunday Times exposed recent discussions that have taken place between the Irish Greyhound Board and Chinese officials on the development of greyhound racing in China that would ultimately involve the export of Irish dogs to meet the demand generated by such an expansion. Many animal welfare organisations including the Dogs Trust, Dublin SPCA, Irish SPCA and Blue Cross have expressed grave concerns about the discussions. In a joint letter to the media the group stated: “The future of Irish greyhounds in China would at best be short lived and at worst dire and unthinkable.” No regulation of any kind exists in China to protect domestic animals and a track official at the Canidrome (the only greyhound stadium currently operating in China) is reported saying that 400 of their dogs judged too old to race are killed every year. The IGB - a semi-state body - appear, however, indifferent on the greyhound’s fate if a quote in The Sunday Times is anything to go by: “We do not have any influence on the welfare standards adopted in other countries, and these matters are more appropriately dealt with by the country’s own legislative system.” Whilst welfare organisations are horrified at these latest revelations no one is expressing surprise. The greyhound is viewed as a commodity by members of the racing fraternity and as such business considerations override any concern for their welfare. That ultimately could prove the greyhound’s saviour. Not since the horrific pictures exposing the ill treatment and killing of Irish greyhounds exported to Spain has the industry faced such a backlash with British organisations standing united with their Irish counterparts in condemning the very notion of dogs exported to China. Britain is by far the largest market for Irish dogs and the likely adverse economic impact facing the industry in Ireland if the collaboration with China goes ahead will not be lost on the IGB. Not surprisingly the Greyhound Board of Great Britain has to date remained silent on the subject.
Unfortunately I too am not suprised by those involved in the racing industry's lack of caring or in fact rubbing their hands in glee at the money they may make. Not surprised by the IGB staying quiet either - as are all those involved in the industry or who support this so called sport. Dog lovers they surely are not!
