Change Coming to Australian Dog Racing Industry

Over the last two days, GREY2K USA Worldwide President Christine Dorchak and I held a series of key meetings in Melbourne, Australia, during the second leg of our campaign trek through Australasia and China.

We Meet With the Excellent Animals Australia Team

First, we held a comprehensive strategy meeting with powerhouse humane organization Animals Australia. In many ways Animals Australia reminds me of our key British ally, the League Against Cruel Sports. It is clever, committed, and not afraid to take on a tough fight. The work Animals Australia is doing for greyhounds is one of the most significant new developments in the global fight to end dog racing.

We then met with several top officials from RSPCA Australia, a national non-profit organization that is widely respected and speaks with a powerful voice in advocating for Australian greyhounds.


These visits were followed by a series of meetings with top representatives from the Australian greyhound racing industry, including Greyhounds Australasia CEO Scott Parker. We had a very open conversation, a stark contrast to the bunker mentality we experienced in New Zealand, and have witnessed for years in America. During nearly four hours of talks, it became clear that industry executives in Australia are fully aware that commercial dog racing is out of step with mainstream values on animal welfare, and fundamental changes are necessary.

After these industry talks, we received an informative briefing on the Australian political system from leaders of the Animals Justice Party. The Party recently won its first parliamentary seat, and will no doubt lead the passage of major humane victories in the years to come.

Carey Theil and Scott Parker After Hours of Industry Talks

Finally, we had dinner with the Greyhound Equality Society and Amazing Greys Greyhound Rescue and Adoption. The Greyhound Equality Society is doggedly fighting to repeal a wrongheaded requirement that all adopted greyhounds be muzzled in public, a victory that seems inevitable. Meanwhile, Amazing Greys is doing incredible work helping to find homes for rescued greyhounds, with an all-volunteer effort. This meeting provided us with invaluable insights about greyhound adoption in Victoria, and was a wonderful end to our time in Melbourne.

Even though we have only been in the country for a few days, it is breathtaking to see how many different people are working to improve the lives of greyhounds. Mainstream animal protection groups, adoption advocates, political parties and even the industry itself all recognize that the status quo cannot continue, and greyhounds deserve better. Based on these meetings, I am more confident than ever that fundamental changes are on the way Down Under.

The Importance of Supporting Greyhound Adoption

Whaler lives with a loving family in Michigan

Across the country, non-profit greyhound rescue organizations work tirelessly to find homes for dogs coming off the track. We owe a debt of gratitude to these groups and their volunteers, who are true heroes. That is why GREY2K USA maintains a national listing of greyhound adoption organizations, and regularly gives adoption referrals.

We also financially support greyhound adoption. Between GREY2K USA and the GREY2K USA Education Fund, we have given more than $34,000 to non-profit greyhound adoption organizations since 2009. During that period we made more than one hundred donations to groups across the country and world, including organizations in Kansas, New Hampshire, Wisconsin, Florida, Idaho, California, Ohio, Virginia, New Jersey, Minnesota, New Mexico, Indiana, Arizona, Michigan, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, Pennsylvania, New York, Texas, Kentucky, Georgia, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, France, Guam and Spain.

This is an issue that should not be politicized. Greyhound adoption should be an area where everyone sets aside their differences and works together. Unfortunately, greyhound breeders have instead decided to use adoption as a political weapon, in an attempt to save their dying industry.

Last year, the Iowa Greyhound Association asked its members not to give dogs to adoption groups who speak out. This year greyhound breeders have gone a step further, and are actually calling for a ban on greyhound adoptions to people who don't share their political views.

This disturbing policy was voiced last week by racing greyhound owner Betty Carlson-Jameson on Facebook:

"I will NEVER and I do mean NEVER let one of my pups be adopted by an anti racing person!!!!!!!!"

It was echoed by another racing greyhound owner, Lisa Wheeler Pollington:

"I don't care if she feeds the dog prime beef on gold plated dishes. If (she) wants racing ended, she's not going to get her hands on one of my dogs if I have anything to do with it."

This is another example of how greyhound breeders put their political and financial interests ahead of animal welfare. To them the adoption community is just another group to intimidate, and use to perpetuate their cruelty.

Animal advocates should respond to this manipulative policy by giving even more to greyhound adoption. That is why GREY2K USA increased our adoption donations in 2013, and plan on giving even more this year.

We also need your help. Please make a generous donation to a greyhound adoption group in your community today. Together, we can make sure our compassion overcomes the strong-arm tactics of dog race promoters.

Artists Speak up for Greyhounds

At its heart, GREY2K USA is truly a grassroots movement. Our supporters come from many different backgrounds and have diverse political views. Despite our differences we share one common value: we believe greyhound racing is cruel and inhumane and should end.

In that spirit we are proud to be supported this month by Etsy for Animals (EFA). According to its website, EFA is a team of independent artists, craftspeople, vintage sellers and craft suppliers on Etsy.com who are dedicated to supporting animal protection causes. These compassionate creators use their talents to help animals, and chose GREY2K USA as their Charity of the Month for September. This nomination will help us fulfill our ongoing mission to fight for greyhounds and bring about change.

That is probably why dog track promoters became so angry when they learned of EFA's choice to support GREY2K USA. The American Greyhound Council, the public relations arm of the racing industry, even sent out a national press statement calling EFA a "clueless group." Meanwhile, greyhound race supporters bombarded EFA with false information about GREY2K USA and tried to intimidate the artists with threats of a boycott. This response shouldn't come as a surprise. After all, the dog racing industry has a long history of bullying anyone who gives greyhounds a voice. In recent years they have personally attacked lawmakers, openly fantasized about the death of greyhound advocates, and threatened adoption groups who speak out.

In EFA, however, greyhound breeders met their match. Instead of backing down, the group responded to these threats by publishing a powerful essay about the cruelty of dog racing. In part, EFA wrote:

"It is not enough simply to continue to rescue greyhound after greyhound that has been purpose bred to race. The cycle of using these dogs as disposable commodities needs to end, and just like all other breeds of dog, greyhound(s) deserve to be born and live their whole lives as family pets."

This courageous stand should be an example for all of us. Etsy for Animals was faced with a choice: to continue speaking up for greyhounds, or be silenced by promoters of a cruel industry. They chose to do right by the dogs, and for that we should all be grateful.

Two-Faced Report Highlights Greyhound Suffering and Death in New Zealand

A greyhound at Manukau Stadium in Auckland, November 2012 

In February the Greyhound Protection League of New Zealand presented more than 1,500 signatures to the government, and called  for an independent review of greyhound racing. Although this call for transparency has not yet led to government action, it did result in a very unusual response from dog race promoters.

Last week, the New Zealand Greyhound Racing Association released a 56-page report in which they review themselves, while at the same time calling it an "independent" inquiry. Their findings are, to put it mildly, a bit bizarre.

The report begins by announcing on the very first page that the authors found no evidence of  humane problems:

"The review team investigations found little evidence of issues relating to the care of greyhounds during their racing careers."

It goes on to add:

"Interviews with participants in the Greyhound Racing industry highlighted that many owners and trainers are committed to the welfare and safety of their dogs and care passionately about them throughout their lives."

Of course, it is no surprise that the dog racing industry would approve of the way it does business. What is surprising, however, is the rest of the report. Once you get past this blanket dismissal, the remainder of the review represents the strongest case yet for why dog racing should end. In fact, documentation of a serious humane issue is cited in the very next paragraph:

"Our analyses suggest that approximately 35% of greyhounds whelped never make it to the track. Due to a lack of effective reporting the review team was unable to establish what happens to these greyhounds."

In the paragraph after that, the report indicates that roughly seven hundred greyhounds were killed between 2009 and 2012, and that the true number may be much higher:

"30% of the 2,305 greyhounds leaving racing between 2009 and 2012 are recorded as deceased by NZGRA with the potential for this number to be significantly higher due to the lack of effective tracking of retired greyhounds."

The next thirty pages are essentially a long laundry list of one humane problem after another:

"A further issue facing the greyhound racing industry is the incidence of injuries occurring during racing."

"Although there is veterinary attendance and at every race meeting, the practice of recording and monitoring injuries in NZ has been inadequate."

"In the process of the review a culture of non-enforcement and non-compliance of welfare rules was evident."

"There is a need for more responsibility to be taken by greyhound owners for their dogs. There are currently no NZGRA rules that specifically impart this responsibility."

"There are no controls or regulations in place over controlling the numbers or quality of greyhounds bred."

"During our review we asked owners and trainers if they have ever had a healthy greyhound euthanized. The response was that 77% have had a healthy greyhound euthanized."

This extensive recitation of animal welfare concerns is briefly interrupted on page 31, when the report strangely claims again that there are no problems:

"Whilst there will always be exceptions in any diverse community, it is our conclusion that, on the whole, racing greyhounds during their career are well looked after and cared for."

However, this denial is contradicted by the very next sentence, which indicates that "there are no formal minimum standards of welfare in place."
In its closing pages, the report continues to document a myriad of serious animal welfare concerns:

"It is noticeable that 40% of trainers interviewed did not know that NZGRA has an Animal Welfare Policy."

"There is currently no detailed analysis of injury reporting undertaken and there are no analyses in place to establish issues with particular tracks or parts of tracks, particular trainers or particular greyhounds."

"The NZGRA Board formed an Animal Welfare Committee in 2012 ... However, it is noted that there are no independent members on this committee with a detailed knowledge of animal welfare matters."

"The NZGRA Board has not been as pro-active as it should have been with regard to welfare issues."

"There is currently no designated Welfare Officer in place at NZGRA and it is noted that welfare activities undertaken by NZGRA are performed by several management and staff members on top of their standard workloads."

Finally, the review ends by stating that there is a "clear need" for "change in the greyhound racing industry in terms of rules and regulations, education and awareness, and in attitudes towards welfare."

I have to wonder whether such a two-faced report could only come from the greyhound racing industry. To summarize this bizarre review, there are no problems, except there are lots of problems, but there really are no problems, and finally there is a "clear need" to fix the problems that the industry does not have.

Lawmakers, journalists, and members of the public should read this report thoroughly and draw their own conclusions. Do they really want to support an industry that is responsible for so much greyhound suffering and death?

Macau Government: Brooklyn is Still Alive

According to the Macau government, Brooklyn the greyhound is still alive.

Brooklyn is a four-year-old red, white and fawn greyhound who was born in Australia. He has spent the last several years at the Canidrome dog track in Macau, a deeply troubled facility where all greyhounds eventually die.

GREY2K USA Board member Charmaine Settle took Brooklyn's photograph when she inspected the Canidrome in October 2011. Since then his story has been reported by newspapers across the world, and he has become the face of a global campaign to help all of the Macau greyhounds.

More than eight months have passed since Brooklyn last raced, and with each passing day we have become increasingly concerned. On May 5, 2012 he apparently fell during a race, was injured and finished sixth. According to a translation of the tracks' website, his "hind leg" was "cut wounded on web." Six days later, an update was posted which stated that his injury had been "cured."

Last month we sent a letter to the Macau Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau, and asked them to determine Brooklyn's fate. In part, we wrote:

"Seven months have now passed since Brooklyn was reportedly 'cured' of his injury, yet he has never raced again.  Sadly, we fear he may no longer be alive."

Today, we received an official response from the Macau government which claims that Brooklyn is in fact still alive. According to the government:

"Please be notified that Brooklyn, which is now under the ownership of Macau (Yat Yuen) Canidrome Co. Ltd., is still in recess after his injury had been cured."

The government's response also addressed the effort to create an adoption program at the track, a program that has still not been implemented:

"During the past few months, we found that the IACM has already been discussing and co-operating with Macau Canidrome and Macau's Society for the Protection of Animals (ANIMA). Also, they are now still in the process studying and arranging the adoption program for the dogs retired."

Finally, the government said that they will continue to monitor the situation and Brooklyn in particular:

"As being compliance with our competences and obligations, and respecting the willingness of the owner of Brooklyn, we should continue to pay close attention on the development of this issue."

We are relieved to hear that Brooklyn is apparently still alive. At the same time, there is much more work that needs to be done to help the Canidrome dogs. Please visit RescueBrooklyn.org today, and lend your voice to this important fight. I know that together, we can bring about change at this terrible track.

Greyhound Breeders Can't Handle the Truth

One of the photos that greyhound breeders don't want you to see

Earlier this week we released The Secret Life of Greyhound Puppies, a groundbreaking new video that documents the greyhound breeding industry. In a matter of hours, more than two thousand people watched this video and saw for themselves how greyhound puppies live.

Across the country thousands of young greyhounds are kept outside in dirt pens and are tattooed at a young age. Meanwhile, breeding dogs endure lives of confinement in small cages. This is a sad reality of the greyhound racing industry, and something we are working to change.

Yesterday, The Secret Life of Greyhound Puppies was temporarily removed from YouTube after greyhound breeder Wendy Brotherton filed a false copyright complaint. We immediately responded to this false claim, and expect the video to be fully restored soon.

This is not the first time that dog race promoters have tried to intimidate us and prevent the public from seeing what happens to greyhounds. In fact, we have faced similar false complaints repeatedly over the years. Every single time, we have fought these false complaints and won. Most notably, we won a lawsuit by dog track owner Charlie Sarkis in which he wrongly claimed he had been defamed. In addition to winning the case, the court ordered Sarkis to pay our full attorneys fees as a penalty for his misrepresentation.

America was founded, in part, on the public right to freedom of speech. When it comes to copyrights, citizens have a fair use for certain uses such as education and public participation. At GREY2K USA, we document the greyhound racing industry in unprecedented ways, and give the public accurate information that allows them to cast informed votes and make good consumer choices. We are proud of our record, and know that our best days are ahead of us.

Finally, it shouldn't surprise anyone that greyhound breeders would resort to extreme measures to hide their cruelty. They have a long track record of trying to intimidate lawmakers, greyhound advocates, and the greyhound adoption community. One thing is certain, though. With your support, we won't let them get away with it.

Help Didn't Come Soon Enough for Isaiah the Greyhound

Photo by FL Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation

A year ago, a Florida proposal to decouple greyhound racing from other forms of gambling stalled on the last day of the legislative session. Even though the measure had passed overwhelmingly in both the State House of Representatives and State Senate, it lost steam in the final hours and did not become law. I was heartbroken, and knew the failure of this important bill would result in the needless suffering and death of more greyhounds.

In fighting for Florida's greyhounds, we assembled a strong and diverse coalition. Supporters included the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, The Humane Society of the United States, Greyhound Adoptions of Florida, and newspapers across the state. The measure was also supported by racetrack owners who are losing money on live greyhound racing. Our coalition remains strong today, and I am optimistic that we will pass greyhound decoupling into law. This change, however, cannot come soon enough for the dogs now at Florida tracks.

Sadly, some dogs have already needlessly suffered due to the failure of decoupling legislation. For example, on July 10 a four-year-old greyhound named Kiowa JSK Isaiah died at Flagler. According to records we obtained from the state, he collapsed after winning a race and suffered a fatal heart attack. Isaiah's death was completely avoidable. In fact, it's possible that had decoupling become law in 2011 Isaiah would be lounging on a couch somewhere, living with a loving family.

For Isaiah, greyhound decoupling did not come soon enough. I know that greyhound racing will eventually end in Florida, the question now is how long it will take and how many more dogs will become casualties of inaction.

Over the past two years, the only real opposition to decoupling has come from greyhound breeders. Of course, these breeders have a direct financial interest in preventing change. The current racing mandate is effectively a state subsidy for their cruel business, and they will do whatever it takes to perpetuate it. These greyhound breeders have also convinced a small number of greyhound adopters, by using scare tactics, to oppose decoupling. They have made all sorts of wild accusations, including the false claim that decoupling will somehow harm greyhounds.

The truth, however, is that doing nothing in Florida is harming greyhounds. Dogs like Isaiah can no longer wait. It's time for greyhound decoupling to pass, so that thousands of greyhounds can be given the second chance they deserve.

Final Thoughts on Dog Racing in the United Kingdom

Christine Dorchak with Paul Littlefair of the RSPCA

Yesterday, GREY2K USA President Christine Dorchak and I returned from our fact-finding trip to learn about greyhound racing in the United Kingdom. The final days of this trip were perhaps the most hectic of all.

On Thursday we traveled to Horsham to meet with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The RSPCA was the first established animal welfare charity in the world, and today helps animals in many ways. This meeting helped us understand the history of the animal welfare movement in the United Kingdom, and the work the RSPCA is already doing to help greyhounds. Needless to say, this context is invaluable.

On Friday we traveled to Hastings to meet with Kim Stallwood. Kim has decades of experience in the animal protection movement, and is an expert on the subject of political action for animals. He is also working on a new book, titled Animal Dharma.

Poppy and Banana enjoy the 1,000 Greyhounds event

We ended our trip on Sunday by participating in an event in Devon called 1,000 Greyhounds. Organizers set the very ambitious goal of breaking the Guinness World Record for the largest single-breed dog walk, while also raising funds for greyhound adoption. Even though the event fell short of the record, hundreds of rescued greyhounds from all over the country participated. We were honored to help sponsor this event, and meet many wonderful advocates and adopters. Some of the adoption and advocacy groups that also sponsored 1,000 Greyhounds include Action for Greyhounds, Dogs Trust, Greyhound Safe and the Retired Greyhound Trust.

We learned a tremendous amount about greyhound racing in the United Kingdom in just a few short days. We also met many wonderful greyhound advocates who believe that the dogs deserve better. We look forward to working with these humane leaders in future efforts to help greyhounds.

Finally, I'm disappointed that we were not given a meeting with the Greyhound Board of Great Britain even though we requested one. There are many questions we would have liked to ask the industry directly, but for now those questions remain unanswered.

Meet GREY2K USA Board Member Eric Jackson

As a national non-profit organization, GREY2K USA is governed by a Board of Directors. Our Board members are deeply committed to greyhound advocacy, and support our campaigns in many ways. Over the next few weeks, I will be highlighting GREY2K USA Board members and their continuing dedication to greyhound protection.

Schroeder the Greyhound

Although GREY2K USA is primarily an advocacy organization, our mission also includes promoting and supporting greyhound adoption. Our commitment to adoption, and our love of greyhounds, is exemplified by Board Vice President Eric Jackson.

Eric and his wife Kathy adopted their first greyhound seven years ago after attending a meet and great hosted by Greyhound Companions of New Mexico (GCNM). At the event, he met a very large red and white greyhound named Schroeder. When they eventually adopted Schroeder, he came into the house and immediately put his head on the bathroom counter. It was a transition for Eric to live with such a large dog; he had grown up with cats and at the time was living with a rescued white boxer named Rose. Despite his size, however, Schroeder was a gentle giant. Although he was shy, he was especially fond of women and would come up to house guests and ask to be petted.

Sadly, Eric lost Schroeder a few months ago. But even with this loss the Jackson family now lives with four greyhounds, including a black foster greyhound named Ellie. The family also includes an elderly Pomeranian named Jake.

Eric teaches psychology at the University of New Mexico, and gives a tremendous amount of his time to volunteer for greyhound advocacy and welfare. He currently serves as the Communications Director for GCNM, and helps GREY2K USA with long-term strategic planning. His professional background also helps us understand the various rationalizations that greyhound breeders use to defend their cruel business.

Eric does a tabling event for GREY2K USA and GCNM

Eric tells me that he volunteers so much of his time because he believes that greyhounds deserve better. He is particularly appalled by the way greyhounds are kept, and would like to see an end to what he calls the "commercial warehousing" of greyhounds.

Eric acknowledges that it can be difficult to be a greyhound advocate and also work in adoption, but he says that it is worth it. He finds it very rewarding to help greyhounds.

We are very lucky to have Eric on the GREY2K USA Board of Directors. He is a tremendous asset to the organization, and a powerful voice for the greyhounds.

GREY2K USA Honors Greyhound Adoption Heroes

Board Member Tom Grey with Joyce Carta & Marilyn Varnberg

This weekend, I joined the GREY2K USA Board of Directors in honoring greyhound adoption leaders from around the country.  Their work was the focus of our annual benefit dinner and awards ceremony, which was held in Tampa, Florida.

It was incredibly powerful to be with so many people who have dedicated their lives to helping greyhounds.  Thousands of dogs have found loving homes as a direct result of their efforts, and they are true heroes.  The adoption advocates we honored included:

• Marilyn Varnberg, Founder, Greyhound Adoptions of Florida 
• Sally Allen, President, USA Defenders of Greyhounds
• Kelly Faircloth, President, Greyhound REscue and Adoptions of Tampa Bay
• Judy Paulsen, President, Greyhound Companions of New Mexico 
• Bob Smith and Barbara Davenport, Founders, The Homestretch Greyhound Rescue & Adoption
• David Wolf, Founder, National Greyhound Adoption Program

These adoption leaders have also been fearless in speaking out for the dogs, and need your support.  If you live near any of these groups, please consider volunteering some of your time with them.  Also, all of these groups need donations to help their ongoing adoption programs.

Finally, the best way to honor these selfless advocates is to consider adopting a greyhound yourself.  To find an adoption group near you, please visit our Greyhound Adoption page.

If you are able to take home a new greyhound friend, you will be glad you did.  My rescued greyhound Zoe brings me joy each and every day!

Proposal to Promote Greyhound Adoption Advances Despite Opposition from Breeders

Over the past two weeks GREY2K USA participated in a contest hosted by GOOD, a collaboration of individuals, non-profits and businesses that have joined together in the shared goal of "pushing the world forward." The contest asked organizations to submit proposals indicating how $2,500 would support and expand their work.

Our proposal was to sponsor digital billboards throughout Florida that would point readers to a web site with greyhound adoption information and links to rescue groups. We released several billboard designs that were created by GREY2K USA Communications Manager Danielle Festa, and you will find these designs at right.

In total 443 proposals were submitted to GOOD, addressing a wide variety of important issues. As of right now, it appears that GREY2K USA will finish third out of these 443 proposals. Obviously, we hoped we would win this contest and are disappointed to finish third. Nonetheless, we are thankful for all of our supporters who voted for the greyhounds, and are grateful to GOOD for this wonderful opportunity.

Most importantly, I'm happy to announce that despite this third-place finish our adoption billboard proposal will move forward. Thanks to generous donations by greyhound advocates from across the country, the GREY2K USA Education Fund has already raised more than $1,500 for this project to promote adoption. We have also submitted an application to a very compassionate foundation for this project and now await a response. If you are interested in helping, please make a tax-deductible donation today.

Finally, it is important to note that this is only one way in which GREY2K USA supports and promotes greyhound adoption. We encourage our supporters to adopt these wonderful dogs, which my adopted friend Zoe would tell you make wonderful companions. GREY2K USA also gives adoption referrals to greyhound adoption groups across the world, and regularly makes contributions to adoption groups. Since 2009, GREY2K USA and the GREY2K USA Education Fund have made more than fifty direct contributions to adoption groups in seventeen states.

As the cruelty of dog racing ends, greyhound breeders have begun circulating all sorts of false accusations and personal attacks regarding our work. One common myth they spread is that GREY2K USA does not support greyhound adoption. That is patently false. It is also deeply ironic in light of the industry's policy of threatening adoption groups that speak up for the dogs.

In fact, I'm sad to say that greyhound racing supporters even opposed our billboard proposal to promote greyhound adoption. This opposition is further proof that greyhound breeders are willing to put their financial interests before the welfare of the dogs. Their reckless profit priority is yet another reason why greyhound racing must end.

Historic Agreement Reached to Help Dogs Racing in Macau, but Track Breaks Promise

Four months ago, we wrote to the Canidrome racetrack in Macau and asked them to release Brooklyn the greyhound. Brooklyn is a four-year-old white, red, and fawn greyhound who is currently racing at the Canidrome. Like other greyhounds at the track, Brooklyn was likely born in Australia.

Every year, hundreds of greyhounds are killed at the Canidrome when they are no longer profitable. The track has no adoption program, and we knew that if we were unable to help Brooklyn, he would eventually be killed.

Because of this impending peril, we hoped to receive a quick response from the track's management. But days passed, and no response came. Soon, days became weeks and weeks turned into months. To this day, we have received no formal reply.

A few weeks ago, however, things began to change for the greyhounds in Macau. At the request of the Macau government, the racetrack entered into formal negotiations with government officials and ANIMA, a local animal protection organization headed by director Albano Martins. After hours of talks over several days, a groundbreaking agreement was tentatively reached.

Under this historic agreement, Brooklyn would be transferred to ANIMA and eventually adopted. This would be a sign of good faith on behalf of the Canidrome, which also agreed to create an adoption program for all the the greyhounds racing at the track.

It is important to keep in mind that this agreement would not address all of the problems at the Canidrome. Unfortunately, a large number of greyhounds are injured at the track. Also, it is unclear how many of the Macau greyhounds can be adopted. There are significant logistical challenges in finding homes for all of these dogs, which will likely need to be shipped to other countries.

Nonetheless, this agreement was an important first step for the greyhounds. All of the parties should be proud of this accomplishment, which would not have been possible without the leadership of ANIMA and the Macau government.

Sadly, over the past few days this historic agreement has begun to falter. The first greyhound was scheduled to be transferred to ANIMA yesterday, and the deadline passed without the track meeting its obligation. Track managers are now claiming that they must obtain independent approval from the legal owners of dogs in order to move forward. This is simply nonsense, and is refuted by the fact that the largest owner of greyhounds at the Canidrome is the track itself.

Despite this apparent setback, I am hopeful that we are on the verge of a major breakthrough in our effort to help the Macau greyhounds. We are encouraged by these recent developments, and will continue working with Animals Australia, Animals Asia and others until this situation is fully resolved.

In his most recent race, Brooklyn finished first. It would be wonderful if his next race was straight to a couch, and the home of a loving family.

Give Zoe the Greyhound a Birthday Gift by Adopting a New Friend

On Sunday, my rescued greyhound Zoe will celebrate her tenth birthday. For our entire family, this will be cause for celebration.

A few months ago, we nearly lost our friend when she was misdiagnosed with bone cancer. Thankfully, a good veterinarian discovered her real problem -- a relatively minor neck issue -- and she has since made a full recovery.

I've lived with adopted animals for decades. These friends provide us with more than just companionship, they give us fuller lives. Also, I am constantly inspired by the dedication of greyhounds like DeeDee, the trusted service dog.

Zoe's birthday, April 1st, also marks the beginning of Adopt-A-Greyhound Month. As a birthday gift to her, please consider adopting a new friend. To find out how, contact a local adoption group today.

Finally, if you are unable to adopt a greyhound but would still like to make a difference, please consider helping in other ways. Find a local greyhound adoption group near you, and consider making a donation or volunteering some of your time.

Zoe will appreciate it.

Decline of Dog Racing Industry Continues

GREY2K USA has received updated data on the number of dogs registered to race, and the statistics are good news for greyhound advocates.

In 2011, a total of 11,759 greyhounds were registered to compete in the United States. This is the lowest total in decades, and represents an 8% decrease from 2010. In short, fewer greyhounds are being bred to race.

This is wonderful news, and will directly benefit dogs. As a result of this registration decrease, it is very likely that fewer greyhounds will be killed than ever before. This reduction also means that fewer greyhounds will endure lives of confinement and suffer serious injuries.

Of course, this decline also provides more evidence that dog racing is a dying industry. In fact, as of December 2011 the National Greyhound Association (NGA) had only 1,460 members nationwide, and their membership has declined by 12% over the last year.

Greyhound breeders often make outrageous claims about the effect dog racing has on local economies. The fact is, however, that greyhound racing is no longer economically relevant. Dog racing is a thing of the past, and this reality is reflected by the NGA's low membership.

For greyhound advocates, these new statistics are encouragement that dog racing's days are numbered. For the greyhounds themselves, the end of this cruel industry couldn't come fast enough.

Dog Racing Promoters Spin Dangerous Adoption Policy While Threats Continue

The dog racing industry is working overtime to defend their wrongheaded adoption policy, which discourages people from adopting from any group that speaks up for the dogs.

Yesterday, the American Greyhound Council (AGC), which serves as the industry's public relations arm, tried to put a positive spin on this dangerous policy. Specifically, the AGC claimed that their new policy is merely "preferring to work with moderate adoption organizations that take a cooperative, constructive approach."

Of course, for the dog racing industry a "cooperative, constructive approach" means adhering to its code of silence. The message that is being sent is very clear: if greyhound adoption groups speak up for the dogs or advocate for their welfare in any way, they will face retribution.

Meanwhile, other members of the dog racing industry are doubling down on their rhetoric about greyhound adoption. One pro-industry blog even posted a troubling message yesterday that included a reference to valuing "your greyhound:"

"If you value your greyhound, think first before you get a greyhound from an anti-racing group."

Finally, in an attempt to distract attention from this dangerous policy, greyhound breeders have begun to fabricate statements about greyhound adoption. For example, dog racing supporters have been circulating a purported "quote" they claim was made by GREY2K USA Board Member Eric Jackson. Eric is a long-time greyhound adoption advocate who serves as a volunteer for Greyhound Companions of New Mexico. According to dog racing supporters, Eric stated that "GREY2K USA is going to continue working to stop the flow of racing greyhounds into adoption."

This is a perversion of his actual statement. In reality, here is what Eric said:

"Clearly we have a substantial difference of opinion about the racing of greyhounds. I'm pleased that you continue to find homes for former racers, as we do. And if you want to actually reach the stated goal of 100% adoption, there are any number of anti-racing groups who are ready, willing, and able to help. Meanwhile, GREY2K USA is going to continue working to stop the flow of racing greyhounds into adoption by stopping the industry that breeds them without sufficient plans to rehome them."

As you can see, what Eric actually said is the exact opposite of what dog racing supporters are now claiming. I suppose we should expect this kind of political trickery from the dog racing industry, which has proven time and again that it is more interested in profits than in animal welfare.

The bottom line is that there are many wonderful adoption groups that have the courage to speak up for the dogs, and these non-profit organizations help thousands of greyhounds. One good example is the National Greyhound Adoption Program, which has adopted out more than 7,000 rescued greyhounds since its formation. Those 7,000 greyhounds would be killed, rather than find homes, under the dangerous policy now being promoted by the racing industry.

Greyhound adoption should be an area where we all put aside our differences and work together. Neither side of the dog racing debate should politicize greyhound adoption, but instead seek common ground. Sadly, those who promote dog racing are primarily interested in greyhound adoption as a public relations tool. In their own words, they want adoption groups that will be "cooperative" with their cruel industry.

The Dog Racing Industry's Code of Silence

Last week, I wrote about how the Iowa Greyhound Association (IGA) asked people to not adopt from any group that speaks up for the greyhounds.

We have now discovered that this is not a random act by Iowa greyhound breeders, but instead is apparently part of an overall strategy by the greyhound racing industry to enforce a code of silence.

Shortly after I posted about the IGA's dangerous adoption policy, Iowa greyhound breeders posted a response on their website by Marsha Kelly. Ms. Kelly is a political operative who works for the dog racing industry, and has a reputation for scorched-earth tactics. Just in the past few weeks, she has publicly referred to the Governor of Arizona as a "whacked out bitch" and called the Governor of Wisconsin a "weasel."

In her response for the IGA, Kelly restated the dog racing industry's myth about adoption statistics, made various false claims about GREY2K USA, and stated:

"The success of our adoption effort has never and will never depend on the participation of a handful of extremely hostile 'anti-racing' groups. We don't need to depend on the hate-mongers."

Sadly, this wrongheaded attempt to stop people from adopting greyhounds could have real consequences. Despite what Ms. Kelly would have people believe, greyhounds are still being killed when they are no longer profitable. Just a few days ago, dog racing supporter and adoption advocate Pam Davis acknowledged this fact on Facebook:

"There are a lot of dogs not accounted for and we know where some of them went (not to homes)."

In the same discussion thread, a volunteer for Greyhound Pets of America Emerald Coast made a similar statement:

"PE is still euthanizing perfectly healthy dogs. We try to take every one of them but track politics betwn (sic) trainers makes that impossible for us."

Meanwhile, another adoption advocate with links to the industry claimed that healthy greyhounds are not only killed at low end tracks, but also at high-level racing facilities:

"I could throw out names ... but all I would end up with is a lawsuit. It's definitely not 100% even at top tracks."

This last statement is particularly troubling, and goes to the heart of the issue. Even some members of the dog racing industry know that greyhounds are being killed, and want to see change. They don't speak out, however, because they are afraid of facing retribution. According to dog racing supporter Myke Stewart:

"I can't say much of anything here, since I still have family with viable interests in the racing industry and would do NOTHING to jeopardize their standing or jobs."

That is the real game that is being played. The greyhound racing industry and its spin doctors, like Marsha Kelly, are apparently willing to go to any lengths to hide the truth about their cruel practices. For years, they have intimidated industry members who seek change, and are now doing the same thing to any greyhound adoption group that speaks up for the dogs.

This behavior is outrageous, and proves yet again that the greyhound racing industry is willing to put its financial interests ahead of animal welfare. On this issue, I agree with a comment made by adoption volunteer Julie Richardson Costello, who was responding to some of the statements cited above:

"For crying out loud. Be the voice for those that cannot speak. Sounds like the pathetic Penn State scandal. All the witnesses and ears looking the other way."

Well said, Julie. I couldn't have said it better myself.

Greyhound Breeders Use Adoption as a Weapon in Bid to Save Cruel Dog Racing

In state legislatures across the country, bills to reduce or eliminate greyhound racing are moving forward. This is wonderful news for greyhound advocates, and is further proof that the end of dog racing is inevitable.

This positive momentum, however, has once again caused greyhound breeders to resort to the worst kind of scorched-earth tactics. The most egregious example of their desperation is from Iowa, where dog racing supporters are now telling people not to adopt greyhounds from any organization that speaks up for the dogs.

In the current edition of its newsletter, the Iowa Greyhound Association (IGA) published a rambling, full-page diatribe urging greyhound adopters to support the continuation of the industry. This is not surprising, because the IGA represents greyhound breeders. They have a direct financial interest in defeating the common sense legislation now pending in the Hawkeye State, which would both end greyhound racing and eliminate millions in annual subsidies dog racing supporters now receive.

What is shocking, however, is the means that greyhound breeders are using to try to preserve their multi-million dollar subsidy. To start with, the IGA tries to use the personal connection greyhound adopters have with the dogs they have rescued to perpetuate the cruelty of greyhound racing:

"Look at your pet. Now look ahead to the future and your current pet is gone. You want another greyhound. But all there are to choose from are AKC registered greyhounds and they are like $2,000 for a puppy! They still have some racing in Ireland and Australia, but whoa ... JetPets is expensive."

I suppose if this were a television drama, we would be seeing dark storm clouds and listening to dramatic music just about now. Continuing with the IGA sales pitch:

"You also loved to buy your heart hound collars for the holidays, a nice bed and a comfy coat. You loved buying all things greyhound. You loved the discussion groups, even though the fighting got to you once in a while. And shopping at Dewey Beach! That was the greatest vacation ... ever. Now it is all over. The tracks are gone ... the farms are gone. All the adoption groups are gone."

After all this emotional nonsense, the IGA then tries to close the deal:

"This is reality. This IS the way it will be if YOU make bad choices. Don't be a sheep."

Finally, the IGA makes the most shocking statement of all:

"Do not adopt from groups who are against the industry."

For decades, greyhound breeders have used these dogs for their own personal financial gain. For most of the industry's existence, they simply killed the dogs when they were no longer profitable. In recent years they have started to pawn dogs off on adoption groups, allowing the dogs to find homes and have a second life. This is certainly an improvement, but does not address the underlying problems in the industry, including the cruel housing system the industry uses and the large number of dogs that are injured while racing.

Now, the same greyhound breeders who have asked adoption groups to clean up after them want the rescue community to be thankful. Even worse, they want to cut off adoptions by any group that has the courage to speak up for the dogs. This manipulative behavior should not come as a surprise, but is shocking nonetheless. This political tactic could directly result in greyhounds not being adopted, an outcome that is apparently not important to the IGA.

Dog racing is cruel and inhumane, and is going to end. When it does, thousands of greyhounds will no longer endure lives of confinement and suffer serious injuries. Further, I have a feeling that many of the people who currently rescue greyhounds are looking forward to the day when they no longer have to clean up after irresponsible greyhound breeders. I'm sure they have many other important things in their life they would like to do, and other noble causes to pursue.

It's also important to note that the greyhound breed has existed for hundreds, if not thousands of years, long before the dog racing industry. The notion that greyhounds are dependent on this cruel industry is pure nonsense.

The end of greyhound racing will be a victory for everyone who cares about dogs. Beneath their manipulative tactics, even the greyhound breeders know this. That is why I am confident their political tricks will not work. In the end, the greyhounds will overcome.

Hundreds of Greyhounds Injured at the Canidrome Racetrack in Macau

Over the last few months, GREY2K USA has been working with a coalition of animal protection groups from all over the world in an effort to help the greyhounds currently racing at the Canidrome track in Macau.

For the most part, our campaign has focused on the fact that the Canidrome has no adoption program, and all the dogs who race at the track are eventually killed. To address this problem, we have asked track management to let us rescue a single dog, named Brooklyn. If we are able to send Brooklyn home to Australia, his adoption can be a test case and help us determine if all the Canidrome greyhounds can be saved.

It turns out, however, that the death of young greyhounds is only one of the humane problems in Macau. Sadly, hundreds of greyhounds also suffer serious injuries at the facility.

Our research team, led by GREY2K USA Research Director Amelia Cook, closely examined the track's own records between October and December 2011. The results of our analysis were shocking:

• During a ten week period, 302 greyhounds were reportedly injured. This amounts to nearly half of all greyhounds racing at the track.

• The most commonly reported injuries were cuts, tears and infections. Other reported injuries included sprains, broken legs, and an amputation.

• Fifty-four greyhounds were "recommended retired," likely meaning that they were euthanized.
  

• Fifty-two greyhounds suffered multiple injuries.

The records also tell sad stories of individual greyhounds who suffered at the Canidrome. For example, a two-year-old black greyhound named Grove Enforcer suffered shoulder muscle myositis and wrist sprains on November 14, 2011. Only four weeks later, she suffered a broken leg and was recommended to “retire permanently."

Our analysis also provides new information about the general population of greyhounds now racing in Macau. For the first time, we know that 93% of the greyhounds are less than five years old, most of the dogs are female, and most of the greyhounds have black as their primary coat color.

This new data is being widely reported, and covered by news organizations like the South China Morning Post and the Macau Daily Times. We are grateful for these reports, and are hopeful that this new information will lead to positive changes at the Canidrome.

However, time is running short. If the track continues with these destructive policies, the Macau government should intervene. There have already been discussions about removing the track's slot machines, and that might be a good way to get the attention of track management. If the Canidrome managers are not going to be good corporate citizens, they should pay a heavy price for their failure.