The Great Bend Towards Justice

Nearly two centuries ago, abolitionist Theodore Parker gave voice to the idea that the arc of the moral universe bends towards justice. Although I believe this to be true, change can also be disappointingly slow.

Saving Greys has been silent for several months, because I have been deeply engaged in fights to help greyhounds in several states. The legislative season is almost over, and the greyhound protection community did win important victories, including a $2 million reduction in dog race subsidies in West Virginia.

At the same time, I'm deeply disappointed by the work that has been left undone. Although the Florida Senate unanimously passed a greyhound injury reporting law, the House never followed suit. Greyhound decoupling passed three Florida committees, but never advanced to the floor of either chamber. Meanwhile, Lawmakers in Oregon and Connecticut neglected to vote on proposals to outlaw dog racing.

Of course, not ever year can be like 2014, when we helped pass multiple major pieces of legislation to help greyhounds and end dog racing. Still, it's easy to be frustrated when we see greyhound continue to suffer while change is delayed.

It's important to keep in mind that commercial greyhound racing has existed for more than eight decades. After its introduction in Florida in 1931, it took the industry a full sixty years to peak. At its high point, dog racing was legal and operational in nineteen states, and roughly $3.5 billion was bet on greyhound races nationwide.

Today, the industry has shrunk to only 21 tracks in seven states. In the two decades between 1991 and 2012, the most recent year we have data for, gambling on greyhound racing fell by 81%. Similarly, since 2012 betting on dog races in Florida, where twelve tracks are located, declined by a further 6.5%.

It's also very notable that the movement to end greyhound racing has gone global. There are now active campaigns to reform or end greyhound racing in Great Britain, Australia, Macau and New Zealand. Just last week John Kaye, Greens Member of the New South Wales Parliament, introduced the first ever bill to outlaw dog racing Down Under. He has launched an informative web page and petition, and deserves our support.

Every year, we grow stronger while the commercial greyhound racing industry grows weaker. GREY2K USA now has more than 100,000 supporters worldwide. We have an expanding team of researchers and advocates, and have established key relationships with allies like the ASPCA, Humane Society of the United States, League Against Cruel Sports and Animals Australia.

Meanwhile, dog race promoters have added nothing substantive to the debate. Their cynical strategy of personal attacks has failed, and their cruel industry is slowly slipping away one day at a time.

The moral arc of the universe does bend towards justice, and we are winning the fight to end greyhound racing. Although it pains us to see the daily suffering of racing dogs, we must be patient and stay the course.

A High Water Mark for Greyhound Advocacy in Florida

Penrose Jake died after racing at Orange Park in August 2013

Last Friday, the Florida House of Representatives adjourned without voting on a proposal to require greyhound injury reporting. The measure, Senate Bill 742, had passed the Senate on a unanimous 40-0 vote earlier in the day. When the House neglected to consider this humane bill, it died. A few weeks earlier, a greyhound decoupling proposal had failed due to a legislative technicality.

I am heartbroken over the defeat of these common sense proposals, which would have saved the lives of countless greyhounds. Nonetheless, I know that for the greyhound advocacy community our best days are ahead of us. Let me explain.

The Sunshine State is home to a majority of all remaining dog tracks in the United States. At these twelve facilities a greyhound dies every three days, and since May 31 of last year at least 107 racing dogs have died. We also know that Florida tracks are losing tens of millions each year on greyhound racing, and are only continuing this archaic practice because they are required to do so by law.

In response to this problem, a real movement has emerged for the dogs. Over the past year, a coalition of humane minded citizens and organizations has fought for greyhound decoupling and injury reporting in Florida. Lawmakers, newspaper editorial boards, columnists, and grassroots citizens have all spoken up. Together, they have given the greyhounds an unprecedented voice. This chorus of support represents all aspects of civic life: conservatives, progressives, and everyone in between.

State lawmakers and elected officials who fought for the dogs include Senate President Don Gaetz, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Senator Eleanor Sobel, Senator Maria Sachs, Senator Garrett Richter, Representative Jared Moskowitz, Representative Matt Gaetz, Representative John Wood, Representative Ray Pilon and Representative Dana Young. These leaders may diverge on other issues, but they all agree that greyhounds deserve to be protected. Perhaps the most outspoken elected official for greyhounds is Representative Matt Gaetz, who rightly called greyhound racing "barbaric," and added:

"This is an activity that very few people watch, even fewer people bet on ... that erodes our collective humanity."

Newspaper editorial boards from across the state also stood up for the dogs, including the Sun-Sentinel, Tampa Bay Times, Orlando Sentinel, Panama City News Herald, Daytona Beach News-Journal, Jacksonville Times-Union, Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Lakeland Ledger, Ocala Star-Banner and Bradenton Herald. On January 31, the Herald-Tribune wrote:

"Requiring facilities to offer racing that the public no longer supports doesn't make sense. Eliminating the requirement won't hurt anyone, but it will help greyhounds avoid a fate they don't deserve."

The greyhounds were also supported by opinion leaders and columnists from across Florida, including Doug Lyons, Tom Lyons, Sue Carlton, Gary Stein and Mark Lane. Our humane campaign was summarized well by Sue Carlton only days before the end of the legislative session, when she wrote:

"Remember how we did things before we knew better? ... for at least another year, the dogs will be run as before, even though the world has moved forward, even though we have options, even though by now we should be better than this."

Finally, a vast grassroots network called for change. This included thousands of people from all over the state, and notable community leaders Vicky Gaetz, Ann Church and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Kate MacFall and Wayne Pacelle from The Humane Society of the United States, Marc Reichelderfer, Greyhound Rescue and Adoptions of Tampa Bay, Greyhound Adoptions of Florida, the National Greyhound Adoption Program, Walter Sickert and the Army of Broken Toys, the Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County, the Florida Association of Animal Welfare Organizations, the Florida Animal Control Association, SPCA Tampa Bay, Humane Society Naples, Jacksonville Humane Society, Palm Beach Animal Care and Control, First Coast No More Homeless Pets, Alaqua Animal Refuge, the Animal Rights Foundation of Florida, the Student Animal Legal Defense Fund, Retired Greyhounds as Pets, and Cat Depot. Throughout the session Vicky Gaetz tirelessly fought for the dogs, and on April 8 told the Miami Herald why she was working so hard:

"In a civil society, it doesn't seem right to have these noble animals be caged and forced to race when they don't have to be."

Whitney lives with a loving family in Kansas

Even anti-gambling group No Casinos, which has reservations about greyhound decoupling, spoke out for the greyhounds:

"We agree greyhound racing should end. Let's use gambling tax $ to buy back greyhound track permits."

Our coalition grew into a true army of compassion, and our hard work resulted in the unanimous passage of injury reporting in the Senate. This was a high water mark for greyhound advocacy in Florida, and a glimpse into what the future holds on this issue. In the end, greyhound decoupling and injury reporting failed because of the influence of special interests and powerful lobbyists, and due to industry infighting. But our movement is not going away. We will be back, and next time our coalition of compassion will not be denied.

State Lawmakers Are Going to the Dogs

Collin lives with an adopted family in Alabama.

We have not yet reached the halfway point in the 2014 state legislative season, and greyhound advocates have already won several important victories.

• In Colorado, the state legislature passed a prohibition on commercial dog racing. This makes Colorado the 39th state to outlaw greyhound racing.

• In West Virginia, it is likely that greyhound racing subsidies will be permanently cut by 10%.

• In Iowa, a House committee has approved a bill to end greyhound racing. The measure is now awaiting a vote by the full House of Representatives.

• In Florida, a Senate Committee has included a greyhound injury reporting requirement, along with a reduction of dog racing, in the initial draft of their comprehensive Gaming bill.

There is also growing momentum in Florida for greyhound decoupling, which would significantly reduce greyhound racing in the Sunshine state and help thousands of dogs. Right now, a racing greyhound dies in Florida every three days.

Each of these victories represents a step forward for greyhound advocates. Also, these advances come on the heels of a very productive 2013 legislative season, when greyhound protection laws passed in four states.

Not too long ago, greyhound breeders used the legislative process as a means of propping up and continuing their cruel business. But the tide has turned, and this same process is now being utilized by the humane community to help greyhounds and end dog racing. Without a doubt, the legislative process has gone to the dogs.

Report: Florida Tracks Lost $35 Million on Dog Racing

Shiloh lives with an adopted family in Connecticut

Yesterday, a gambling impact study was released by the Florida legislature as part of an ongoing look at new possible laws. The study was conducted by Spectrum Gaming Group, and will be followed by the release of additional information in October.

In part, the study examined the economic viability of greyhound racing in Florida. Although it is common knowledge that dog racing is a dying industry, these new findings give the clearest picture yet of how dire the situation has become for greyhound race promoters.

The report first addresses the decline of greyhound racing by pointing out that between 1990 and 2012, the total amount gambled at Florida dog tracks declined by 67%. Similarly, between 1985 and 2012, state revenue from greyhound racing dropped by a staggering 99%.

The study also indicates that virtually all of Florida's dog tracks are losing money on greyhound racing:

"It is clear that pari-mutuel operations at greyhound tracks are loss leaders as the tracks sustained a combined operating loss from wagering on greyhounds of $35 million. Only three tracks made a profit."

Finally, the report quotes two racetrack executives who state that greyhound racing is no longer economically viable. Michael Glenn, general manager of Palm Beach Kennel Club told Spectrum that they would shut down their dog track if they could, and added:

"It is a dying sport ... Decoupling will help us in the short run as we would run fewer races which, in turn, will lower our operating costs. Our simulcast revenue will also increase, but there just are not enough folks out there to come to the track and wager on these races. There is not any interest.”

I couldn't have said it better myself. Florida's greyhound tracks have already become profitable poker rooms that happen to have dogs running around in circles while no on watches. The only question left is how many dogs must suffer before lawmakers change this flawed policy.

A Path Forward for Florida's Greyhounds

Molly was rescued by GREY2K USA Board Member Kathy Pelton

Earlier this week, I gave a presentation on greyhound racing to the Florida Senate Committee on Gaming. In my testimony I gave lawmakers information on the decline of dog racing, and evidence of humane problems in the industry. I also urged them to consider three recommendations to help greyhounds: the passage of greyhound decoupling, adoption of a greyhound injury reporting law, and an end to dog race subsidies.

We have fought for these issues for many years in the Sunshine State, and are closer than ever to seeing change. Still, we have a lot of work left to do. Legislative leaders have decided to undertake a full study of gambling in the state, including greyhound racing. To accomplish this, they have appointed the Senate Committee on Gaming and the House Select Committee on Gaming.  Together, these two panels will hold hearings throughout the state, both during and after the 2013 legislative session. It is expected they will then make recommendations to the full legislature in early 2014.

Although I'm disappointed that humane changes may not be passed until next year, GREY2K USA is completely focused on working with these committees and making sure the greyhounds have a voice. To succeed, we will need your support. In the coming months we will let you know how you can help, and will keep you updated as this process moves forward.

There is no doubt in my mind that we will, by working together, eventually ensure that Florida's greyhounds get the help they deserve. We will pass greyhound decoupling, we will pass an injury reporting law, and we will end the cruelty of dog racing completely. Throughout this effort, we must maintain a fierce sense of urgency while also recognizing that the changes we are fighting for depend in part on actions that are out of our control. We must never lose sight of our ultimate goal, or allow temporary delays to prevent us from continuing to work for the dogs. At GREY2K USA, we work hard every single day, and will not stop until all of Florida's greyhounds are helped.

Nearly Two Hundred Greyhounds Injured in Iowa, Debate on Decoupling Resumes

Harley raced at Dubuque Greyhound Park

The debate over greyhound decoupling in Iowa has resumed, and it couldn't come at a better time for the dogs.

On Sunday, the Des Moines Register reported the results of a GREY2K USA analysis of state greyhound injury reports. In total, 175 greyhound injuries were reported at Iowa dog tracks between January 2011 and July 2012. Most of these injuries involved broken legs, and other reported injuries included sprains, tears, a fractured skull and a broken neck. During the same time period, 24 greyhounds were euthanized. The Des Moines Register story was picked up the Associated Press, and is being reported all over the country.

In part, these greyhound injuries are a consequence of legislative inaction. As I told the Register, there isn't going to be a miraculous revival of dog racing. The only question now is how many dogs will suffer and die before lawmakers do the right thing.

In each of the last three years, legislation has been introduced that would allow Mystique Casino and Horseshoe Council Bluffs to stop dog racing. Under current law these two casinos must hold live greyhound races to stay open, and must also subsidize greyhound breeders with millions in casino profits. As a result of this bad public policy, greyhound racing is being artificially propped up even though interest in the races continues to decline.

I'm confident that these greyhound decoupling bills will pass when they were given a fair vote in the state legislature. Unfortunately that hasn't happened, and greyhound breeders have given lawmakers hundreds of thousands of dollars in campaign contributions while fighting to protect their subsidies.

Thankfully, there is reason to be optimistic about the upcoming session. This morning, Council Bluffs Mayor Tom Hanafan told the Daily Nonpareil newspaper that he would support repurposing the dog track at Horseshoe Council Bluffs. Meanwhile, State Representative Mark Brandenberg told the newspaper that he not only supported the proposal, but he believed it will create jobs:

"If we could develop that, there could be more jobs. It might be different kinds of jobs, but it would help the economy."

Finally, it's worth noting that dog race promoters used misleading arguments when they were asked to comment on greyhound injuries in the state. When he was contacted by the Register, lobbyist Jim Quilty claimed that the greyhound injury rate is lower than the injury rate for high school athletes. This absurd comparison was discredited in 2008 by leading expert Dr. Dawn Comstock. Referring to the misuse of one of her studies, Dr. Comstock was blunt in her assessment of this claim:

"It's quite a bit of a misrepresentation."

Dr. Comstock also questioned the basic premise of comparing human athlete injuries to greyhound injuries, given their physiological differences.

Meanwhile, greyhound breeder Beverly Yates told the Register that many of the dogs that suffer injuries, including broken legs, eventually return to racing. This claim is simply false. According to two databases used by gamblers, nearly 80% of the greyhounds that were injured in Iowa between January 2011 and July 2012 never raced again.

Greyhound breeders use false arguments because they can't debate on the facts. They cannot deny that greyhound racing is no longer viable, or that a large number of dogs suffer broken legs and other injuries. Instead, all they can do is make another campaign contribution and hope that their subsidies continue.

Even though it will not come soon enough to help the dogs who have already suffered, I'm confident that Iowa lawmakers will soon make a humane choice and allow greyhound racing to end. If they don't, we will eventually hear about the greyhounds who died in 2013 because of a bad law.

Meet GREY2K USA Board Member Kathy Pelton

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.

Kathy Pelton and rescued friend Molly

Greyhound racing has largely become a regional phenomenon in the United States. In fact, most of the dog tracks that still exist are in just one state, Florida. No one knows this problem better, or is more committed to change in the Sunshine State, than GREY2K USA Board Member Kathy Pelton.

Kathy first became an advocate in 2002 after adopting a greyhound named Eddy. Eddy was a particularly clever greyhound who was able to open doors. He was protective of Kathy, and they had a special bond until he passed at the age of ten. Today, she lives in South Florida with her husband Ken and another rescued greyhound named Molly.

Kathy is a real force when it comes to educating the public about the problems with dog racing, and regularly holds educational tabling events. She is also politically engaged, and helps lead GREY2K USA's grassroots lobbying efforts in Florida.

Kathy told me that she is particularly concerned about the injuries greyhound suffer in the racing industry. She points out that these injuries, which are too often fatal, cannot be denied by even the most ardent dog race promoters.

Looking forward, Kathy is hopeful that Florida lawmakers will pass greyhound decoupling legislation when they meet again early next year. To her, the passage of this important bill would be the start of a new chapter for Florida's greyhounds.

At GREY2K USA, our passion for greyhound welfare is equaled only by our determination to get the job done. Kathy Pelton is an powerful example of this determination, and we are fortunate to have her on our Board of Directors.

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.

Greyhound Advocates Win Victories in Florida Primary

State Representative Mark Pafford visits with GREY2K USA

Greyhound advocates won big victories in the Florida primary last night, with nearly two dozen greyhound friendly candidates advancing to the general election. Overall, 88% of all candidates endorsed by GREY2K USA advanced including 70% (7 out of 10) of contested races. There is still one race too close to call, with greyhound ally Randy Johnson trailing by less than 30 votes.

Meanwhile, greyhound breeders had a tough night. Most notably, candidate Rachel Burgin lost by a big margin to former State Senate President Tom Lee. Two years ago Burgin voted against greyhound decoupling as a member of the State House of Representatives, while Lee is a former GREY2K USA Leadership Award recipient.

Greyhound breeder lobbyist Jack Cory campaigned hard for Burgin, and even mailed an outrageous smear ad to voters in the district attacking Senator Lee's family. This smear was so out of bounds that one of the groups that donated to Jack Cory's Political Action Committee told the Tampa Bay Times that they wanted their money back. The mailing also resulted in a formal complaint to the Florida Elections Commission, which in part claimed that the mailing was paid for by payments to a "vendor that appears to be fictitious."

These primary night victories are wonderful news for greyhound advocates. Greyhound protection is a mainstream issue, and now has more support in the Florida legislature than ever before. With that in mind, I am hopeful that we will see significant legislative progress for the dogs in the years ahead.

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.

Seven Greyhound Wishes for the New Year

Last January, I wrote about my seven wishes for the greyhounds in 2011. Some of these wishes came true, while others did not. Nonetheless, there's no doubt that greyhound protection advocates had a great year.

I'm hoping 2012 will be an even better year for the greyhounds. With that in mind, let's get to my seven wishes for the greyhounds in 2012.

1. Greyhound decoupling bills in Florida, Arizona and Iowa finally cross the finish line.

The big story of 2011 was the emergence of greyhound decoupling as a legislative issue. In Florida, a greyhound decoupling bill passed both the House and Senate by large margins and nearly became law. Similarly, the Arizona House overwhelmingly supported greyhound decoupling before the measure died in the Senate. In Iowa, a decoupling bill was introduced for the second consecutive year and was debated throughout the session.

In 2012, state lawmakers should finally pass these humane measures. They are common sense bills that will help thousands of greyhounds.

2. Interest in greyhound racing continues to decline, causing fewer dogs to suffer.

Greyhound racing continued to decline in 2011, a trend that will hopefully continue. Without question, the industry is at its lowest point. For example:

• The number of greyhounds registered to race continues to decrease. For the first ten months of 2011, the number of registered greyhounds declined by 6%, when compared to the first ten months of 2010.

• Gambling at dog tracks is still declining. For the first five months of the fiscal year, the total amount gambled on pari-mutuel wagering at Florida dog tracks is down 3% when compared to the same months a year ago. When you look at gambling on live greyhound racing, the decrease is even more stark. During the same time period, gambling on live greyhound racing in Florida is down by 6%. Also, for the first time more money is now gambled on card games at Florida dog tracks than on live greyhound racing.

• At the National Greyhound Association, the primary promoter of this cruel industry, membership continues to drop. Just in the past year it has declined by 12%, and now stands at only 1,454 nationwide. This number is telling. Despite the inflated claims made by dog track supporters, greyhound racing has very little, if any, economic impact. In fact, a recent study indicated that dog racing actually has a negative impact on state revenues.

3. Even more greyhounds are adopted and fewer dogs are euthanized.

As tracks close across the country, fewer greyhounds are bred into the racing system and fewer dogs need homes. That is a positive trend, and makes it easier for non-profit adoption groups to help these wonderful dogs.

Every greyhound that is adopted is a dog that is not euthanized, something we should all be grateful for.

4. Brooklyn the greyhound is rescued, starting a new chapter at the Canidrome in Macau.

Nearly two months have passed since we wrote to the Canidrome management, asking for the release of Brooklyn the greyhound. Even though the track has not yet formally responded, I remain hopeful that in the end Brooklyn will be saved.

Of course, this story is not just about Brooklyn. It is about all the greyhounds who are dying at the Canidrome. It is time for all of these dogs to be given a life after racing, a life they truly deserve.

5. Gulf Greyhound Park in Texas closes permanently.

At the last remaining dog track in Texas, hundreds of greyhounds endure lives of confinement and suffer serious injuries. Since 2008, more than 1,300 greyhound injuries have been reported at the track, including dogs that suffered broken legs, puncture wounds, paralysis and a fractured skull. During the same period, 49 greyhounds died or were euthanized.

According to published reports greyhound racing is dying in the Lone Star state, as it is everywhere else. The end of dog racing at Gulf couldn't come fast enough for the dogs, who are being injured on a daily basis.

6. Earl Ray Tomblin fails to win a full term as West Virginia Governor.

In West Virginia, greyhound racing only exists today because the law requires that dog races be subsidized with millions in casino gambling profits. This requirement makes little sense, and should end.

It's a sure bet, however, that this wrongheaded policy will continue as long as Earl Ray Tomblin serves as Governor. Because Tomblin's mother and brother are prominent greyhound breeders, he will undoubtedly continue to support this cruel industry. It would be good for greyhounds, and good for the state, if he was denied a full term as West Virginia Governor next November.

7. Greyhound advocacy continues to grow as a global movement.

All over the world, people are speaking out for greyhounds in new ways. Over the last year, we have seen increasing opposition to greyhound racing in China, the United Kingdom, Australia, India and many other countries. My hope is that this trend will continue, until there is a worldwide chorus of humane voices calling for dog racing to end.

My Top Ten Greyhound Stories for 2011

A lot has happened in the greyhound world over the last year. Greyhound protection advocates have won powerful victories, but also suffered heartbreaking defeats.

Below, you will find my top ten list of greyhound stories for 2011.

10. Pennsylvania lawmakers vote to prohibit greyhound simulcasting.

In July, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett signed House Bill 67 into law, which prohibited greyhound simulcast gambling in the state. The measure was unanimously approved by lawmakers, and was supported by Citizens Against Greyhound Racing.

9. Skechers and Mark Cuban film a Super Bowl ad at Tucson Greyhound Park.

Skechers raised the ire of humane minded citizens in November when they partnered with Mark Cuban to film a Super Bowl advertisement at Tucson Greyhound Park. A Skechers executive later backpedaled, telling GREY2K USA that "we don't even know if that footage we (sic) ever appear in a commercial." Despite this retreat, the company has not yet pledged to pull the ad.

8. More evidence is uncovered of cruelty and neglect at Tucson Greyhound Park.

Tucson Greyhound Park is one of the most notorious dog tracks in the world, and their poor reputation was repeatedly reinforced in 2011.

Most notably, the terrible confinement greyhounds endure at Tucson was again highlighted when we received photographs that were taken by a Pima County investigator. These photographs documented kennel conditions that are nearly identical to what our investigators found in 2010. Hundreds of greyhounds live in small cages at the track, in dark warehouse style kennels. Most of the dogs are muzzled in their cages.

In addition to this evidence of greyhound confinement, several documented cases of neglect occurred at Tucson Greyhound Park in 2011. In June, a kennel inspection revealed poor conditions. According to the report:

"Floors filthy (urine & feces)/refridgerator covered inside and out with blood (from meat)"

The kennel also "could not produce a log" indicating the ultimate fate of greyhounds that had raced for the kennel. Finally, the trainer responsible for the dogs, Willard J. Eyler, refused to sign the inspection report.

In September, a greyhound trainer was fined $1,000 by the state for "failing to turn out and care for the greyhounds" in the kennel he worked in. According to state records, the dogs were not let out of their cages to relieve themselves for at least eight hours before a state investigator discovered the problem. A few days later, another trainer was fined $100 after he brought four greyhounds to race with an "excessive amount of fleas."

As long as Tucson Greyhound Park remains open, dogs will suffer and die at this facility.

7. West Virginia voters narrowly elect dog racing supporter Earl Ray Tomblin.

In November, dog racing supporter Earl Ray Tomblin defeated Bill Maloney by less than 3% to become West Virginia's next Governor. Greyhound racing became an issue in the campaign, when Maloney pledged to end millions of dollars in state subsidies greyhound breeders now receive.

Because this was a special election the seat is up again at the end of this year, and it appears likely that we will see another Tomblin versus Maloney race.

6. Greyhound advocacy blossoms all over the globe.

Across the world, more advocates fought for greyhound protection in 2011 than ever before. In India, Beauty Without Cruelty is continuing to fight the legalization of dog racing in Punjab. Their effort this year included a petition representing more than four million individuals.

Other groups speaking up for greyhounds include Animals Australia, Animals Asia, Greytexploitations and the Greyhound Protection League of New Zealand.

In August, greyhound protection advocates won a major victory when a special commission recommended against legalizing greyhound racing in South Africa. GREY2K USA President Christine Dorchak had previously met with representatives of the commission and provided input, and we were gratified when they made the humane choice.

5. The world waits for the Canidrome's decision in the Rescue Brooklyn campaign.

Every year, hundreds of greyhounds are exported from Australia to the Canidrome in Macau, where they will eventually die after racing at the track. This ongoing tragedy led GREY2K USA to ask for the release of a single dog, named Brooklyn. If the track allows it, we intend to send Brooklyn back home to Australia where he can be adopted out.

The attempt to Rescue Brooklyn is a test case, to see if all the Canidrome dogs can be helped. So far, the track has not answered our request. The entire world is watching to see how it responds.

4. Thousands of greyhound injuries are documented in West Virginia and Texas.

In February, the Charleston Daily Mail reported that more than 3,000 greyhound injuries have been reported at Tri-State racetrack since 2005. This story was based on research from GREY2K USA, and led to a subsequent pro-greyhound editorial by the Daily Mail Editorial Board. In part, the editorial read:

It's repugnant that injuries are the part of the nature of the sport. Greyhounds are fast but fragile, and races involve much bumping ... Why does the state continue to allow such a gruesome sport?

Meanwhile, in October the Houston Chronicle reported on greyhound injuries at Gulf Greyhound Park. Their front-page story cited GREY2K USA research which shows that more than 1,300 greyhound injuries have been reported at Gulf since 2008. During the same period, 49 greyhounds died or were euthanized at the track.

3. Legislative bills to decouple greyhound racing are considered in three states.

In Florida, a bill to decouple greyhound racing from other forms of gambling passed by large margins in both the House and Senate, but failed on the last day of session when the two chambers could not agree on relatively minor differences. The Florida decoupling bill would have helped thousands of greyhounds, and started the process of ending dog racing in the Sunshine state.

Although the measure ultimately did not become law, greyhound protection advocates won the substantive debate and educated lawmakers about the dog racing industry. Similar proposals were also considered in Iowa and Arizona.

I expect greyhound decoupling to be considered again in all three of these states in 2012, and am optimistic that these proposals will become law.

2. GREY2K USA releases groundbreaking report on Greyhound Racing in Florida.

In early December, GREY2K USA released the first-ever report on greyhound racing in Florida. The report was made possible in part by a grant from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and provides a look inside Florida's thirteen dog tracks.

Across the state, as many as 8,000 greyhounds endure lives of terrible confinement and suffer serious injuries. Also, since 2004 there have been at least nine severe cases of neglect at Florida dog tracks and associated kennel compounds.

The public now has more information about greyhound racing in Florida than ever before, something that should result in positive action for the dogs.

1. Greyhound trainer pleads guilty to 39 cruelty counts, receives prison sentence.

Finally, my top greyhound story for 2011 occurred in October when greyhound trainer Ronald Williams plead guilty to 39 counts of animal cruelty. He had been arrested the previous year last year after law enforcement authorities discovered dozens of dead greyhounds in his kennel at Ebro Greyhound Park. According to state officials, the dogs died from starvation, dehydration, or asphyxia.

Williams was sentenced to five years in prison for each charge, with the sentences to run concurrently.

Florida Greyhound Tour Enters the Homestretch

I have been on the road for nearly two weeks now, meeting with grassroots activists all across Florida. On Tuesday, I joined GREY2K USA President Christine Dorchak and Ann Church, Senior Director of the ASPCA, at a press conference in Tallahassee. We released a groundbreaking report on greyhound racing in Florida, and met with lawmakers. If you haven't read this report yet, please do so. It is the first document of its kind, and provides a glimpse inside Florida's thirteen dog tracks.

At every stop, I have met dedicated people who are ready to fight for the dogs. One example of this dedication is Cyndi Rennick with Greyhound REscue and Adoptions of Tampa Bay. In addition to her adoption efforts, Cyndi is a GREY2K USA volunteer and is working hard to pass greyhound decoupling. This morning, I received the following message Cyndi sent to other activists about the meeting:

"It was great to see Christine and Carey, and although they must be exhausted, they are hanging tough through this whirlwind Florida tour. The report that they released on Tuesday is beautifully done and represents a lot of hard work on their part. Some of the pictures are difficult to look at, but they need to be there, for those who may not know. The report sheds a bright light on the reality of everyday life for racing greyhounds in Florida. And it's an ugly picture."

Cyndi also wrote about her hopes for the upcoming legislative session:

"I am optimistic that all our hard work this session will be rewarded next year when the decoupling legislation makes it through both houses and is signed in to law! It's going to be a tough road and the greyhound breeders are going to fight dirty, but we are just as determined as they are. Their focus is the money and our focus is the greyhounds. I have to believe that we will prevail. I do it for Bandit, Sweetie Pie, Joe, Dodd and Taylor and all those others who were not lucky enough to make it to someone's sofa. I know that's why you each do what you do as well. I'm proud to be part of such a passionate group of advocates."

Although it has been exhilarating to meet so many amazing activists like Cyndi, I am looking forward to returning home and hugging my greyhound Zoe. As we enter the homestretch, it is the prospect of seeing her that propels me forward.