New Zealand prohibits greyhound races: an ambitious step for animal welfare!

New Zealand prohibits greyhound races: an ambitious step for animal welfare!

Southland, Neuseeland - The New Zealand government has decided to ban greyhound races from August 1, 2026. This procedure became known after the tragic death of the two-year greyhound "Diamond Roman", which had suffered a serious leg injury in a race on the Ascot Park racetrack in Southland and belongs to the six dogs that lost their lives in this racing season. Minister Winston Peters said that the endless injuries and deaths can no longer be accepted, since over 230 racing dogs died in New Zealand in 2021, and the Situation was only slightly improved in the following years, as the animal welfare organization Safe reported.

The ban is a pressing reaction to the cruel conditions under which many of these animals are kept. Much of the Greyhounds spends more than 20 hours a day in tight cages and often suffer serious injuries during the races. Doping practices are also a major problem; Many animals are supplied with inferior feed and sometimes even treated with drugs like cocaine to increase their performance. In the press, the situation is described as a "breeding ground of exploitation and suffering", since the dogs are often discarded after their racing career and very few get the chance of a loving home.

The challenge of adoption

The ban means that around 3,000 greyhounds, which are usually no longer suitable for races from the age of five, have to look for a new home. Despite the "rehoming program" that aims to offer these dogs a better quality of life, implementation remains a challenge, since many of the animals have never lived in a home environment. While animal welfare organizations are already trying to solve solutions, it remains uncertain whether the previous breeders and owners can meet the necessary nurses and loving circumstances. As reported today.at, there has been little progress in New Zealand in the protection of these animals, which further increases the pressure on the government.

dogs should not be treated like sports equipment. In view of the tragedy about "Diamond Roman" and continuous reports on cruelty to animals, it is necessary that the New Zealand government is quickly acting. Until the ban comes into force, it is crucial to find suitable places for the homeless racing dogs and to ensure that these difficult times finally come to an end for the animals.
Additional reports from NZZ show that the decision to prohibit also gives answers to long -term reforms that are urgently necessary in order to anchor animal welfare more clearly in the racing industry.