When only a small percentage of participants rely on racing as their main income, it's hard to argue that economic concerns should outweigh animal welfare. Most South Australians would agree: no animal should suffer so that others can enjoy a hobby.

Fewer people are betting on greyhound racing. Fewer dogs are racing. And more people are questioning whether this industry still has a place in our community.

We see them on the track, on the TV at the pub, and we don't question why this poor breed specifically has to suffer for the entertainment of punters.

RSPCA South Australia is calling for a managed phase out of greyhound racing because the evidence is now overwhelming: the welfare issues in this industry are systemic, persistent, and unable to be resolved through reform alone. 

In 2023, confronting footage of greyhound abuse in South Australia sparked widespread concern and prompted the State Government to act. An independent Inquiry was launched to examine Greyhound Racing SA’s operations, culture, and animal welfare standards. 

Greyhounds carry a long list of myths on their narrow shoulders, most of them shaped by the racing industry rather than the dogs themselves. 

It’s a reassuring thought to believe that every racing greyhound is cared for like an elite athlete. That they live in safe, comfortable conditions, with proper nutrition, socialisation, enrichment, and attention to both their physical and mental wellbeing. 

Like most things that sound too good to be true, it leaves out the messy parts. And when we’re talking about living, breathing animals, those “messy parts” matter. 

‘Reform’ and ‘self-regulation’ do not equal protection for dogs. 

Greyhounds carry a long list of myths on their narrow shoulders, most of them shaped by the racing industry rather than the dogs themselves. 

Myth: “Greyhounds love to race”

This is a commonly used statement within the greyhound racing industry and a common misconception from the public.