Renewed calls to ban greyhound racing in New Zealand after deaths

The animal organisation SAFE says there have been three canine deaths in a week.

New Zealand.- The animal rights organisation Save Animals From Exploitation (SAFE) has issued a new call for a ban of greyhound racing following the deaths of three dogs in a week. It comes after Greyhound Racing New Zealand decided to suspend races at Manukau Stadium due to injuries. 

Will Appelbe, head of investigations at SAFE, said: “The injuries witnessed at this particular track are appalling, yet sadly, they are not uncommon within the confines of this industry. Injuries and deaths keep piling up, no matter the track. The Government must recognise the urgency of this issue and intervene decisively.”

He added: “These heartbreaking fatalities serve as stark reminders that the risks to dogs’ lives persist across the country, regardless of the track. The recent surge in injuries and fatalities is a clear indication that the industry’s self-regulation is failing. The only effective measure to protect the health and welfare of greyhounds is to ban the industry altogether.”

In February, the organisation said that since the racing season began last August, there had been 5,051 injuries, 65 fractures, and six deaths. 

Prime minister Christopher Luxon said during the 2023 election campaign that greyhound racing should be banned.