The Greyhound Protection Act which will phase out dog racing by 2010 in Massachusetts, was voted in by 1.5 million voters in last week’s election. Greyhounds are the dog of choice in this brutal sport. This is a fantastic victory for these dogs. Over 150,000 signatures were signed in a volunteer effort to place this act on the act. Way to go, people of Massachusetts! It is amazing what we the people can do when we work together.
During the 14 month phase-out period, the Committee to Protect Dogs will make sure that any racing dogs ending their careers find loving homes. Unfortunately these dogs can be used in other states to race.
According the Massachusetts SPCA, there are two greyhound racing tracks in their state. In 2001, a law was passed which mandated the reporting of injuries at the tracks. More than 800 dogs have been injured while racing in this state. Nearly 80% of these dogs had broken legs, paralysis, head trauma and cardiac arrest which resulted in death. These dogs are not humanely treated. They are treated more like livestock than like the loving animals they are. And for what- the bottomline is the same as puppymills- money.
This law is supported by the MSPCA, The Humane Society of the US, Grey2K USA , every major animal shelter in Massachusetts, lawmakers, nearly 60 veterinarians from Massachusetts and comunity leaders.
Greyhounds endure lives where they are kept confined for 20 or more hours each day. Their cages are so small they can barely stand or turn around.When they are allowed to leave their small, cramped quarters, it is to race. Check out Grey2kUSA’s website where you can watch a video of greyhounds. See how they live.
Massachusetts has seen a steady decline in greyhound racing since 2002 – yeah! They have two dog tracks with each maintaining a population of over 1,000 greyhound dogs.
The owners of these dogs will have to decide what to do with their dogs. Let’s hope they give their dogs to organizations that do find loving, caring homes for them. Greyhounds that don’t produce are easily disposed- and once again, not humanely. Many are discarded and treated in the worst way if they don’t perform.
When I was the ceremonial signing of the new dog law by Gov. Rendell last month, I met a greyhound named Lucas. Lucas is young, approximately 3 yrs. old. Because he didn’t race fast enough, his owner didn’t have any need for him. Luckily an organization was able to save his life. During the course of Luca’s trip to PA to be fostered, Lucas was in terrible pain and hadn’t been treated. His leg was broken. Lucas has healed and is in great shape now. The woman who was to find him a foster home has now became his “mom”.
I have met quite a few greyhounds and have found them to be very sweet and loving animals. But, greyhounds are not for everyone. To learn more about greyhounds visit the websites I have listed in this entry. Many of the greyhounds will be up for adoption over the course of the next year. If you are interested be prepared to be thoroughly checked out. The organizaitons who adopt these wonderful dogs are very careful to whom they adopt. Greyhound racing dogs run- it’s a fact. You can NEVER leave one off of a leash unless you have an enclosed area in which to do so. I read a story of a man who had a greyhound for years and felt he was safe to leave his dog off the leash. That mistake cost the dog his life. The dog saw a rabbit and ran until he was hit by a vehicle. But please don’t forget, they do make wonderful pets for the right people.
I would like to thank Linda G. for letting me know about this legislation! I see more changes happening for animals. We must let our voices be heard. I said it before and I’ll say it again, we can make a difference working together to help make life better for animals and people!