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Greyhounds in Iowa will no longer be forced to race as the Iowa Greyhound Park, the state’s last racetrack, permanently closes. The Humane Society and Animal rights activists are applauding this huge win for greyhounds.

Iowa Greyhound Park is officially closed after 37 years. The park has been planning to close the park because of a shortage of greyhounds and a decline in the racing industry.

Dog racing is illegal in 42 states. Arkansas is phasing out its last racetrack, Southland Greyhound Park, and is set to close before the end of this year. At the start of 2023, there will only be two tracks still in operation in the United States, both in West Virginia.

These poor greyhounds are confined to cages for 20-23 hours a day and are not allowed to walk or play in most cases, The Humane Society reported. The cages are often not big enough for the dogs to stand up, and many do not have heat or air conditioning. These social animals are forced to spend most of their time alone and do not receive adequate medical care at the race tracks. The dogs are often given steroids or drugs such as cocaine to improve performance, and many trainers have been caught with dogs who test positive for drugs.

Source: Animals Australia/Youtube

Although these races are not as popular now as the public has become aware of how cruel the animals are treated, varying forms of dog racing, commercial and non-commercial, regulated and non-regulated, still exist in several countries, according to Grey2K.

Grey2K is an organization working to end Greyhound racing. It’s important to educate yourself about the cruel practices of dog racing. Check out Grey2K to stay informed and Support their efforts to pass legislation to end this cruel sport once and for all.

With so many tracks closing in the last years, there are so many retired greyhounds available for adoption and looking for their forever homes. Adopt a greyhound if you can, and keep speaking out and demanding an end to these races!

Check out Greyhound Racing is Anything but Fun for the Dogs and 4 Facts About the Lives of Greyhounds in the Racing Industry.

While you’re at it, sign this petition to end greyhound racing worldwide!

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