Victory for Dogs! Arizona One Step Away From Greyhound Racing Ban

Greyhound dog racing is on its last lap in the United States. Few people are taking an interest in the “sport” and the industry is all but facing collapse as public awareness of cruel and inhumane practices involved in dog racing increases and other forms of gambling become more accessible. In fact, only six states still have active dog tracks, and that number is about to go down to five.

In the latest blow to this barbaric industry, the state of Arizona’s Senate Finance Committee unanimously agreed to make the practice illegal at the end of 2016, pending the approval from the Senate, which its members are reportedly anxious to pass.  If it passes, it would leave horse racing as the only live sport in the state. According to news reports, even the last remaining track’s owners are willing to Support the measure, signaling good news for Greyhounds.

In the world of Greyhound racing, where dogs are too often abused and injured, the impending end of this cruel sport is a true victory. Racing Greyhounds commonly suffer from broken legs, head trauma, electrocution, and broken backs. This is especially good news for the dogs at Arizona’s Tucson Greyhound Park, the only track still in business in the state. According to Grey 2K USA, there were 819 greyhound injuries reported at Tucson Greyhound Park reported in 2008, 2009 and from June 2013 through July 2015. Just earlier this month, the park was under investigation for its treatment of their “athletes” after several incidents of fatal illnesses. Investigators found the dogs to be kept in tiny cages with their mouths muzzled nearly all the time.

With the looking passage of this legislation, it is clear that this cruel “sport” will soon be history.

To learn more about Greyhound racing in your state, click here. Want to help make a difference for racing dogs? Check out Grey 2K USA and keep up to date on their latest victories on their Facebook page.

Image source: Rainer Hungershausen/Flickr