Greyhound betting - It's a question of Life or Death

Do you have a big heart? Voice your disapproval of the mistreatment of greyhounds by signing this petition!

OnlineGamblingPal.com is committed to the proper treatment of greyhounds and galgos, and is a proud supporter of Baas Galgo.

As a casino and gambling site we believe commerce is acceptable, but not at any cost. Unfortunately, we have found that many casino sites worldwide promote greyhound racing. We understand the appeal of dog racing. You choose a dog, place your bet and enjoy the added excitement. But what you don’t see is the misery and suffering that goes on behind the scenes. In far too many cases, race dogs are subjected to neglect and abuse, and may even die as a result.

Greyhound betting since 1920

Modern greyhound racing first emerged in Great Britain and the United States around 1920. Initially, it was a sport only pursued by the rich; a law dating back to 1016 forbade ordinary citizens from owning greyhounds, whose speed and amazing eyesight made them perfect hunting animals.

Initially, this took the form of coursing. During the hunt, members of the nobility would bet on which greyhound would catch the prey. As this took place in the open however, it was difficult for spectators to see the action. Therefore, closed racetracks were built, where the dogs would chase an artificial lure called the hare around the track. Subsequent changes to the law permitted regular citizens to keep greyhounds, and the sports popularity grew as a result.

In Spain, greyhound hunting and racing is also a popular pursuit. This can have severe implications for galgos, which can be horribly neglected and abused after the season is over.

Dog racing's elite

Greyhound racing has fascinated people for generations, as most forms of racing do. But while the best driver, cyclist or runner will earn the respect and admiration of the fans of their sport, there is little regard for racing greyhounds or their welfare. Overbreeding, mistreatment and exploitation result in many animals being cynically ‘disposed of’ by unscrupulous owners and breeders once they are deemed to be useless.

Greyhound racing is inhumane

Spectators from all over the world bet on greyhounds and dog races. What many fail to see, however, is the neglect these animals suffer. The dogs are seldom exercised before the race. They are frequently underfed to make them appear energetic before a race, and so they don’t have to race on a full stomach.

Most dog races are run over a distance of 300m to 700m, and injuries picked up on the track are not uncommon (especially on the legs). Visits to the vet are expensive. Instead of proper care, the dogs receive lethal injections.

Animal trade

Billions are spent worldwide breeding greyhounds and running commercial kennels. There is high demand for thoroughbred dogs with strong genes. Overbreeding is commonplace. Young puppies that are not physically fit can literally end up dumped in the rubbish. Of all the dogs bred for racing, half of them will die before reaching 18 months.

Greyhounds are social animals. As pets, their life expectancy can be as high as 13 years; but racing dogs typically only survive for three or four. The dog’s physical condition deteriorates quickly due to the sheer number of races it’s forced to participate in. This isn’t helped by the conditions they’re kept in, and many dogs can be left, muzzled, in cages for up to 23 hours at a time without food or attention.

Betting on greyhound racing must stop

Fortunately, there are people and foundations that fight to protect these animals. Foundations such as Greyhound Rescue, the Greyhounds Protection League, Greyhound Friends, Kerry Greyhound Connection and Greyhound Gap. These groups do great work to improve the living conditions of these animals. They also draw attention to animal abuse and promote the adoption of dogs.

We all enjoy betting and winning, but greyhound racing in any form should be prohibited. Every year, thousands of dogs die worldwide as a result of the sport’s insatiable demand. By going to watch these dog races, we contribute to this terrible industry. Do not bet, because you are betting on an animal’s life!

Would you like to do something about this terrible practice? Donate to a foundation for windhounds and adopt a galgo or greyhound!