There has a been a renewed effort by the Department of Trade and Industry to investigate the possible legalisation of greyhound racing . This petition is to urge the South African Government to keep the ban in place.The legalisation of dog racing will result in suffering, unspeakable living conditions and often untimely and brutal death for thousands of greyhounds that dont make the grade or become too old to race, further adding to the burden of animal welfare organisations that are already overwhelmed caring for animals in disadvantaged communities.
These dogs will only be seen as expendable commodities to a large part of the population that is already in financial difficulties, families have already been torn apart by gambling, and will be encouraged by the idea that they will profit from breeding and racing greyhounds, adding to an already overburdened welfare department.
Dog racing is made out to be a growing and prosperous industry overseas but there is evidence that dog racing is struggling to survive in developed countries, even though it has been a part of their society for many years, and even these countries cannot guarantee homes for retired dogs.
Considering this and the added burden that would be put on animal welfare organisations, the money that would be needed from the Government to cope with this added burden, it is inexplicable how they can even consider legalising greyhound racing.
