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Wales considers phasing out greyhound racing
Greyhound racing has been highlighted in recent months by the ‘Cut the Chase’ campaign organised by the RSPCA.
The Welsh government is launching a consultation on the sport.

Following a petition signed by more than 35,000 people, Lesley Griffiths, minister for rural affairs, has announced that the Welsh government has accepted, or accepted in principle, all but one of the recommendations on greyhound racing made by the Petitions Committee.

The recommendations accepted include phasing out greyhound racing in Wales.

Other recommendations in the report included considering licensing greyhound racing as part of the Animal Welfare Plan, taking action to improve animal welfare throughout the whole life of dogs, including before and after their racing careers, and looking at other sports where animals compete.

The issue of greyhound racing has been highlighted in recent months by the ‘Cut the Chase’ campaign organised by the RSPCA, alongside Hope Rescue, Blue Cross, Dogs Trust and Greyhound Rescue Wales. The campaign argues that greyhound racing has no place in modern society.

Head of the RSPCA, Dr Samantha Gaines, said: “This is a huge moment for dog welfare - with the Welsh Government committing to a consultation on cutting the chase, by phasing out greyhound racing in Wales.

“The RSPCA now looks forward to working closely with the Welsh Government, and Members of the Senedd across the chamber to further highlight why we need a ban - and to ensure Wales takes a lead in the UK by phasing out greyhound racing, and protecting the welfare of the wonderful dogs currently put at risk by this dangerous sport.”

Wales, as well as the other UK nations, is one of only 10 countries in the world where greyhound racing continues in 2023, but unlike in England, no specific statutory regulation or laws exist to govern the sport.

CEO of the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, Mark Bird, responded to the announcement: “We welcome the Minister’s statement, which outlines the importance of regulation of the greyhound racing industry and how this leads to improved welfare standards.

“We will continue to make the case for greyhound racing in Wales to be regulated and subject to the Welfare of Racing Greyhounds Regulations 2010 through registration with the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB). In doing so, we will ensure the welfare of greyhounds is maintained and is strengthened through our own long-term welfare strategy, A Good Life for Every Greyhound.”

A debate on the petition will take place in the Senedd on 8 March.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.