Mary Allen
Introduction: Greyhound Racing Around the World
Greyhound racing is a popular sport that has been enjoyed by many countries for decades. It involves greyhounds, a breed of dogs, competing in a race around a track, chasing after a mechanical lure that resembles a rabbit. The sport has faced some controversy due to animal welfare concerns and has been banned in some countries, while it still thrives in others. In this article, we will explore which countries permit greyhound racing.
Greyhound Racing in the United States
Greyhound racing in the United States has had a long and storied history, with the first track opening in 1919. However, the sport has faced significant criticism in recent years due to animal welfare concerns, leading to the closure of many tracks in several states. Currently, only six states allow greyhound racing: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Iowa, Texas, and West Virginia.
Australia: A Major Hub for Greyhound Racing
Australia is one of the biggest players in the greyhound racing industry, with a long history of the sport dating back to the 1920s. The country has more than 40 tracks and holds over 20,000 races annually. However, the industry has also faced its fair share of criticism, with reports of animal cruelty and doping scandals. Despite this, greyhound racing remains legal and is a popular pastime in Australia.
Greyhound Racing in the United Kingdom
Greyhound racing in the UK has been around since the 1920s, and at its peak, there were over 70 tracks across the country. However, the industry has been in decline in recent years, with many tracks closing and attendance dropping. Currently, there are only 19 tracks in operation, and the sport is facing growing criticism for animal welfare concerns. Nevertheless, greyhound racing remains legal in the UK.
Ireland: The Home of Greyhound Racing
Ireland is often considered the home of greyhound racing, with the first track opening in Dublin in 1927. The industry has grown significantly since then, with over 20 tracks across the country and a thriving racing scene. However, the sport has faced criticism in recent years, with reports of animal cruelty and doping scandals. Despite this, greyhound racing remains legal in Ireland.
Greyhound Racing in Spain and Portugal
Greyhound racing is legal in both Spain and Portugal, with several tracks operating in both countries. However, the sport is not as popular as it is in other countries, and attendance at races is generally low. The industry has also faced criticism for animal welfare concerns, with some groups calling for a ban on the sport.
New Zealand: A Growing Greyhound Racing Scene
New Zealand has seen a growing greyhound racing scene in recent years, with several tracks opening across the country. The industry has faced some criticism for animal welfare concerns, leading to a review of the sport by the government. However, the review ultimately concluded that greyhound racing should remain legal, and the industry continues to thrive.
Greyhound Racing in Mexico and Latin America
Greyhound racing is legal in Mexico, with several tracks operating across the country. However, the sport is not as popular as it is in other countries, and attendance at races is generally low. In other Latin American countries, such as Brazil and Argentina, greyhound racing is either illegal or not widely practiced.
The State of Greyhound Racing in Canada
Greyhound racing is legal in Canada, but the industry has faced significant decline in recent years. Currently, there are only two tracks in operation, both located in Ontario. The sport has faced criticism for animal welfare concerns, leading to calls for a ban on the sport.
Greyhound Racing in Belgium and the Netherlands
Greyhound racing is legal in both Belgium and the Netherlands, with several tracks operating in both countries. However, the sport is not as popular as it is in other countries, and attendance at races is generally low. The industry has also faced criticism for animal welfare concerns, leading to some calls for a ban on the sport.
Greyhound Racing in China and Macau
Greyhound racing is legal in China and Macau, with several tracks operating in both regions. However, the industry has faced significant criticism for animal welfare concerns, with reports of widespread doping and cruelty. In recent years, there have been efforts to improve animal welfare standards in the industry.
Conclusion: The Global State of Greyhound Racing
In conclusion, greyhound racing remains legal in many countries around the world, despite facing criticism for animal welfare concerns. While the sport is thriving in some countries, such as Australia and Ireland, it is facing significant decline in others, such as the United States and the United Kingdom. Ultimately, the future of greyhound racing remains uncertain, as concerns over animal welfare continue to be a major issue for the industry.