Introduction: The Status of Dog Racing in the United States

Dog racing has a long history in the United States, with the sport gaining popularity in the early 20th century. However, in recent years, the practice of dog racing has come under scrutiny due to concerns about animal welfare. As a result, many states have enacted legislation to either ban or restrict dog racing. This article will provide an overview of the current status of dog racing in various states across the country.

Alabama: The Last State Standing with Active Dog Racing

Alabama is currently the only state in the United States where dog racing is still legal and actively taking place. The state is home to two active dog racing tracks: the Birmingham Race Course and the Mobile Greyhound Park. Despite declining attendance and revenues in recent years, dog racing continues to be a popular form of entertainment in Alabama. However, the future of dog racing in the state remains uncertain, as there have been ongoing debates about the ethics and treatment of racing greyhounds.

Florida: The Historical Hub of Dog Racing

Florida has a long and storied history when it comes to dog racing. For decades, the state was considered the epicenter of the sport in the United States, with numerous dog racing tracks scattered across the state. However, in 2018, Florida voters approved Amendment 13, which effectively banned dog racing in the state. The amendment, which passed with nearly 70% of the vote, called for the phasing out of dog racing by the end of 2020. As a result, the last remaining dog racing tracks in Florida closed their doors, marking the end of an era for the sport in the state.

Arkansas: The State That Recently Banned Dog Racing

In November 2020, Arkansas became the most recent state to ban dog racing. Voters approved Issue 4, a constitutional amendment that prohibited dog racing in the state. Prior to the ban, Southland Casino Racing in West Memphis was the only dog racing track in Arkansas. The decision to ban dog racing was driven by concerns about animal welfare, as well as a decline in public interest and attendance. Despite the ban, the casino at Southland will continue to operate, offering other forms of gambling and entertainment.