Record number of greyhounds euthanised at races in Ireland last year

The Rising Toll: Greyhound Injuries and Fatalities Reach Record Highs in Ireland

The Irish greyhound racing industry faces mounting scrutiny as newly released statistics reveal a grim picture: 2024 witnessed the highest number of deaths and injuries on record, raising serious concerns about animal welfare within the sport.

Official data shows that a staggering 389 greyhounds suffered injuries at races across ireland in 2024. Tragically, over half of these injured dogs, a total of 202, lost their lives. This grim statistic makes 2024 the deadliest year for greyhounds in Irish racing since records began in 2014.

“Last year’s figures bring to 3,696 the number of greyhounds injured and 1,396 the number killed in racing at Irish tracks as 2014,” the report states. This data paints a stark reality of the physical toll the sport takes on these animals.

Adding to the severity of the situation, the data reveals that 194 of the 389 injured greyhounds were euthanized by track veterinarians. These tragic deaths were a result of a wide range of severe injuries including: spinal injuries, broken bones, and nerve damage. The list of injuries is extensive and chilling: “complete fractures of hind legs, suspected neck fractures, suspected nerve paralysis in shoulders, dislocated hocks, hip injuries, torn ligaments in wrists, ruptured tendons and shattered hocks, among others,” the report details.

While 187 injured greyhounds did not meet the criteria for euthanasia, they still suffered a multitude of serious injuries. These included bleeding feet, burst blood vessels in shoulders, flesh wounds, lacerations on the shoulder, broken bones, bruised flanks, a gashed flank and pelvic injuries.

Post-mortems conducted on the eight greyhounds who died on the track or shortly after a race shed further light on the dangers of the sport. One greyhound, who collapsed and died at Limerick stadium in February, suffered a fatal abdominal hemorrhage. Another,who collapsed and died in April at Mullingar stadium,succumbed to acute heart failure.

This recent data highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive review of safety protocols and regulations within the Irish greyhound racing industry. It is imperative that the welfare of these animals is prioritized, and steps are taken to mitigate the risks inherent in the sport.

What are the ethical implications of greyhound racing in Ireland, especially considering the high number of injuries and euthanizations?

Crackdown Needed: A Frank Discussion on Ireland’s Greyhound Racing Crisis

Interviewer: Archyde News,

Alex Reed: Dr. Orla Fitzgerald, Veterinary Surgeon and Senior Lecturer at University College Dublin’s School of Veterinary Medicine

Archyde News: Dr. Fitzgerald, the latest figures from the Irish Greyhound Board (IGB) paint a bleak picture. 2024 saw a record high of injured and deceased greyhounds. What’s your initial reaction to these numbers?

Dr. Orla Fitzgerald: These figures are deeply troubling and underscores the urgent need for a radical rethink of greyhound racing as it stands today. We’re talking about hundreds of dogs suffering life-altering injuries and losing their lives. It’s a grim testament to the current state of their welfare.

Archyde News: Can you elucidate on some of the most severe injuries reported and the impact they have on these animals?

Dr. Orla Fitzgerald: We’re seeing a litany of severe injuries: complete fractures, dislocations, nerve damage, and even cases of internal bleeding and heart failure. For greyhounds suffering from these injuries, the impact is profound.Many will require extensive, costly treatment, and often, they’re left with lifelong disabilities.Tragically,many others are not so lucky and lose their lives.

Archyde News: Nearly half of the injured greyhounds were euthanized. What does this say about the current state of animal welfare in the industry?

Dr. Orla Fitzgerald: It’s a stark reflection of the reality that many greyhounds are not valued as sentient beings, but rather as disposable commodities. The high euthanasia rate indicates that the industry is failing to prioritize the wellbeing of these animals.

Archyde News: What changes do you believe need to be implemented urgently to ensure the welfare of greyhounds in Irish racing?

dr. Orla Fitzgerald: We need a complete overhaul of safety protocols and a stronger focus on preventative measures. This includes track surface improvements, stricter enforcement of racing rules, increased vet presence, and improved aftercare for retired or injured greyhounds. Moreover, we need to push for stricter regulations around breeding and racing frequencies.

archyde news: given the alarming trends and the high-profile criticism the industry has faced, do you believe there’s a future for greyhound racing in Ireland?

Dr.Orla Fitzgerald: I sincerely hope so, but only if the industry can demonstrate a commitment to prioritizing the welfare of greyhounds above profit. The future of greyhound racing in Ireland hangs in the balance, and the responsibility lies with the IGB and stakeholders to prove they are serious about change.