Damning evidence from VIC, NSW & QLD implicated dozens trainers and their staff in the illegal practice of ‘live baiting’.
High profile trainers and industry heavyweights were among those present when live animals were tied to lures, flung around racetracks at breakneck speeds, and mauled to death. Terrified piglets, rabbits and possums were all casualties of the harrowing training sessions. Some animals who survived their first mauling were ‘re-used’ multiple times.
For decades, stories of live baiting have plagued greyhound racing. But despite reports and government inquiries — the ability of authorities to investigate reports has been hindered by a lack of video evidence. In a high-risk operation, investigators used surveillance cameras to obtain much-needed evidence on which action could finally be taken.
Greyhounds are naturally gentle dogs, but as ‘sight hounds’ they can easily be incited to chase moving objects. Cut-throat trainers looking for a ‘winning’ edge take advantage of this by ‘taunting’ dogs with tethered live animals, and tying animals — literally kicking and screaming — to fast-moving lures.
The shocking vision, which aired on ABC Four Corners, exposes a culture of cruelty and cheating, and throws into question thousands of races and millions of dollars in prize money.
Industry self-regulation is failing dismally. And while self-regulation continues, there can be little hope that live baiting will ever be eradicated from the industry.
This petition plays a vital role — but you can have an even greater impact for animals today. Here’s how:
