A media report today claims that there has been no change to the Victorian greyhound racing industry regarding animal welfare.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

Greyhound Racing Victoria Chief Executive Alan Clayton said the greyhound racing industry in Victoria has undergone major reform in the past two years with animal welfare a key priority.

“Our participants have been key in driving a significant cultural shift and our annual report for 2016-17, to be released later this year, will show that animal welfare is at the forefront of everyone’s minds with massive improvements in key areas including animal welfare, rehoming and reducing euthanasia,” Mr Clayton said.

“Our annual report will show euthanasia numbers have fallen significantly on last year – down more than 50 per cent.

“It will also show that rehoming is at record levels – up about 60 per cent.

“Breeding numbers are also down by more than 50 per cent, racing injuries have fallen and our animal welfare officers will have visited every kennel in the State before the end of 2017.”

GRV’s GAP program has had the best year in Australian greyhound adoption history and along with other adoption agencies such as Gippsland Greys, Greyhound Safety Net and RSPCA have set a new rehoming record and this includes the placement of greyhounds with muzzles.

“It’s disappointing when inaccurate reports denigrating our industry appear, especially when we have already achieved such a significant amount of change over the past two years.

“It’s clear that our industry participants, including mums, dads and family members love their dogs.

“These are really good people.

“It should also be noted that Victorian families are increasingly learning what wonderful, low maintenance and loving pets, greyhounds are and joining us in welcoming them into their homes.”