Been thinking about going down to owlerton stadium, was wondering if anyone had been, and if so whether it is fun or a bit wierd if you're not into dogs! Sorry to show my naivety about such things but what do you actually do? Do you bet on which one is going to win or just watch? And is it smart or scruffy?

boring Bingo is far better, and it is easier to pull at Bingo

Its ok, but i aint a clus on betting!:hihi: , but to be honest you feel out of place putting 1 quid on when somes doing loads:rolleyes: , to be honest i think its more for a drink really, and a bit of fun:)

Its also cruel and anybody with any love of annimals would not support it.

i've been a few times, never took a lot of money, and a couple of times came home with a lot more than i started with, it's a bit scruffy on the track but normal pubby in the bar. Keep your taxi fare safe, set a limit and enjoy!
But don't bet on a limping mutt, and if one has a plop bet on it cos it's that bit lighter now!

When I lived and worked in Sheffield (left Sheffield 2004) the department of the bank I worked in very often used to have a social night out at t'dogs. We even one year had our Christmas works 'do' there. We always had a really good time and a good laugh. The best thing was that the betting stakes weren't expensive. I think we used to put 50p on or something stupid like that and we always used to have a 'kitty' for the winnings to bet on other races. We always seemed to break even on the night.

I think to have a really good night of it though you do need to go in a group. I think only the serious 'betters' tend to go by themselves and put on big stakes. Also if you put your bet on with the 'tic-tac' men rather than in the bar area I understand that there is a minimum bet of 5 pounds - far too much for the likes of us poor bank employees!!

PM Godzilla - she's the forum greyhound expert! :)

At the end of the day its a few dogs running round a dirt track.

It can be a bit of fun if there are a few of you, and you only have to bet a few quid. Don't try too hard to guess the winners as there is no reason to any of it. The place itself is pretty grim and expensive - I find I get bored ater a couple of hours and the casino next door is much more fun... :)

Its also cruel and anybody with any love of annimals would not support it.

I've heard that said before. Can you explain why it is cruel?

I've heard that said before. Can you explain why it is cruel?

Cos they're too thick to notice that it's a fake Rabbit they're chasing, and not a live one.

Some people think it's taking libertys of the dogs intelligence.

Been thinking about going down to owlerton stadium, was wondering if anyone had been, and if so whether it is fun or a bit wierd if you're not into dogs! Sorry to show my naivety about such things but what do you actually do? Do you bet on which one is going to win or just watch? And is it smart or scruffy?

They used to have free sessions Tues and Thurs morning if they still do it.
Go down and have a look costs nothing,if you don't like it walk out.
Be warned the bookies control that track,I went once to take photo's a steward came and asked me to stop as the bookies had complained the camera shutter might put off their dogs !
I said it is a digital camera,I can switch all sound off ,but still not allowed.Other tracks allow it no problem.

I've heard that said before. Can you explain why it is cruel? Its too upsetting to go into it on here , if you really want to know just do a cruel sports search.

It is a good night out as long as you assume you aren't going to go home with more money than you started with - if you do, it is a bonus.

It is just dogs running round a track, in the same way that football is just 23 guys running after a ball, golf is a walk where you occasionally hit a ball, fishing is an excuse for sitting aorund by a pond or in a boat, tv is just a series of electrons which make a patterns on screen etc etc. It is what you make of it...

But don't knock it until you have tried it at least once.

I am an animal lover an enjoy it...

do they still have the banger races at owerlton? now that was a cracking night out.

I've heard that said before. Can you explain why it is cruel?


Dunno, but have you ever seen a happy looking greyhound ? They all look down in the mouth to me, - perhaps they realise that when their racing days are over they'll be destroyed or just abandoned.

Been a few times, and really enjoyed it. For the life of me cannot think why it is a cruel sport, surely horse racing is crueler than watching some dogs run around a bit?

They used to have free sessions Tues and Thurs morning if they still do it.

They also have free admission on Tuesday evenings now as well. If you want a racecard, it'll cost £1.50, but you get a voucher in there to get your first drink for £1!

They also have free admission on Tuesday evenings now as well. If you want a racecard, it'll cost £1.50, but you get a voucher in there to get your first drink for £1!
you could do with a few, it was about £2.50 for a pint of lemonade!:o :hihi:

hiya :wave: yeah i have been - went 2 or 3 times last year and loved it!!! we also went for my fiance's 21st birthday - its a great night out, BUT... you do need quite a bit of money for it - especially if you are betting all the time?!

i would go - its something different and a great night out :thumbsup:

A despicable activity that should be outlawed.

When will we realise that animals are not here on earth for our amusement?

do they still have the banger races at owerlton? now that was a cracking night out.

They sure do, stock car racing is back on April 1st 2pm, BriSCA F1 and F2 World qualifier, if anyone wants anymore details on stock car racing in Sheffield or nationally please pm me.

There is currently a January "Sale" on. Tuesdays and Fridays £3, Saturdays £5. For this, you get admission, a racecard, pie & peas and a drink. You have to book on 2343074 in advance and there has to be a minimum party of four people for the 'sale' offer.
It is possible to win, say, on a one-off but I suggest most people will lose at gambling in the long-run. Set yourself a sum of money that you are prepared to lose, don't get carried away and put it down to both experience and entertainment. Wrap up warm if you're outside, the atmosphere is better there, but I think most people watch from behind the glass.

Been a few times, and really enjoyed it. For the life of me cannot think why it is a cruel sport, surely horse racing is crueler than watching some dogs run around a bit?
The dogs love to run and that is not in dispute, the cruelty comes in 2 parts from my point of view, the first one being that in training the less scrupulous trainers have been known to "bring out" the dogs chase instinct by giving them live kittens and other small animals to kill :mad: i do not honestly know how often this happens but it does.
The second part of the cruelty involved is that once the racing days are over (this could be at any point from a few months to about 5 years)the dogs are as others have pointed out either killed, some are dumped, some dumped in rescue centres who have a very hard job to rehome the dogs...so there again they either languish in kennels for months or even years or again are pts.
Dogs are more and more being mutilated now by having their ears cut off (to remove tattoos proving ownership) and left to bleed to death, or shot through the head with a bolt gun, no one knows what happens to a lot of the ex racing dogs.....no records are kept.
There is a great deal of information available on the net if you look.

there are aspects of greyhound racing that need addressing, but Owlerton Stadium has put a considerable amount of money into it's Retired Greyhound Fund recently, which means that every effort goes into finding homes for our ex-racers. The dogs like to chase. These days the lore is a piece of flourescent canvas, which does not resemble anything small and furry. In the past, particularly in Ireland, some greyhound breeders/trainers allowed the young greyhounds access to wildlife, but this is now frowned upon.

As far as it being a good night out (if you are not anti-racing), there are various bars where you can watch the action on large TV screens if you don't want to venture out. The track-side bookies deal in larger amounts - minimum bet £5, but you can place a bet 'to win' for £1 on the tote, or win/place bets in 50p units. At the moment it's free on a Tuesday night - and there are also free BAGS meetings which take place on Monday and Thursday lunch times 11.30am - 2.45pm. If you decide to get to a Friday meeting, say Hello to me. I usually sell a Tip Sheet just inside the turnstiles - it's 50p and all proceeds go towards the Retired Greyhound Fund.

A despicable activity that should be outlawed.

When will we realise that animals are not here on earth for our amusement?


Actually, animals are put on earth to be part of the food chain - so can we race them if we eat them afterwards?

Been thinking about going down to owlerton stadium, was wondering if anyone had been, and if so whether it is fun or a bit wierd if you're not into dogs! Sorry to show my naivety about such things but what do you actually do? Do you bet on which one is going to win or just watch? And is it smart or scruffy?
The dogs is a spot on night out you dont have to be into sport or dogs for that matter to enjoy at night out at owlerton.
Just come in clothes what you wear to go to the pub in,
you can bet as little as 50p and its easy to do they give you a racecard when you go in then you just go by each race picking the dog what takes your fancy. If its wet then bet on trap 4, 5, or 6 its easier to run on the outside than the inside when its wet try it sometime lol:thumbsup:

I have been a few times to greyhound racing, after i found out how creul it is i have stopped.

The dogs are just killed when they are not required no more, or starved to death etc heres just one fact

Dogs that have no propensity to kill are placed in cages at close quarters with rabbits. The trainers then deny the dogs food, starving them until hunger drives them to kill their caged companions. In this way, trainers awaken bloodlust in dogs that are non-violent by character.

I have been a few times to greyhound racing, after i found out how creul it is i have stopped.

The dogs are just killed when they are not required no more, or starved to death etc heres just one fact

Dogs that have no propensity to kill are placed in cages at close quarters with rabbits. The trainers then deny the dogs food, starving them until hunger drives them to kill their caged companions. In this way, trainers awaken bloodlust in dogs that are non-violent by character.
Maybe but whats your point exactley?????

if you ever kept a dog, you would appreciate them and would not support this cruel sport.

Even if you didnt have a dog and are against animal cruelty then greyhound racing is totally wrong!

Can't see the point really, it's about as useless as horse racing. And when the dogs are past their prime some are put down if they can't find homes for retired dogs. Being bred for speed, I believe they also suffer from various ailments because of the genetic selection.

Maybe but whats your point exactley?????
Cant really speak for Dear Tony but the point would seem to be is it really right to have a good night out at the expense of misery and death of animals, thats for your own concience to answer.... i know i will never go " to the dogs" again!

do they still have the banger races at owerlton? now that was a cracking night out.yes only a few meetings this year but if u like it dont miss the 13th ov may "battle ov britain"unlimited bangers this meeting was about fully booked late last year absolutely fantastic be about 50 to 100 cars there an bet there wont be a runnin one left at end ov the day

been loads ov times good laugh had a few bets but dont go mad,me bro an a mate put 3 quid on in one race an won 96 quid paid for most ov our beer:thumbsup:

I've been a couple of times and enjoyed it. We only go for fun, not serious betting so just have a laugh.

it's a great night been a few times and you don't need to know that much about betting just pick 2 numbers and stick with them!!

or the colour you like!
The blokes we went with were being statistical and didn't win a penny while at least one of the girls i was with won each time with random bets!

Can't see the point really, it's about as useless as horse racing. And when the dogs are past their prime some are put down if they can't find homes for retired dogs. Being bred for speed, I believe they also suffer from various ailments because of the genetic selection.
In actual fact greyhounds are one of the very oldest breeds and are largely free of genetic problems. Some do sustain injuries in racing which might give rise to problems later, e.g. arthritic symptoms, but they slow down naturally once they are past their racing prime, and settle beautifully as couch potatoes. Looked after well, they can reach 12/13 years of age.

They are sight hounds and have a natural chase instinct which does not have to be honed by the killing of rabbits/hares etc. Of course, it may be a very different matter with greyhounds used for coursing, but this isn't something I support.

Most trainers look after their greyhounds well - they need to be fit and happy to run well, and most try their best to find homes for ex-racers.

The industry tries to promote greyhound ownership by encouraging syndicates - it makes it all sound cheap and fun - but then no one will take responsibility when its racing days are over. I'd like to see syndicates discouraged unless a member undertakes to be responsible for their dog when its racing days are over. Individual owners commonly take their ex-racers home or find homes amongst friends and family.

I doubt that greyhound racing will be banned, but there does need to be more regulation and a greater emphasis on greyhound welfare. I feel I can do more for this cause within the system than without - and I would say to everyone who watches dog racing "support the Retired Greyhound Fund, the bookies will only spend your money on fast cars and loose women".

Actually, animals are put on earth to be part of the food chain - so can we race them if we eat them afterwards?


HOW PREDICTABLE;
Are you saying that you don't mind the notion of treating an animal cruelly if it is to be ultimately eaten? I am a vegy personally.
Your twisted 'logic' is typical of those who try to defend an indefencible position.
The cruelty that exists in animal racing is very well hidden. These people have no love or respect for the animals. Their concern is only for their own pleasure.
And when the animal is no longer a viable racer it is either killed or dumped.
Rescue homes are full of them.

Been thinking about going down to owlerton stadium, was wondering if anyone had been, and if so whether it is fun or a bit wierd if you're not into dogs! Sorry to show my naivety about such things but what do you actually do? Do you bet on which one is going to win or just watch? And is it smart or scruffy?
it's a good night out just bet sensibly couple pound a race or less up to you .if there a bunch of you probably better plenty of banter:thumbsup:

i've been loads of times. its great fun. Especially when the pork sarnies come out :-D i usually bet 50p reverse forcast (costs £1) and you pick 2 dogs. if them 2 dogs come in first and second in eithier order you win bucket loads. I won £39 odd off the pound bet on our works xmas bash. (just go to cashier and say "50p reverse on 2 and 6" or whatever number dogs you fancy,give them a pound and they give you a ticket, then wait for the cash to come roling in

i've been loads of times. its great fun. Especially when the pork sarnies come out :-D i usually bet 50p reverse forcast (costs £1) and you pick 2 dogs. if them 2 dogs come in first and second in eithier order you win bucket loads. I won £39 odd off the pound bet on our works xmas bash. (just go to cashier and say "50p reverse on 2 and 6" or whatever number dogs you fancy,give them a pound and they give you a ticket, then wait for the cash to come roling in
if only it was that easy mate :hihi:

It is boring, I did it dozens of times and the dog always won.

if only it was that easy mate :hihi:
yeah i did fail to mention the times when i bet on every race and came out with a lot less cash than i went in with. but they do serve a real nice pint of guinness

We went on a works do and there was a problem with an arsehole parking attendant trying to charge us twice. None of us have been back because of the attitude of the management and security in dealing with the problem.:rant:

Been thinking about going down to owlerton stadium, was wondering if anyone had been, and if so whether it is fun or a bit wierd if you're not into dogs! Sorry to show my naivety about such things but what do you actually do? Do you bet on which one is going to win or just watch? And is it smart or scruffy?

only one real way to find out and thats to go down youself with a few mates, have been many times and provided you don't go daft on the betting side, it can be a good night out, you do get to see some real characters there.

Been thinking about going down to owlerton stadium, was wondering if anyone had been, and if so whether it is fun or a bit wierd if you're not into dogs! Sorry to show my naivety about such things but what do you actually do? Do you bet on which one is going to win or just watch? And is it smart or scruffy?

only one real way to find out and thats to go down yourself with a few mates and make your own mind up.
have been many times and provided you don't go daft on the betting side and don't take the whole thing too seriously, it can be a good night out, you do get to see some real characters there.

oops sorry guys clicked wrong key

it's a great laugh, you dont have to know about betting to have fun, just put money on the dog with the best name, law of averages says your goin to win at least one. and its a great feeling when you win, even if it is a couple of quid. it's an experience. there are a lot of "chavvy" type people there, but all in all it's fun.

Could lead to addiction [oh never not me ] and cruelty its boring nothing going for it .

Im not a gambler or a fan of any sport in particular but I went for the first time recently and had a really good night. Id recommend it :)

Godzilla, I fully respect what you are saying but sadly, I believe, you are in a minority group.

I have been to the races, I have experience in animal rescue and seen far too many ex-racing greyhounds being cast off, I've met a greyhound that was left for dead in a ditch and whose ears were mutilated to avoid identification but miraculously survived to live a luxury life.

The greyhound track will never see my money again. It's cases like this that sicken me to the pit of my stomach ...........

http://news.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30100-13556552,00.html

It is boring, I did it dozens of times and the dog always won.

You should have tried putting a saddle on the hare!

Godzilla, I fully respect what you are saying but sadly, I believe, you are in a minority group.

I have been to the races, I have experience in animal rescue and seen far too many ex-racing greyhounds being cast off, I've met a greyhound that was left for dead in a ditch and whose ears were mutilated to avoid identification but miraculously survived to live a luxury life.

The greyhound track will never see my money again. It's cases like this that sicken me to the pit of my stomach ...........

http://news.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30100-13556552,00.html
Well said... although i have to say that Owlerton have actually opened a sanctuary for ex racers untill they are re-homed, i do not know how many will actually benefit from this but it's a start, people must have worked very hard for this to happen, and praise where praise is due!
Unfortunately this is just a small drop in the ocean, such beautiful, loving and loyal dogs, they make good money for their owners and are rewarded by suffering and ultimately death in many many cases, most of the appalling cruelty we will never heat about.... they make sure of that :rant:
A good dog is worth thousands but at the end of the racing day when no money is to be made life is cheap!

i prefer racing jabberwockys

bit hard to get em going but once in full flight its bloody hard to stop em again

I've heard that said before. Can you explain why it is cruel?

its like all animal sports / entertainment

zoos
horse racing
animals for tv /film
greyhound racing etc etc

created for human enjoyment


the animals arent always kept in the best of health
discarded or worse when not needed anymore or when they cant perform
beaten to make them perform (also known as training)


and we dont even need to use em for that

[QUOTE=Fishpole]Godzilla, I fully respect what you are saying but sadly, I believe, you are in a minority group.

I have been to the races, I have experience in animal rescue and seen far too many ex-racing greyhounds being cast off, I've met a greyhound that was left for dead in a ditch and whose ears were mutilated to avoid identification but miraculously survived to live a luxury life.
QUOTE]

I agree that there are many examples of cruelty to greyhounds, but no breed is exempt. The incidence of cruelty to all animals is a national disgrace. I doubt that greyhound racing will ever be banned, but my 'mission' is to work from the inside to help make greyhound welfare a mainstream issue in the industry, not just a side issue.

The only people who really make money out of greyhound racing are the stadium owners and the bookies. A handful of owners & trainers can make big money, if they've got a top open class dog, which can be put to stud at the end of its racing days.

As far as owning a racing greyhound goes, you can pay around £1,000 upwards depending on the grade of dog. Kenneling with a trainer costs around £150 per month and then there may be vets fees etc. When your greyhound wins you get between £30-£60, again depending on the grade. You get an average of £15 'appearance' money if it doesn't win. On average your greyhound will race once a week. Unless you've got a really consistent winner, most people will be lucky to break even against kennelling costs - and if you have a bitch, then she will be out in season twice a year and not racing. Some owners may make a bit on the gambling, but unless you are putting big money down and have a lot of luck, this is minimal. Most trainers, unless they are big names, don't make all that much money. A fair number of them have other strings to their bow. The pay-off for most owners is cheering on their greyhound and getting a photo with the trophy. Also, lots of owners go to training kennels at the weekends to walk and fuss their greyhound. Many do take them home at the end of their racing careers and there are particular trainers at Owlerton who have good reputations for re-homing ex-racers direct.

However, there are far too many races and trainers are put under pressure by the track to supply more and more dogs. The work we are doing at Sheffield Retired Greyhound Fund is like a drop in the ocean, but we hope to set an example to other tracks. We have the backing of the main RGT and our tasks are to raise funds, promote greyhound welfare, educate the public about what great pets they make, and to find as many loving homes as possible.

Thanks for everyone's interest.

Always bet on the hare! That ****er always wins - but then it is being chased by a pack of vicious, snarling psychopaths!:loopy:

u shud go its a laugh went for my 20th wiv family an friends of all ages and every1 had a good time

The haaaaaare is ON THE MOOOOVE!

The haaaaaare is ON THE MOOOOVE!


You been drinking, by any chance? :hihi:

I agree that there are many examples of cruelty to greyhounds, but no breed is exempt. The incidence of cruelty to all animals is a national disgrace. I doubt that greyhound racing will ever be banned, but my 'mission' is to work from the inside to help make greyhound welfare a mainstream issue in the industry, not just a side issue.

I take my hat off to you and agree entirely that the only way to change things is from within. Greyhounds are fabulous, elegant dogs with a misguided reputation of killers of small animals that need masses of exercise! If you are managing to change the public perception of them, then all good on you!

As you said, cruelty isn't breed specific but staying on the topic of greyhounds, it can't be denied that there are hundreds of them facing death every day, either because they didn't make the grade in the first place or because they're past it.

However, there are far too many races and trainers are put under pressure by the track to supply more and more dogs. The work we are doing at Sheffield Retired Greyhound Fund is like a drop in the ocean, but we hope to set an example to other tracks. We have the backing of the main RGT and our tasks are to raise funds, promote greyhound welfare, educate the public about what great pets they make, and to find as many loving homes as possible.

I don't want to distract from your good work (I am asking a very sincere question now) but I feel I have to ask, what is the ratio of greyhounds coming off the Sheffield track to the successful rehoming by RGT?

I don't want to distract from your good work (I am asking a very sincere question now) but I feel I have to ask, what is the ratio of greyhounds coming off the Sheffield track to the successful rehoming by RGT?

Sheffield Retired Greyhound Fund homed just under 100 greyhounds in 2006 - this does not include dogs re-homed directly by trainers or taken home by their original owners (of which I do not have any figures). Since we have been at Gosling Moor Farm, there has been a marked increase in people interested in homing a retired greyhound, and we will be disappointed if we do not exceed 150 in 2007. However, it is not our goal to re-home at any cost. We want to see the right greyhound with the right family. Yes, greyhounds are gentle, loving creatures and adapt well to home life, BUT some have a much more developed chase instinct than others. Greyhounds that retire after their racing career is naturally over, at about 5 years old, have usually had enough and are more than happy to hang up their running shoes! However, an increasing number of greyhounds come out of racing injured. These dogs are younger - maybe 2 or three years of age, and they still have loads of energy and can be quite powerful. It often takes patience and hard work to calm them down. Of course, the rewards are immeasurable.

But to go some way to answering your question: Greyhound Racing at Owlerton takes place three nights a week with a minimum of 12 races per night. Each race requires 6 dogs. There are two lunchtime BAGS meetings per week with a minimum of 10 races. It is extremely rare that a greyhound would race more frequently than once a week. If my maths is right, then each week there has to be at least 336 greyhounds on the racing strength + reserves.

The haaaaaare is ON THE MOOOOVE!

Ah. the ghost of Dave Hackett!

Been thinking about going down to owlerton stadium, was wondering if anyone had been, and if so whether it is fun or a bit wierd if you're not into dogs! Sorry to show my naivety about such things but what do you actually do? Do you bet on which one is going to win or just watch? And is it smart or scruffy?

I've been once, put a quid's bet on the last race at 8-1 odds and the bloomin' thing actually won! Yay! 8 quid to the good! :D

I'd love to go again but never get round to it.. Hmm, maybe someone should do a thread! A meet at the dogs! Would probably be popular IMO, although knowing my luck if I did the thread, either nobody would turn up, or I'd end up having to cancel due to not being able to make it myself cos it's a mortal sin on here to do a meet thread and then the OP doesn't turn up! :loopy:

Its also cruel and anybody with any love of annimals would not support it.
What a load of cods wallop,how is greyhound racing cruel?
The dogs get looked after more than some pets,PLUS they love chasing the rabbit (WHICH ISNT A REAL ONE):loopy:

Oh yer and its definetley good fun.:banana:

What a load of cods wallop,how is greyhound racing cruel?
The dogs get looked after more than some pets,PLUS they love chasing the rabbit (WHICH ISNT A REAL ONE):loopy:

Cruel.....?

OK, the dogs will be bred in a litter of around 6 or 7. Say only 2 or 3 show any skill in terms of racing ability, its likely the others will be put down - there aren't enough people wanting greys as pets so there is "no alternative" for the owner/breeder

If a dog shows much in the way of agression on the track, eg s/he nips at another dog, turns her/his head at another dog, more than the track rules allow s/he won't be allowed to race again and is likely therefore to be put down as s/he is no longer financially viable

The corner/curve/whatever on a course is a danger area for greys. they aren't designed to turn as required by the bend in many courses, so as a result many are injured and...........ooh, guess what, get put down. I was reading about a course recently - I can't remember which one it was so I accept it renders this bit of my argument invalid, but they tightened the bend whivh meant that, although it was more dangerous for the dogs and resulted in more injuries, the punters got a better view from the bar

I tend to think that a "sport" which breeds animals entirely for their gambling attraction and will kill those who don't come up to strength is fairly unnacceptable

I tend to think that a "sport" which breeds animals entirely for their gambling attraction and will kill those who don't come up to strength is fairly unnacceptable

Me too! :(

Godzilla, thank you for the information and well done on your successful rehoming figures last year. I hope you exceed next year's target many times over and continue to successfully promote the greyhound as a wonderful family pet.

It's difficult to compare your annual rehoming figures with the number of dogs that race per week but, even doing basic sums, I'm sure that there is a huge number of surplus dogs with no future. The throwaway acceptance throughout the industry is something I can't forgive.

One thing that is obvious, and disgusting in this thread is the number of people who don't give a toss about the cruelty aspect of greyhound racing - they completely ignore the whole problem.
As long as they enjoy themselves - eh?

Instant karma's gonna get you - I hope...

One thing that is obvious, and disgusting in this thread is the number of people who don't give a toss about the cruelty aspect of greyhound racing - they completely ignore the whole problem.
As long as they enjoy themselves - eh?

Instant karma's gonna get you - I hope...

Yes thats something i cannot understand either, i think they believe that if they close their eyes to what is blatently obvious the nasty aspect of it will not be real and will go away.... all they are really doing is becoming a part of the problem.

Personally i have never and will never go to a greyhound racing meet. The majority of the dogs that you will see will look absouloutly fine and have no medical issues. If they were unwell and unfit to run then they would not be allowed to take part in the race. What the people at the meet do not see is all the other dogs.

what happens to the ones that don't make the grade?
What happens to the ones that get injured?
What happens to the ones that are to old to carry on and stop winning?

Are people aware of the hideous things that these dogs are regularly put through. Have a look at your family pet would you ever dream of treating them the way a greyhound is treated? i very much doubt it. I imagine the majority of people who go to race meets have family pets and like dogs. If you do why would you watch something that causes so much pain and destruction to the very animals that we love, keep in our homes, trust our children and families with and spend our hard earned money on to keep them well and safe.

Thousands of dogs are abused, mistreated, abandoned and slaughtered. We also auction greyhound puppies and young dogs. the ones that possibly won't make the grade in this country or Ireland are quite often sold abroad to spain. They are raced to within an inch of their lives if they manage to stay alive. When they are unable to continue racing they are quite often slaughtered or sold onto travellers. They are used for hunting during the hunting season. Once the season is over the majority of the dogs are hanged as they are to past it to bother doing anything with them. What gets me the most here is that the dogs that haven't been that great at hunting are considered to be a disgrace to their master. They are hanged with there back legs just touching the floor to make there death last longer. They are hanged as it doesn't cost anything.

In this country we have had people exposed who have been killing greyhounds for trainers and owners. This also includes a supposed animal sanctuary. Just google greyhound cruelty you will be disgusted. I realise that horiffic things happen to all sorts of animals all the time. But in my view by going to a greyhound race meet you are agreeing to what happens to all those other dogs. You are saying it's ok and i for one am not willing to lower my standards and my morals and take part in something so hideous.

www.greyhoundaction.org.uk

Thanks
Helen

That was an enlightening link Adz! :(

I've heard of Leigh Animal Sanctuary but nothing in terms of carrying out those sort of practices. It's appalling!

At least, it would seem, the governing bodies are acting appropriately by banning some of these trainers for life. It is a small drop in a very large ocean but if we continue to highlight what goes on in the racing industry, maybe more people will sit up and listen.

I wonder if anyone reading this thread has had second thoughts. It would be interesting to hear.

One thing that is obvious, and disgusting in this thread is the number of people who don't give a toss about the cruelty aspect of greyhound racing - they completely ignore the whole problem.
As long as they enjoy themselves - eh?

Instant karma's gonna get you - I hope...

It's not cruel at all.
I used to own dogs at Owlerton and they are looked after very well.
I admit in greyhound racing as a whole there is a problem with rehoming greyhounds after they retire but Sheffield is one of the best in the country for this.

It does sound like the dogs at owlerton have it better than some but what about all the others and the dogs that are produced in this country that are sent abroad. Just because it isn't on your doorstep doesn't mean it's not happening. Your greyhounds Gunners were the lucky ones many are not.

I follow and support a charity called greyhound gap. In fact i have one of their dogs and i can tell you many of the dogs they have had pass through them have a very sad tale to tell.

I think this is a subject where people are easily deceived and unless you look into it you do not realise what really goes on.

It does sound like the dogs at owlerton have it better than some but what about all the others and the dogs that are produced in this country that are sent abroad. Just because it isn't on your doorstep doesn't mean it's not happening. Your greyhounds Gunners were the lucky ones many are not.

I follow and support a charity called greyhound gap. In fact i have one of their dogs and i can tell you many of the dogs they have had pass through them have a very sad tale to tell.

I think this is a subject where people are easily deceived and unless you look into it you do not realise what really goes on.

Thanks for a more informed reply than I could have made Adz.

Thanks supertyke this is a subject very close to my heart and i struggle to understand how people can think that it is humane and that cruelty does not take place. I hope by this thread existing that it may make a few people think twice about going to a greyhound meet.
Hey you never know someone may feel the need to look into adopting a grey.
www.greyhoundgap.com

[QUOTE=Adz;1864579
Hey you never know someone may feel the need to look into adopting a grey.

www.greyhoundgap.com[/QUOTE]

I wish I could adopt one myself Adz. My two mangy mongrels are enough for me at the moment!!
I know people who have adopted these beautiful creatures, - their loyalty and sweet temperaments are heartbreaking to behold.

We are surely going to see a reduction in these appalling sports as people become more enlightened to the reality. We hope...

We are surely going to see a reduction in these appalling sports as people become more enlightened to the reality. We hope...

Doubt that - this is one of the fastest growing spectator sports in the country.

What a load of cods wallop,how is greyhound racing cruel?
The dogs get looked after more than some pets,PLUS they love chasing the rabbit (WHICH ISNT A REAL ONE):loopy:

Well said and a spot on avatar to go with it lol.

I went Grayhound racing but those dogs were too fast for me. I could never beat them.

What a load of cods wallop,how is greyhound racing cruel?
The dogs get looked after more than some pets,PLUS they love chasing the rabbit (WHICH ISNT A REAL ONE):loopy:

no of course its not cruel - except for the alleged 10,000 that were put to death long before their time by that guy with the bolt gun who was all over the news earlier this year... and god knows how many more are eliminated in this country when they have outlived their racing use because the breeders/ owners dont want to know...

Most trainers and owners really care for their dogs. Many trainers I know try to keep tabs on the dogs they've re-homed, and many owners take their dogs home at the end of their racing careers. There are aspects of the sport which need regulating, but it'sthe wider public that needs educating also. A couple of weeks ago I was at the track selling a Tip Sheet for 50p, the proceeds of which go towards the Retired Greyhound Scheme, i.e. finding homes for Sheffield's ex-racers. One 'punter' pushed past with the line 'why would I be bothered about retired greyhounds?'. A night out at the dogs isn't going to give you much change out of £30 (min) and yet people resist donating 50p towards the welfare of the dogs that they are betting on all night.

To be fair a lot of people don,t have time for dogs myself included, i like greyhound racing, but havent got any bother about wanting to keep a dog, ok they can be loving and a good pet but they can also be vicious and dirty smelly things so its swings and roundabouts.

To be fair a lot of people don,t have time for dogs myself included, i like greyhound racing, but havent got any bother about wanting to keep a dog, ok they can be loving and a good pet but they can also be vicious and dirty smelly things so its swings and roundabouts.

Thats fair enough any pet has its down side, but thats not really the point here. You don't have to want to keep a greyhound as a pet to be concerned about the thousands that die needlessly each year, greyhounds are bred massively just for the enjoyment of people who like the sport, is it right to treat a living feeling creature as a throw away commodity?

greyhounds are bred massively just for the enjoyment of people who like the sport

Almost all dogs are bred like that these days.

Anyone who has a dog from a breeder is effectively supporting this, they want a perfect pet and don't stop to think about all the "rejects" that were removed (like deaf dalmations) before they got there to pick their puppy.

Shows like crufts are a showcase for what we have done these animals, giving them excess skin so thay can't see or breath or making their legs so short they can't walk properly and get arthritus very young.

All animals are comodities these days, unless a person is a non-pet owning vegan who has never taken any drug or used any cosmetic tested on an animal they are in no possition to criticise someone else for being "cruel" by going to a grayhound race.

Almost all dogs are bred like that these days.
No not quite in the same way, these are dogs only bred for racing and many never make the grade and are needlessly killed after being needlessly bred in the first place.

Anyone who has a dog from a breeder is effectively supporting this, they want a perfect pet and don't stop to think about all the "rejects" that were removed (like deaf dalmations) before they got there to pick their puppy.

Shows like crufts are a showcase for what we have done these animals, giving them excess skin so thay can't see or breath or making their legs so short they can't walk properly and get arthritus very young.
Absolutely agree!

All animals are comodities these days, unless a person is a non-pet owning vegan who has never taken any drug or used any cosmetic tested on an animal they are in no possition to criticise someone else for being "cruel" by going to a grayhound race.
I don't think that anyone said it was cruel to go to a greyhound race? what people actually said was that at the end of the racing career which may be after 4 years or even less the dogs are dumped into rescue centres with very little hope of ever being homed, or simply put to sleep without even having a chance, they are the lucky ones others are simply turned out onto the streets, or even simply shot... there is so much information about now to back this up, read the posts from other people to see that for yourself.

I sit on both sides of the fence here, i own a retired greyhound had a good career at sheffield. he was a quality dog and won right through to A1 grade. he's now our pet and you'll not find a better dog (i know i know you all think you have better dogs)

I also work for William Hill and like all other bookmakers we want a lot of dog racing on through SIS broadcast into the shops, it works out at about 85 live races shown daily, this is to keep punters in the shops especially at times when there is no horse racing. Remember only a small % of evening meeting are shown on SIS so the amount of racing is phenomonal especially over the weekends.

I'm sure there has been cruelty within the sport but i know a majority of trainers are not cruel.

You can like it or not but you won't shut down the greyhound industry until you abolish bookmakers and lets face it that isn't gonna happen is it.

Incidently i love a night at the track in fact i will be there on friday selling tip sheets for the retired greyhound trust before having a drink and a bet.
Maybe some of you need to take a reality check you live in the real world a world where greyhounds run the track and people try to make money out of it and bookmakers try usually successfully to stop them.

We own an ex-racer (adopted through RGT at Owlerton). I know there are problems in the industry but there are some positive outcomes which need highlighting.

Ours retired a little early at 3 years old due to an injury. When we went to the kennels we were treated fabulously - the staff talked to us about what we were looking for and what our home life was like. We were able to take a dog to try for the weekend which was great (of course, she never left!). As part of the adoption process we were given a lead, collar, coat and some free insurance, plus she came spayed and innoculated. All in all, it was the most organised and responsible system of acquiring a pet I can think of!

Ours is a genuine example of how well these dogs can be treated by the owners and trainers. We take her back to the training kennels sometimes and as soon as she sees the staff she jumps up on them, thrilled to see them. She is a fabulously soppy, loving dog and she still loves to run (fast, too, the other day she was running in a field and took my legs out from beneath me at about 25mph). When she runs with us, the look on her face and the position of her tail is exactly like the dogs at the track - I just cannot believe they are not happy.

A night out at the dogs is fun. Don't be afraid of only putting bets of 50p or £1 on - why not!!? Do give the RGT guys some time (and spare change) - they work really hard and need support.