The fate of greyhounds in Ireland
Various forms of animal contests and races operate around the world based on long-standing traditions. In Spain, tickets to bullfights are still available today, while hundreds of horse racing and greyhound tracks operate globally, not to mention the many illegal animal fights that are organized and being bet on behind the scenes.
For spectators and betters these events may seem like carefree entertainment, but this is misleading. While animals naturally have a strong need for movement, they surely enjoy running, perhaps even competing, while audiences enjoy placing bets and celebrating their favorites, it may seem like a win-win situation. However, this is a misconception.
Misconceptions about animal racing
We usually only see racing animals on the track, we rarely witness their everyday lives. They are the elite athletes of the animal world, but do they receive the same care and comfort in their daily lives as professional human athletes?
Those who live with a ‘tikkun’ mindset, or are just beginning to explore how to live in greater harmony with the natural world and make it a little better, may start to wonder what happens behind the scenes. Their suspicion is often justified sadly. In many cases, the living conditions of these animals are far from adequate.
Let us not forget that profit-driven enterprises carefully monitor their expenses, while animals cannot speak up for themselves in such a vulnerable animal-human relationship. They cannot ask for larger spaces instead of cramped kennels, cannot demand proper nutrition, and in many cases cannot refuse doping. And when they are exhausted, they cannot ask for rest.
Do we need to say more about the injustice of animal racing?
Tikkun in Ireland – Can greyhounds be saved?
Pro Animale für Tiere in Not e. V. – our German partners, who share our commitment to the Tikkun spirit, were the first organisation to establish a sanctuary specifically for helping greyhounds in the Republic of Ireland around twenty years ago. They were able to look behind the curtains of greyhound racing and learned about the distressing situation these dogs were subjected to those days. And still mostly are… given greyhounds are broadly not considered pets in Ireland, but merely a means of entertainment and profit. Their sanctuary “Avalon” (which we’ll share more details about soon in an upcoming post) since operates as a safe haven for greyhounds leaving the race industry.
The fate of 6,000 greyhounds each year in Ireland
Each year in Ireland, approximately 6,000 greyhounds can no longer compete on the tracks. They come from roughly 15–20 racing venues across the country. The small team at Avalon works tirelessly to ensure that as many of them as possible gain not another race, but a new life.
Although increasing regulations aim to provide care for dogs leaving the racing industry, animal rescue organizations are also actively working to save these greyhounds.
The World will be a better place when greyhounds are around us, not on racetracks
You can follow the work of our partner Avalon in Ireland on their Facebook and Instagram pages, where they regularly share updates about newly rescued, adorable greyhounds. There, you can witness the first uncertain steps of their new lives beyond the racetrack. We will also share updates about them, as their work truly makes the world a better place.
The number of animals waiting to be rescued is immense, and so is the mission ahead of us. Step by step, we move forward towards a world where we live in peace with the sentient beings around us, and, above all, do not cause them suffering.
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