The Welsh Senedd has outlawed greyhound racing, hailed as a triumph for animal welfare but leaving racing enthusiasts mourning the loss of a decades-old tradition.
Greyhound racing in Wales is coming to an end. The sport has been banned over animal welfare concerns, a move celebrated by campaigners but condemned by racing enthusiasts.
Greyhound Rescue Wales, alongside charities like Blue Cross and the RSPCA, has long pushed for a ban. They argue the sport is outdated and cruel. Last year, 601 dogs raced at Valley Greyhounds—the last track in Wales. At least 115 were injured.
“This is a momentous day for greyhounds, an ancient and noble breed whose very recent history has been blighted by this cruel and unnecessary gambling product,” said Tim Doyle, CEO of Greyhound Rescue Wales. “We are pleased that the Welsh Government has put animal welfare first and added Wales to the extensive list of countries that have banned greyhound racing in recent years.”
Not everyone agrees, however. Paul, a Valley Greyhounds regular, is devastated. “Gutted, mate. Absolutely gutted. This place means everything to me. Been comin’ here since I was a kid. Now they’re just shuttin’ it down. It ain’t right.”
He insists the dogs are loved and well cared for. “They love to run—it’s what they’re bred for. If there was cruelty goin’ on, I wouldn’t be here. Banning it will push it underground, and that’ll be worse.”
Dai, another supporter, is furious. “This is a stitch-up! They’ve taken no notice of us. Just a bunch of do-gooders who don’t know the first thing about racing deciding what’s best for us.”
For many, Valley Greyhounds was more than a track. “It’s gonna rip the heart out of the place,” Paul said. “We’re like a family. Friday nights, a few pints, a flutter, a catch-up. Now they’re takin’ it away.”
Doyle acknowledged the challenges ahead. “We are now hard at work with our partner rescues to coordinate and manage the rehoming of dogs leaving the industry, and we are committed to ensuring that no dog is made homeless by the end to greyhound racing in Wales.”
With the last Welsh track closing, some may head to England. Others fear this is the beginning of the end for greyhound racing in the UK. Doyle hopes Wales’ decision will set a precedent. “We hope that respective governments will now take notice of Wales leading the way in putting greyhound welfare above entertainment.”