I AM writing in response to your article (July 7, Football: Chief’s backing move to Friday).
I was appalled to read that additional greyhound racing will be conducted on Fridays at the Oxford track.
One of the trainers, Ron Bicknell, states: “By the time I get home it will be close to midnight, but it’s part of the game.”
Greyhound racing is no game.
These dogs are put at risk of death and serious injury every time they race.
If they are away from their kennel facility, they will likely be crammed into greyhound hauling vehicles without food or proper water, since these vehicles are intended for transportation, not housing.
By including more races on one day, the track is also increasing the likelihood of two or more dogs being crammed into “holes” on the haulers that are intended for one dog.
This change reflects a lack of concern for the welfare of the greyhounds being exploited for this industry.
Bicknell sums up the attitude of the industry in his statement: “As long as we get paid the money, I am happy to do it.”
Greyhounds deserve better.
I have been involved in greyhound adoption, foster care, and advocacy since 2005 and currently share my home with four greyhounds.
I am also vice president of GREY2K USA, the largest national non-profit greyhound protection organization in the U.S.
For more information, please visit the website grey2kusa.org.
ERIC JACKSON, Cinder Cone Dr NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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