Greyhound Racing in Tasmania Halted Amidst Kennel Cough Outbreak
The Tasmanian greyhound racing industry has been brought to a standstill following a widespread outbreak of kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection. TasRacing, the state’s governing body for the sport, confirmed the infection is in its “rapid spread stage” and has been detected in kennels across the entire state, affecting all three racing regions.
In response to the escalating situation, TasRacing has cancelled all upcoming trials and races. Furthermore, training facilities are temporarily prohibited from use until March 9. The decision was made to bolster biosecurity measures and minimise the risk of further transmission.
“To enhance biosecurity and reduce the risk of infection spread, it is not considered appropriate at this time to conduct race meetings or trials,” a TasRacing notice stated. The outbreak, which reportedly began in early February, has prompted the industry body to develop a phased plan for its return. This plan will be formulated in consultation with industry participants, and any rescheduling of feature races will be communicated in due course. TasRacing has also indicated that it is actively considering the financial implications of the suspension for both the industry and individual participants.
Claire Robins from Greyhounds Tasmania voiced the support of trainers for the suspension, emphasising the paramount importance of animal welfare. “We’re working with our veterinary partners to ensure dogs are getting the best care possible, as this particular illness can develop into severe lung infections very quickly,” she commented.
Assessing the Impact: Health and Welfare Concerns
Martin Lenz, TasRacing’s chief veterinary and animal welfare officer, stated that it is currently too early to definitively confirm any fatalities directly attributable to kennel cough. To ascertain the precise causes of death, TasRacing has commissioned independent post-mortem examinations. Dr Lenz clarified that kennel cough is rarely fatal on its own, typically indicating an underlying or secondary health issue.
Andrew Jenkins, TasRacing’s chief executive officer, assured stakeholders that the organisation is committed to close collaboration with all parties involved and will maintain open communication throughout the management of the kennel cough outbreak. He highlighted the critical role of the restrictions implemented in collaboration with participants to prevent the spread of the infection to the broader domestic dog population. “The manner in which they have embraced the extensive restrictions shows just how much they love their racing animals and the priority they place on animal welfare,” Mr Jenkins added.
Understanding Kennel Cough and Prevention Measures
Kennel cough is a common and rapidly spreading respiratory illness in dogs, caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria affecting the animal’s respiratory tract. Key symptoms include a distinctive hacking cough, sneezing, and discharge from the nose or eyes.
TasRacing has issued urgent advice to industry participants, urging them to:
- Avoid transferring dogs between kennels.
- Isolate any greyhound exhibiting symptoms of kennel cough.
- Refrain from taking greyhounds into public areas.
- Be vigilant, as seemingly healthy dogs may be in the early stages of infection.
Owners are strongly advised to seek immediate veterinary attention if their dog displays severe symptoms or experiences rapid deterioration in their condition. The cancelled race meetings were scheduled across Hobart and Launceston, with seven events planned during the suspension period.
Broader Industry Challenges: The Shadow of a Potential Ban
This kennel cough outbreak occurs against a backdrop of significant uncertainty for the Tasmanian greyhound racing industry. Just months ago, the state’s lower house approved a bill proposing a ban on greyhound racing, slated to take effect from June 2029, pending approval from the upper house.
The industry is actively campaigning against this impending ban, recently launching an advertising campaign targeting Premier Jeremy Rockliff regarding assurances made prior to last year’s state election. Meanwhile, a parliamentary committee is undertaking an examination of the industry’s transition plan.
Concerns have also been raised by Racing Integrity Commissioner Sean Carroll regarding greyhound breeding data since the announcement of the potential shutdown. During a recent hearing, Mr Carroll noted 15 registered breeding attempts in the preceding four months, suggesting the industry is reaching unsustainable levels.
“The industry is approaching and in some areas has reached a tipping point where the number of greyhounds exceeds system’s capacity in responsibly managing and rehoming and supporting them,” Mr Carroll stated. He elaborated that when scale outstrips capacity, even dedicated participants face immense pressure, leading to strained resources, overcrowded kennels, congested rehoming pathways, and a diminished capacity to safeguard animal welfare.
A proposed breeding ban, initially intended to commence on January 1, did not pass the upper house last year, with members opting for further committee examination. The industry disputes claims that breeding has increased since the ban was announced. Luke Gatehouse, head of the newly formed Greyhounds Tasmania, reported only two breeding services in January, challenging the narrative that the industry has rushed to breed more dogs in anticipation of legislative changes.
