New laws free retired greyhounds from muzzles

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New state laws liberating pet greyhounds from wearing muzzles in public are welcomed by Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA).

Chief Racing Officer Charlotte Mills said the racing community was pleased with the changes, which support RWWA’s goals for greyhound welfare and upholding the reputation of the breed.

“Until now, greyhounds who were retired from racing had to wear muzzles when they were out and about in the community,” she said.

“Pet greyhounds were only allowed to be muzzle free in public after passing an approved training program.

“We know greyhounds are sociable, adaptable and make wonderful pets so we’re glad compulsory muzzling has been dropped but we will continue our responsible rehoming practices.”

RWWA’s Greyhounds as Pets (GAP) was the only rehoming group in Western Australia able to do the training program to grant green-collar, muzzle-free status under the previous regulations.

“GAP will continue the temperament assessment and training programs which are vital to ensuring greyhounds are matched with suitable homes and are well-prepared for the move from racing to life as a pet,” Charlotte said.

“We want to set greyhounds up for success with their new families and make the transition as smooth as possible.”

The requirement for greyhounds to be on a leash and under the control of a person capable of managing the dog in public remains in place. This includes dog exercise areas.

The legal changes, more widely known as Stop Puppy Farming legislation, only apply to greyhounds that have been retired under the RWWA Rules of Greyhound Racing.

Greyhounds that have not retired from racing are still required to wear a muzzle when racing or in a public place.