Greyhounds will have to be provided with water during race day kennelling as part of a new Race Day Hydration and Hot Weather Policy.
Under the changes, clubs are responsible for providing a sealed bottle of water that is to be used by a greyhound during kennelling. The quantity of water provided by the club will need to be between 250ml and 500ml.
In addition, trainers and handlers are responsible for providing a water bowl. The water bowl supplied by the trainer or handler must be of a size that ensures it can fit on the kennel door.
The new Race Day Hydration and Hot Weather Policy has been introduced to improve the welfare of greyhounds competing at race meetings. GRNSW has developed this policy to assist industry participants to ensure that greyhounds are properly cared for, especially in Hot weather conditions.
Greyhounds not allowed access to water during kennel confinement suffer from dehydration which is a serious health and welfare concern. Dehydration is also a risk factor associated with hyperthermia, muscle cramping and acidosis (rhabdomyolysis).
The new policy will commence on 2 December 2016 with a trial at The Gardens. Trainer involvement during the trial will be on a voluntary basis only.
Greyhounds that participate in the trial will be permitted to wear American muzzles.
After the trial, GRNSW will review the practices and consider any alterations where appropriate. Following this, the policy will commence at both TAB and Non-TAB tracks across NSW.
Under the conditions of the Race Day Hydration and Hot Weather Policy, greyhounds will have to be provided with water during race day kennelling all year round (including in the cooler months of the year).
The new Race Day Hydration and Hot Weather Policy replaces the Post Race Rehydration and Water Bowls in Kennels Policy.
To assist participants with the changes a fact sheet has been developed by GRNSW, which will be distributed to all tracks and is also available by clicking here. Each club and their raceday staff will also be provided with training on the requirements under the policy and how it is to be implemented.
Click here to view the Race Day Hydration and Hot Weather Policy.
