Greyhound owners in Queensland have come out in force to defend the breed, saying the dogs are not vicious and not to blame for the live-baiting scandal.
About 30 retired greyhounds and their owners walked through Brisbane’s South Bank this morning in a bid to change perceptions.
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Spokesperson for the event Sue Murphy said while the live-baiting scandal did a lot for the wellbeing for animals that were being treated poorly, it raised other issues.
She said their had been an influx of surrendered animals, and organisations were overwhelmed and desperate to find them foster homes.
“Owners of retired hounds want to let the community know that the dogs are gentle animals with a quiet natures,” she said.
“Unfortunately, a lot of people who have not been exposed to these dogs now think the are aggressive.
“Many dog owners also have cats, chickens, and small fluffy dogs which greyhounds live happily with.”
The ABC’s Four Corners aired footage a fortnight ago showing live piglets, possums and rabbits being fixed to mechanical lures before being chased and mauled to death by dogs during training sessions.
Seven Queensland trainers are facing life bans and more than 70 greyhounds were seized by authorities.
Evalyn Holmes-Harycki from the Gumtree Greys Rescue Service said the dogs copped the brunt of criticism.
She said the live-baiting scandal cast an unfair light on those most at risk.
“They are the most beautiful natured dogs that you can get, but you don’t see that because they’re always racing,” she said.
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