Written by Julie Murray, Head-writer, Lowcountry Dog Magazine
Photo by Jeremy Reper
FUTURE OF GREYHOUNDS
One of the issues that has been greatly discussed in the rescue world lately is the passage of Amendment 13 in Florida. This change to the state’s constitution banned greyhound racing and anyone from wagering on live dog races, effective December 31, 2020. As you can imagine, this drew out much discussion and many differing opinions on both sides of the issue. Lowcountry Dog Magazine has worked with the local chapter of Greyhound Pets of America for many years. Their national president, Rory Goree, released an official statement letting people know that GPA was pledging to work closely with the greyhound racing community and various adoption groups to ensure that all
greyhounds currently racing in Florida would have a safe place to go. Goree addressed the issue for those who were fearing an immediate crisis in greyhound adoption. He stated, “There is no immediate urgency to find homes for the canine athletes who will be dislocated in 2020. GPA has been working in the field of greyhound adoption for decades and we know how to prepare for this planned transition out of live racing. When the time comes, all greyhounds will be adopted or returned to their owners.” Fortunately, GPA works with rescues all over the country that will assist with this transition and they have dealt with this before when tracks in Massachusetts and Arizona also closed. lowcountry dog 24
