A world first whole of life e-tracking system to monitor the location and welfare of all greyhounds registered in NSW is now underway.
Minister for Racing Kevin Anderson said the new technology will allow the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission (GWIC) to track and protect racing greyhounds throughout their careers and into retirement.
“The NSW Government allocated $3.6 million for this revolutionary new technology that puts animal welfare at the heart of the greyhound racing industry,” Mr Anderson said.
“This technology will mean every greyhound registered in NSW is able to be monitored and its whereabouts recorded and registered in real time, at every stage of the greyhound’s life.”
GWIC CEO Steve Griffin said greyhounds will be tracked through their ‘contact’ with GWIC. If a greyhound has had no contact with GWIC throughout the year, the greyhound’s owner will be sent a request to have the greyhound sighted and scanned.
“Racing greyhounds will need to have contact with GWIC at least every 6 months, and pre-racing or retired greyhounds every 12 months,” Mr Griffin said.
“There will be more than 40 locations across the state where greyhounds can be scanned and checked in. Many of these touch points are greyhound racing clubs, major breeder, trainer or educator properties, and industry veterinarians and rehoming organisations.
“Staff will also be able to scan dogs at the track or during kennel inspections to make the process easy for participants.”
Greyhound Racing NSW Chief Executive Officer Tony Mestrov welcomed the announcement.
“This is a significant milestone and I congratulate the Greyhound Welfare & Integrity Commission (GWIC) for their development and implementation of the e-Tracking system, a world-first in welfare,” Mr Mestrov said.
“As a collective industry, we have taken major steps in reform since 2017, and welfare is now at the forefront of everything we do at GRNSW, as evidenced by our rehoming programs, injury rebate schemes, track safety upgrades , and the overall care of our animals.
“The e-Tracking system is another great step in not only ensuring the welfare of all greyhounds in the NSW industry.”
