Greyhound racing is a sport in which greyhounds race after a lure on a track to a finish line. A lure or bait is a mechanical device that is moved around a track at a considerable distance from the dogs and often resembles a hare or rabbit. A dog that reaches a finish line first is the winner. In many countries, greyhound racing is simply amateur and is carried out for pleasure. In the US, UK, and Australia, it is a popular form of gambling, much like horse racing. Contemporary greyhound racing has its origins in racing. In the early 20th century, Patrick Owen introduced the idea of greyhound racing. Subsequently, he built the first loop track in California in 1919.
The greyhounds are kept in paddocks before the start of the race. After the pre-race processes and examinations, the greyhounds are placed in separate compartments in start boxes, called traps. These traps have automatic doors. Greyhounds are provided with water and an open area to walk after the completion of the race. The winner is called to the winner’s circle.
The registration and identification of greyhounds is the responsibility of the National Greyhound Association. It is a non-profit organization that works in North America. Only registered owners can enter into an exclusive agreement with a registered kennel. These kennels are then contracted with various tracks. The World Greyhound Racing Federation (WGRF) was founded in 1969. It is a non-regulatory organization and is committed to providing information and supporting the sport nationally and internationally.
There are certain states, such as California and Maine, that ban greyhound racing. Other states prohibit the use of live rabbits and other small animals as bait for chasing dogs. The way greyhounds are managed and trained is also a matter of debate. Dogs unfit for racing are euthanized or given to laboratories for experimentation.
