Greyhounds need you NOW!
The Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill is now live for submissions from the public! This is a huge step for doggos - when this bill passes, greyhound racing in New Zealand will end on 31st July 2026.
But greyhounds need your help. The greyhound racing industry is small, but they have large investments at stake and are doing everything they can to stop this ban. But we know that the average Kiwi cares about the welfare of dogs in this country.
Short submissions of a few caring words, or long and researched submissions, the long doggos of Aotearoa appreciate them all ❤
Submissions close on Friday, 09 January 2026.
Resources: SPCA submission page | Wikipedia: Greyhound Racing in New Zealand Criticism section (good summary, with references and links to reports)
Adopt a greyhound!
Greyhounds are sensitive, caring and wonderful companions.
Contrary to popular belief, greyhounds require little exercise. Though they still need to be walked regularly, they prefer to spend most of their time snoozing. They are well suited to offices and apartments, preferring to communicate with their strong gaze rather than barking.
Although greyhounds are relatively low-maintenance, rescue greyhounds can require a lot of emotional support and presence, and some can be reactive. The outside world may be completely new to them. Inquire with the adoption agency for a greyhound that suits your living situation, including living with children, cats, and other pets.
Adoption agencies.
The greyhound racing industry has established rules that prevent its stakeholders from using “unapproved” adoption agencies. What this means is that all adoption groups are “industry aligned”, meaning they support the industry. Greyhounds as Pets is our recommended pick of the lot.
When adopting you will have to deal with pro-racing people and, at times, their unfortunate views. We encourage you to look past this in the interests of giving a greyhound a new life – and to enrich yours! Once you know… you’ll understand...
Every dog deserves love. If you do not find a suitable greyhound for your situation, please visit HUHA, SPCA, ARAN, or your local dog rescue to give a dog, of any breed, their forever home.
For years the greyhound racing industry and its stakeholders have sought to promote their business, and the adoption process has become a very strong part of the gambling industry’s marketing effort. It’s been effective and captured a few well-meaning people along the way.
It’s a point of view heavily coloured by those who benefit from racing and it’s not one that puts animal welfare first.
As you progress through your adoption journey you will meet people who support greyhound racing… but most will have never read a Stewards racing report. They won’t know how many greyhounds have died on the track lately, or how. They won’t know which trainer carries the highest death toll or number of greyhounds ending up with broken legs. If the discussion about racing comes up, you’ll be hearing the message as the industry would like it heard.
Nevertheless, we recommend you persist with the adoption effort.
It may be uncomfortable at times and you may need to bite your tongue, but it’s worth it – guaranteed!
Foster a greyhound.
All industry affiliated groups rely on foster carers to help greyhounds make the transition to normal dog life.
Fostering can be the most rewarding experience, seeing a greyhound transform from an animal used for racing into an animal that just wants to be a dog! It is one ofthe most rewarding experiences that life can give you, and it can be a lifesaver for a greyhound in need.
Please contact one of the above organisations if you think fostering could be for you. You won’t be able to openly advocate for the end of racing if you agree to partner with the industry as a foster carer, but you will be rewarded with precious moments that you will treasure forever.