Wales Bans Greyhound Racing – The First UK Nation to Do So

Greyhound racing is over in Wales. The country has become the first in the UK to outlaw the industry, following mounting pressure from campaigners who have long condemned it as exploitative and cruel.

The ban follows a petition that gathered over 35,000 signatures and a government consultation in which two-thirds of respondents supported a phased ban. Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies announced the decision in the Senedd, stating:

“I believe that now is the right time to move to ban greyhound racing in Wales. I want a ban to come into force as soon as practicably possible.”

The government will establish an Implementation Group to manage the transition, ensuring that dogs currently in the industry are protected.

Why the Ban? 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

Supporters of the ban cite serious welfare concerns, including injuries, overbreeding, and the routine killing of dogs who are no longer profitable. Greyhound racing has been widely condemned by animal advocacy groups, with Dogs Trust stating:

“Greyhound racing is inherently dangerous for the dogs involved, and running at speed around oval tracks causes significant injury to many dogs. In some cases, the injuries are so severe that euthanasia is necessary.”

The industry’s defenders argue that the ban will hurt the economy and could set a precedent for outlawing other animal sports like horse racing (YAY). But public opinion is clear - this is a step forward.

A Global Trend 🌍 

Wales joins a growing list of regions rejecting greyhound racing. New Zealand (Aotearoa) announced a ban last December, which will take full effect by August 2026. Other countries have already turned their backs on the industry, recognising it for what it is - exploitation dressed up as entertainment.

The question now is: when will the rest of the UK follow? Herbivore Club submitted a petition request to the UK wide government last month and it has yet to be approved for signatures.