Extensive support given to retired greyhounds

I WAS horrified to read about the difficulties experienced by China Rose restaurant in South Parade, Bawtry, as a result of alleged malicious and misleading rumours (Yorkshire Post, October 13).

The article reports that it is “notoriously difficult” to re-home greyhounds. As managing director of Owlerton Greyhound Stadium in Sheffield, and also a committee member of the Sheffield Retired Greyhound Trust (RGT), I want to refute this statement – and to take the opportunity to highlight the great work the RGT carries out.

In 1975 the greyhound industry established the Retired Greyhound Trust, which has since homed more than 45,000 dogs. Today there are over 70 branches across the UK, including Gosling Moor Farm in Wortley, Sheffield.

Gosling Moor Farm is jointly funded by Owlerton Stadium, which contributes approximately £150,000 per year through donations and fundraising initiatives. There is no question the sport takes the issue of care after racing extremely seriously. The welfare of the racing greyhound is central to the governing and regulatory body’s responsibilities, and as a result greyhounds are one of the most protected of all canine breeds. I am very proud of the work that the industry and the RGT carries out in looking after greyhounds at the end of their career.

Contrary to what was reported, greyhounds are far from notoriously difficult to re-home. Readers interested in finding out more about the RGT, or indeed adopting a greyhound, can visit: www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk