THREE RACE DOGS DIE AT DAYTONA DOG TRACK

Nov 21, 2003 - Code of Silence Hinders State Investigation

Daytona Beach, Florida - Investigation results provided by the Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering confirm that three Daytona racing greyhounds, Hocus Pocus, Autumn Maze and Devie's Warlock died in early May 2003. The Greyhound Protection League (GPL), a national greyhound advocacy organization filed a complaint with the Division requesting an inquiry into the deaths. It is unlikely that responsibility will ever be determined due to the refusal of witnesses to provide conclusive testimony. However, information provided in a related case which focuses on a wrongful termination claim have brought the following details to light: Hocus Pocus and Autumn Maze were put into a poorly ventilated dog truck where they were immediately overcome by the extreme heat inside the small compartments. Interviews conducted by the State paint a horrible picture of mismanagement and finger pointing. One dog was put back into his kennel crate where it was found dead the next morning. The other greyhound received medical attention too late and also died. The following day, Devie's Warlock dropped dead while being forced to race in a schooling event on yet another excessively hot day. No track veterinarian was available on either day to provide assistance for the distressed animals.

"Once again we see convincing evidence that the industry does not care about the welfare of its race dogs despite what it wants the public to believe," said GPL spokesperson, Lenka Perron. "As long as the code of silence prevails, the pervasive abuse and neglect that infects dog racing will continue, and nothing will get better for these dogs."

Heat stroke can kill within minutes. The dangerously high temperatures and humidity that are routine in Florida exacerbate the risks. These risks, along with the lack of proper medical attention, anger Perron: "It would be unthinkable to confine a race horse to a small, unventilated space after the exertion of racing. Why is the same standard of care and concern not extended to racing dogs? The disturbing evidence obtained from this case suggests that Florida racing greyhounds are nothing more than an expendable commodity."

Industry insiders have privately told GPL that greyhounds frequently die at Florida tracks as a result of the use of dog trucks to contain dogs after racing, that death reports are rarely filed and that the loss of life is considered part of the cost of doing business. GPL contends that this is an unacceptable cost. The organization intends to pursue measures that will force dog tracks to provide a safe, climate controlled after-race holding area at each racing facility.

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