CLOSURE OF PLAINFIELD DOG TRACK PUTS HUNDREDS OF GREYHOUNDS AT RISK

May 02, 2005 - Adoption Groups Throughout New England Facing a Severe Crisis To Save Displaced Greyhounds

Plainfield, Connecticut : The fate of a thousand or more greyhounds is uncertain as a result of the May 14th closing of Plainfield Greyhound Park. Long-term, the closure is welcome news to the greyhound advocacy community, but the short-term consequences of the shutdown puts the lives of hundreds of greyhounds in peril.

In response to the potential crisis, the Greyhound Protection League (GPL) has drafted a proposal to the Department of Special Revenue (DOSR) specifying the minimum requirements necessary to ensure the dogs' safety and well-being while they await placement with an adoption organization.

"The track owner and the State of Connecticut have made millions of dollars off the backs of Plainfield race dogs for decades. They have a moral and ethical obligation to ensure that these dogs find loving homes, regardless of the cost," said GPL President, Susan Netboy. "And we intend to do everything in our power to see to it that they live up to their obligation."

"The Plainfield dog track is what is known as a cheap track that houses greyhounds with no future racing or breeding career in front of them," said New England GPL spokesperson, Melani Nardone. "We are particularly concerned about greyhounds that may be sent "back to the farm" to be disposed of or simply disappear out the back door with no accountability as to their final destination."

The exact number of greyhounds that will need homes is unknown at this time. But whatever the final number, help will be needed from the public and from adoption groups throughout the region. "This may be a monumental task, but we feel confident that this can be done given enough time and the proper resources," said Nardone.

The Greyhound Protection League is committed to monitoring developments and assisting adoption groups in whatever way possible. The group maintains a toll-free number: 1.800.446.8637 for referrals to local adoption organizations throughout the country.

< back