Although illegal, live baiting still occurs because there is an old-fashioned belief held by some racing industry participants that it gets greyhounds to run faster.
The RSPCA says – “Live baiting involves small animals such as a rabbits, possums or piglets being used as a lure or bait to train greyhounds to race around a track. ‘Bait’ animals are attached to the mechanical lure and are hurled at speed around the track while greyhounds are released to pursue, catch and maul them. Live baiting may also involve pulling animals on leads/ropes and inciting dogs to maul them. The animals involved experience pain, fear, injury and distress and will eventually die. The same animals may be used repeatedly, suffering a very long and painful death.”Here is recent media coverage about live baiting offences:
- Greyhound Recorder, Selkrig Hit With 12-Year Training Ban.
- ABC news online – Tasmania’s leading greyhound trainer Anthony Bullock given lifetime ban after baiting investigation
- ABC news online – Tasmania’s leading greyhound trainer Anthony Bullock under investigation after release of graphic video footage
- Ch9 TV news Melbourne (VIC) – Veteran trainer and another man suspended amid allegations of live baiting
- Bay 93.9 news online (VIC) – Greyhound trainer suspended amid Lara live baiting scandal
- ABC News Online (SA) – Greyhound trainer bans for live baiting leave SA premier ‘shocked’ after industry assurances
- ABC Radio Adelaide Drive Program (SA) – Three trainers disqualified for life due to live baiting
- ABC Radio Adelaide Late Afternoon Show (SA) – Interview about live baiting
- CH9 TV News (SA) – Investigation underway into live baiting allegations