NSW Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice (2020-376) (NSW)

NSW Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice

under the

Greyhound Racing Act 2017

I, the Hon Kevin Anderson MP, Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation, in pursuance of section 36 of the Greyhound Racing Act 2017, make the following Code with concurrence from the Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW, the Hon Adam Marshall MP.

Dated 29 June 2020

Hon Kevin Anderson MP	Hon Adam Marshall MP
Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation	Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW
Part 1 Preliminary

1              Name of Code

This Code is the NSW Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice.

2              Commencement

This Code commences on 1 January 2021.

The NSW Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice is at Schedule 1.

Contents

Publications details

NSW Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice	Foreword	2
Published by the NSW Government, July 2020
Part 1: Introduction	3
Disclaimer
This publication may contain information about the regulation and enforcement of laws relating to greyhounds
in NSW. It may include some obligations under legislation that the Commission administers. This publication does	Part 2: Nutrition and Hydration	5
not represent a comprehensive statement of the law as it applies to particular situations or to individuals or as a
OBJECTIVE	5
substitute for legal advice. You can seek independent legal advice if you need assistance on the application of the law to your situation.	STANDARDS	5
Copyright information
Except for the NSW Government logo, this copyright work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-	Part 3: Health and Wellbeing	6
Non-Commercial 3.0 Australia License. To view a copy of this licence, visit
by-nc/3.0/au	OBJECTIVE	6
You are free to copy, communicate and adapt the work for non-commercial purposes, as long as you attribute	STANDARDS	6
the work to the NSW Government and abide by the other licence terms. For more information on the NSW Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice visit	Part 4: Greyhound Breeding	8
OBJECTIVE	8
STANDARDS	8
Part 5: Housing and Environment	10
OBJECTIVE	10
STANDARDS	10
Part 6: Transporting Greyhounds	13
OBJECTIVE	13
STANDARDS	13
Part 7: Exercise, Socialisation and Enrichment	14

OBJECTIVE	14
STANDARDS	14
Part 8: Training, Trialling and Racing	16
OBJECTIVE	16
STANDARDS	16
Part 9: Rehoming Greyhounds as Companion Animals	17
OBJECTIVE	17
STANDARDS	17
10: Definitions	18

Foreword

Part 1: Introduction

1.1 Name of the Code	This includes greyhounds that are being kept or have been retained by participants as a
This Code is to be known as the NSW	breeding dog or pet. However, as not all
Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice.	clauses within the code apply to retired greyhounds that are retained by participants
1.2 Objectives of the Code	as pets, those standards within the Code that
The objectives of this Code are to protect	do apply to retired greyhounds are identified

the welfare and promote the wellbeing of with an (R).

The NSW Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice demonstrates the greyhound

greyhounds kept by greyhound racing industry	The Code does not apply to greyhounds kept
participants in NSW and to provide a clear set	by people who are not participants of the

racing industry’s commitment to improving the welfare of greyhounds across

of standards that are recognised and accepted greyhound racing industry. For example, if a

the state. In doing so, it signals to the broader community the collective

by the industry and its participants. registered greyhound is retired and rehomed

resolve of the greyhound racing industry to establish and maintain the

with a new owner who is not a greyhound

1.3 Purpose of the Code racing industry participant, it does not need to

highest standards of welfare and care in Australia. be registered with the Greyhound Welfare &

This Code is made under section 36 of the	Integrity Commission (the Commission). Such
Greyhound Racing Act 2017 (“the Act”).

The Code exemplifies some of the very	On behalf of the Government and Minister	greyhounds are subject to the requirements of
best attributes and behaviours of participants	Marshall, I would like to thank all those

Each Part of the Code is structured to provide the Companion Animals Act 1998, unless

operating in the industry and ensures that all participants and industry stakeholders who

an objective specifying the intended exempt from the provisions of that legislation.

participants, both those who are currently active were involved in the development of the Code

greyhound welfare outcomes the Part seeks to

and those entering into it, are accountable for and who made submissions throughout

achieve, and a series of enforceable standards. 1.5 Commencement of the Code

meeting the standards set by this Code. the consultation process, particularly the

These standards are designed to provide

Greyhound Welfare & Integrity Commission, This Code will commence on 1 January 2021.

certainty and clarity for participants and the

This Code signifies a turning point in the	the Greyhound Breeders Owners & Trainers
industry’s history. In embracing the Code,	Commission in regard to the requirements of

Association, Greyhound Racing NSW,

industry participants as part of the regulation 1.6 Enforcement of the Code

participants are setting the entire industry	RSPCA NSW, the Department of Primary
on a path to renewed faith, support and	Industries and the Greyhound Industry

of the greyhound industry. Persons appointed as Inspectors under the Act

positive recognition from the broader will enforce the Standards contained in the

Animal Welfare Committee. Other standards which relate to operation of

community. In taking this step, the industry is Code on behalf of the Commission.

the greyhound industry are stipulated in the

demonstrating its commitment to the welfare We look forward to working with the industry

Greyhound Racing Rules and policies of the 1.6.1 Minimum space requirements for

of the animals that are at its heart, enabling to ensure the improved ongoing welfare

Commission. This Code is to be read in greyhound housing areas (5.9)

this long-standing sport, its communities and of greyhounds, helping to support the

conjunction with those Rules. Section 38 of the

individual members to thrive into the future. sustainability and longevity of greyhound Excluding circumstances set out by clause

Act provides that in the event of any

racing across New South Wales. 1.6.2, all existing greyhound housing areas

inconsistency between this Code and the

The Code also represents the Berejiklian will be deemed to comply with standard

Greyhound Racing Rules, this Code prevails.

Government’s commitment to assisting	5.9 until 31 December 2030.
the greyhound racing industry, which

The standards in this Code are intended to The construction of any new greyhound

is so important to the lives of so many

individuals and communities across New

promote the welfare of greyhounds and are	housing areas, following the commencement
consistent with the objects of the Prevention	of this Code, will need to comply with

South Wales, achieve long-term prosperity	The Hon Kevin Anderson, MP	of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (POCTA).	Standard 5.9.
and sustainability by setting standards that	Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation

reflect public expectations. The standards in this Code have also been 1.6.2 Inadequate greyhound housing area

developed with reference to the five domains	The deeming provision set out in clause 1.6.1
of animal welfare, which provide a recognised	will not apply in circumstances where the
framework for assessing an animal’s wellbeing.	Commission determines that greyhound housing areas represent a significant
1.4 Application of the Code	welfare or safety risk to greyhounds.
This Code applies to all participants in the NSW	A decision to invoke this clause by
greyhound industry and greyhounds kept by	the Commission will made by the
them, regardless of whether or not the greyhound	Chief Executive Officer and at least
is being kept for the purpose of racing.	one Commissioner.

Part 1: Introduction

Part 2: Nutrition and Hydration

1.6.3 Extension of deeming provision determined in accordance with the Cleaning and food storage

Prior to the expiry of the period set out	Commission’s Compliance & Enforcement	OBJECTIVE	2.6	Food containers and food preparation
Explanatory Guide, which allows for graded
within clause 1.6.1, participants who have	areas must be kept clean. R.
demonstrated a commitment to high	responses according to the nature and	To ensure that every greyhound
seriousness of the breach.
welfare standards and:	receives the food and water	2.7	Food must be stored in such a way as
needed for optimal development,	to prevent spoilage or contamination. R.

a) intend to leave the industry within 1.8 Offence provisions

the following five years; or health and wellbeing.

Section 39 of the Act provides for certain Water

b) have made investment in greyhound provisions of the Code to be identified as 2.8 Fresh, clean drinking water must be

housing areas after 1 January 2017	offence provisions. Only standards 9.4 and	STANDARDS	available to greyhounds at all times. R.
that continue to represent quality	9.5 of this Code, relating to euthanasia of
housing amenity,	greyhounds, are identified as “offence	2.9	Puppies must be provided with access

Food

will be able to apply to the Commission provisions” for the purposes of section 39 to fresh clean drinking water from three

of the Act. 2.1 All greyhounds must be fed at least weeks of age.

for an extension of the deeming provision once daily. Food must be provided in

set out in 1.6.1 for a further period of up to	Section 39 provides an additional mechanism	sufficient quantity and nutritional quality.	2.10 Water containers must be safe for
five years.	through which these Standards may be	Food must be canine-appropriate and	puppies and greyhounds, non-spillable,
Applications for an extension of the	enforced, as the Commission may elect to	meet the daily requirements for the	and hold sufficient water. R.
issue a Penalty Infringement Notice or
deeming provision beyond 31 December	greyhound’s age, size, condition, and

2.11 Water containers must be kept clean. R.

prosecute a person who contravenes one or

2035 will not be permitted. All greyhound	level of activity. R.
housing areas will need to be compliant	more of the Standards identified as
with standard 5.9 from 1 January 2036.	offence provisions. 2.2 Unless directed otherwise by a Note: Participants who keep retired

veterinarian, greyhounds must be	greyhounds are required to comply with
provided with raw meaty bones and/or

1.6.4 Appeal of Commission Decisions those Standards marked with an “R” in

1.9 Definitions chew toys to promote dental health. R.

Any decision by the Commission under relation to those greyhounds.

Terms used in the Code are included in the

clauses 1.6.2 or 1.6.3 may be appealed 2.3 Food must not be allowed to become

Definitions section at the end of this

to the NSW Racing Appeals Tribunal.

document. Defined terms appear in bold	rancid, decayed or insect infested.
when they first appear in the Standards.	Uneaten food must be disposed of

1.7 Breaches of the Code before a fresh meal is provided. R.

In circumstances where a participant is found	2.4	Food fed to greyhounds must not
to be in breach of a Standard or Standards	contain raw offal. R.
within the code, the Commission may take
2.5	Participants must ensure they have
disciplinary action as provided for in section
58 of the Act. Section 59 details the forms of	adequate food available on site to meet
disciplinary action the Commission may take,	the needs of the greyhounds in the
which includes disciplinary action under the	event of an emergency such as illness
Rules of Racing, such as imposing a fine or	or accident. R.
disqualification of a participant.

Section 96 of the Act also allows for the Notice (PIN) for a breach of the Act, which includes the offence provisions specified within this Code.

The action the Commission takes against a participant in response to a breach of a Standard or Standards in this Code will be

Part 3: Health and Wellbeing

Storage, administration and Vaccinations Dental health

OBJECTIVE treatment records 3.11 Unless directed otherwise by a 3.16 Participants must monitor the dental

veterinarian, puppies must not be health of all greyhounds in their care, and

To ensure that every greyhound 3.6 Participants must keep a written

vaccinated before four weeks of age. seek veterinary treatment if required. R.

enjoys optimal health	treatment record for each greyhound
or puppy in their care that includes: 3.12 Participants must ensure that all
and wellbeing.	Grooming

• vaccination records and matching greyhounds in their care are vaccinated

Part 4: Greyhound Breeding

4.5 Neither male nor female greyhounds are Whelping

OBJECTIVE	to be registered for breeding before they
are at least 18 months of age. 4.15 A whelping box or other suitable
To ensure that greyhounds are	whelping area must be available to a

4.6 A female greyhound must not be caused whelping greyhound at least seven days

bred in a safe and responsible	or allowed to have more than two litters	before her estimated whelping date.
manner, resulting in healthy	in any 18-month period.	The whelping box or other suitable
greyhounds and puppies.	whelping area must be clean, safe, quiet,

4.7 A female greyhound must not be caused and separated from other greyhounds.

Part 5: Housing and Environment

Indoor housing Table 1: Minimum space requirements for greyhound housing areas

OBJECTIVE	5.6	All indoor greyhound housing areas must
To ensure that every greyhound	have adequate ventilation. R. Minimum requirements for one greyhound
is provided with housing that	5.7	Where greyhounds are housed in an Enclosure type Minimum width Minimum height Total area
provides adequate space, shelter	enclosed environment in which air

Pen (includes kennel) 1.2 metres 1.8 metres 3.5m2

conditioning and/or fans provide the

and comfort, having regard to only form of air movement: Minimum requirements for two greyhounds

the greyhound’s age, size, and	•	temperature must be maintained at	Pen (includes kennel)	2.4 metres	1.8 metres	7m2
behavioural needs.	between 16C and 26C;
Mating Greyhounds Pen	3 metres	1.8 metres	15m2

Part 5: Housing and Environment

Part 6: Transporting Greyhounds

5.17 Whelping boxes must have sides that 5.24 Greyhounds diagnosed with or suspected 6.4 When being transported by road,

are high enough to allow the dam to exit	of having an infectious disease must be	OBJECTIVE	greyhounds must, unless it is unsafe
readily but also prevent puppies under	separated from other dogs as soon as	to do so, be removed from transport
four weeks of age from falling out. 5.18 A pen housing a whelping greyhound	possible, kept isolated and cared for in a	To ensure that greyhounds	compartments/cages at least every three
suitable area away from all other dogs at	hours and offered an opportunity to
are transported in a safe and
the premises. (The greyhound may need	drink, exercise and toilet.

must contain a fully screened bedding	to be isolated in the care of a veterinary	secure manner that provides for
area to provide physical separation from	6.5	Transport compartments or cages

practice if suitable facilities cannot be their wellbeing.

other greyhounds and provide the dam may only be used for temporary

provided on-site.) R.

with access to an area where her puppies housing of greyhounds whilst attending

cannot reach her. 5.25 Effective biosecurity procedures must be put in place to prevent spread of the race meetings or trials. Greyhounds

STANDARDS temporarily housed in transport

5.19 Puppies from a litter must be actively infectious agent from isolation areas to compartments or cages must be

6.1 Greyhounds must not be transported in

monitored when housed together and other parts of the premises, or to other provided with access to water.

a manner likely to cause injury or undue

if fighting, bullying or other adverse	dogs or people. R.
welfare outcomes are identified, they	stress to the greyhound. R.
must be separated.	Note: Participants who keep retired

6.2 Compartments and cages used for

Pest control greyhounds are required to comply only

transporting greyhounds must be with those Standards marked “R” in relation

Cleanliness and hygiene 5.26 Safe and effective measures must weatherproof, have adequate ventilation to those greyhounds.

be taken to control pests and vermin and be maintained at a comfortable

5.20 Greyhound housing areas and bedding must be maintained in a clean, hygienic	(including fleas, ticks, flies, mosquitoes,	temperature and level of humidity
spiders and rodents) in greyhound	for greyhounds.

and safe condition at all times. R. housing areas. R.

6.3 When using compartments or

5.21 Pens and kennels must be disinfected 5.27 Pest control chemicals must be kept in their original container and used cages for transporting greyhounds,

using a safe and effective disinfectant no participants must:

less than four times per year, as well as:	and stored in accordance with the	•	provide enough space for the
•	after an outbreak of an	manufacturer’s instructions.	greyhound to sit, lie down and stand
infectious disease R

5.28 Greyhounds must be removed from in a natural position;

•	prior to introduction of a	any areas where and while noxious pest	•	where more than two greyhounds are
new greyhound R	control chemicals are being used. R.	transported in the same compartment
•	prior to whelping R	or cage, individually restrain greyhounds during transport;
•

upon the removal of puppies. R. 5.22 Greyhounds must be removed prior to Emergency evacuation procedures

• fix compartments/cages securely to

5.29 Participants must ensure that greyhounds the transport vehicle;

hosing of greyhound housing areas and can be removed safely in the event of

• keep compartments/cages clean; and

must not be returned until cleaning is an emergency. R.

complete and the area is dry. R. • disinfect compartments/cages at least

5.30 Participants must ensure that all	four times each year, or as otherwise
greyhound housing areas have adequate	necessary to maintain good hygiene.

Preventing transmission	fire protection, such as sprinkler systems,
of disease	fire extinguishers, or smoke detectors. R.
5.23 Visitors to all greyhound housing areas must be provided with access to hot and	Note: Participants who keep retired
cold water hand washing facilities with	greyhounds are required to comply only
soap, or hand sanitising stations.	with those Standards marked “R” in relation to those greyhounds.

Part 7: Exercise, Socialisation

and Enrichment

7.6 During each week, puppies aged 8–16 Pregnant or lactating greyhounds Muzzling

OBJECTIVE weeks must be provided with three or

7.9 Pregnant or lactating greyhounds must 7.14 Any muzzle used on a greyhound must

more of the following:

be provided with:  be the correct size and properly fitted,

To ensure that every greyhound is a) lessons in how to walk on a lead and must not cause pain, injury or

a) access to an exercise yard or walked

provided with adequate exercise, whilst wearing a collar;

on a lead for at least 60 minutes distress to the greyhound. R.

socialisation and enrichment to b) chasing games for play; each day, 7.15 Barking muzzles must not be used.

provide for its wellbeing.	c)	training to respond to basic	b)	access to toys at all times, where	Any muzzle used on a greyhound must
verbal commands;

Part 8: Training, Trialling and Racing Part 9: Rehoming Greyhounds as
Companion Animals

8.7 No greyhound under the age of 16 Euthanasia

OBJECTIVE months shall be nominated for a race. OBJECTIVE 9.5 It is an offence for a participant to

8.8 No greyhound under the age of 12 euthanase a greyhound, or cause a

To ensure that the welfare of To optimise rehoming outcomes

months shall participate in a trial. greyhound to be euthanased, other than

greyhounds is protected in for greyhounds that are retired or in emergency circumstances where:

8.9 A greyhound that is presented for a

greyhound training, trialling otherwise unsuitable for racing. a) delaying euthanasia would result

trial or race must be fit and in proper

and racing condition to trial or race. in the greyhound experiencing
unacceptable pain and suffering; and,

10: Definitions

Greyhound: means a greyhound over the age	Dam: means the mother of a litter of puppies.	Greyhound racing industry participant: means	Monitoring or Monitored: means observation
of 16 weeks that is kept by a participant.	any of the following persons, whether or not	and assessment of greyhounds on a regular
Dog breeding stand: means a mechanical	the person is employed or engaged on a	basis, including but not limited to, during
Artificial insemination: means insemination of	device or apparatus used to restrain a female	full-time basis and whether or not the person	routine management activities.
a dam by any means other than natural mating.	greyhound during the act of mating.	receives payment or other consideration for
the activity concerned:	Muzzle: means a wire, plastic or mesh piece
Artificial insemination technician: means a	Disinfectant: means a chemical used on	of equipment that is designed specifically to

person registered as an artificial insemination	an inanimate object or surface to destroy	•	a person who owns, breeds or	cover the nose and jaw area of a greyhound,
technician under the Greyhound Racing	micro-organisms that may cause harm	keeps greyhounds,	and does not restrict normal and necessary
Act 2017.	to greyhounds.	•	a person who trains greyhounds,	behaviour such as panting and drinking.
Aversive substances or devices: means	Euthanasia: means the humane destruction	•	a person who handles greyhounds at	Noxious: means harmful or injurious to the
a substance or device used to deliver an	of a greyhound by a veterinarian using a	a greyhound race or trial,	health or well-being of greyhounds or humans.
unpleasant stimulus intended to suppress or	rapid intravenous injection of concentrated	•	a person who acts as a bookmaker or
diminish an unwanted behaviour, such as an	barbiturate solution. Euthanasia may only	bookmaker’s clerk in connection with	On-Track Veterinarian: means a veterinarian
electric shock, or an unpleasant noise or smell.	be performed by a person who is not a	greyhound racing,	employed by the Commission in attendance
veterinarian in exceptional, emergency	at a greyhound race meeting.
Barking muzzle: is a muzzle designed to	circumstances and in such circumstances,	•	a person who provides such health
restrict a greyhound’s ability to bark.	must be performed using humane methods.	services to greyhounds as a prescribed	Owner: means the person registered with the
by the regulations,	Commission as the owner of a greyhound.
Bed: means an impervious structure used	Enclosure: means an area fully secured by	•	any other person who is of a class of
by a greyhound to rest or sleep in.	Participant: See Greyhound racing
fences or barriers designed to prevent the	persons associated with greyhound racing
escape of greyhounds.	industry participant.
Bedding: means the material used to line	that is prescribed by the regulations for the
a bed to provide comfort and warmth to	Enrichment: means practices that expose	purposes of this definition.	Pen: means a structure designed to house
a greyhound.	greyhounds or puppies.

greyhounds to situations or activities that	Handling: means any physical human contact
help meet their physical and psychological

Biosecurity procedures: means practices with a greyhound, including grooming, patting/ Puppy: means a greyhound aged under

needs, including any enrichment requirements

adopted to minimise the risk or spread stroking, providing exercise, socialisation and 16 weeks.

outlined in this Code.

of disease. These can include effective enrichment, and carrying out of a physical

Racing: means to run swiftly or to compete

disinfection or containment of people, animals, health examination.

Exercise: means any physical activity of in a greyhound race event.

equipment, materials or other contaminants	greyhounds that is designed to meet their
within the isolation area.	Heritable disease or defect: means a genetic

physical and behavioural needs.	trait that causes or has potential to cause	Registered: means registered under the
Greyhound Racing Act 2017.

Bullring: means a circular area used for	Exercise, Socialisation and Enrichment	significant adverse health or welfare issues
educating and training greyhounds.	in affected greyhounds or their progeny.

Plan: means a documented plan prepared	Regulation: means the Greyhound Racing
by a participant detailing how the exercise,	Regulation 2019, and any other Regulation

Cage: means a structure designed to Humane euthanasia: means euthanasia where

socialisation and enrichment needs of the made under the Greyhound Racing Act 2017.

temporarily contain greyhounds. the greyhound is rendered immediately

greyhound/s in their care will be met. unconscious and does not regain Rehoming: means transfer of a greyhound

Code: means this Greyhound Welfare Code consciousness before death.

of Practice. Exercise yard: means an enclosure in which to a person who is not a greyhound racing

one or more greyhounds may be kept for Kennel: means a pen designed to house industry participant.

Commission: means the Greyhound Welfare	several hours at a time for the purpose	a greyhound, often in a series of adjacent	Retired greyhound: means a greyhound which
& Integrity Commission (GWIC).	of exercising.	pens designed to house multiple greyhounds	is registered with the Commission as retired
or puppies.
Companion animal: means a pet kept for	Galloping run: means an enclosure along which	from racing and/or breeding.
a person’s company. Companion animals	greyhounds can run.	Litter: means all offspring born dead or alive	Sclerosing agent: means a chemical irritant
must be registered under the Companion	from a single whelping.
Animals Act 1998.	Greyhound housing area: means all pens,	which is injected into an injured ligament,
kennels, cages and enclosures used to	Mating: means the physical act of copulation	tendon or bone injury to harden tissue to
Compartment: means an enclosure	house greyhounds, being areas where	between a male and a female greyhound.	create scar tissue.
within a vehicle or trailer designed for	the greyhounds sleep, eat or exercise.
Slipping track: means a straight enclosure
transporting greyhounds.	Mating greyhounds pen: means an enclosure
in which greyhounds are kept while mating.	along which greyhounds can run.
10: Definitions
Socialisation: means interaction between	Veterinary treatment: means

a greyhound and other animals (including	(a)	medical treatment of a prophylactic
other greyhounds) and humans to make	or therapeutic nature carried out
the greyhound suitable for life as a	upon the animal by, or in accordance
companion animal.	with directions given in respect of the
Spelling/spelled: means a period of rest.	animal by, a veterinary practitioner, or
(b)	surgical treatment of a prophylactic
Steward: means a person employed by the
Commission as a Steward.	or therapeutic nature, or sterilisation, carried out upon the animal by a
Surface: includes any texture within a housing	veterinary practitioner, or
pen or crate for the purpose of enrichment.
(c)	a veterinary diagnostic procedure
For example hard floors, soft bedding,
newspaper, artificial grass or turf.	carried out on the animal by a veterinary practitioner, or
Tethered or tethering: means securing a
(d)	a veterinary consultation undertaken
greyhound to an anchor point for the purpose
of confining it to a desired area.	in respect of the animal by a veterinary practitioner, or
Training: means to teach, educate and/or
(e)	medical care given by a veterinary
instruct a greyhound in preparation for racing.
practitioner to an animal for an illness
Training facilities: means a bullring, galloping	or injury.
run, slipping track, trial track and any other

facility used for the purpose of training	Veterinarian advice: means advice provided
greyhounds.	to a participant by a veterinarian.
Transfer or Transferred: means to change the	Weaned: means a greyhound puppy that
ownership of a greyhound.	no longer receives a milk diet provided by its mother or from an artificial source.
Trial or Trialling: means to cause a greyhound
to run in race-like conditions, whether alone or	Weatherproof: means protection from the
with other greyhounds, at a licensed race or	wind, rain and extreme temperatures, to
trial track, in pursuit of a mechanised lure.	safeguard the welfare of greyhounds in a greyhound housing area.
Trial track: means any premises (other than a
licensed racecourse) held out by the proprietor	Whelping: means the process of giving birth
as being available for the purpose of enabling	to greyhound puppies or “whelps”. The term
greyhounds (other than those owned by or	“whelp” refers to a newborn greyhound puppy
leased to the proprietor) to compete in trials	that lacks the ability to see, hear, or regulate
or be trained in racing, and includes such other	its body temperature. Whelps need to be
premises as are prescribed by the Greyhound	nursed by their mother until weaning.
Racing Regulation 2019.	Whelping box or whelping area: means
Veterinarian: means a veterinary practitioner	housing for a greyhound going through
registered under the Veterinary Practice Act	whelping and her puppies up to 16 weeks
2003 (NSW).	of age.
Whelping greyhound pen: means an enclosure
designed to house a dam and her litter of puppies over the age of four weeks.

NSW Greyhound Welfare

Code of Practice

May 2020

vaccination certificates; R from the age of 6–8 weeks, and that 3.17 Participants must ensure that the

STANDARDS • internal and external parasite control vaccinations are kept up to date. R. greyhounds in their care are maintained

(e.g. fleas, ticks or heartworm); R 3.13 Unless a veterinarian has provided in a good and clean condition. R.

Monitoring greyhound health	•	any veterinary treatment administered	contrary advice in writing, greyhounds	3.18 Participants must check the toenails of
to the greyhound, including the name	must be vaccinated against:

3.1 Participants must inspect greyhounds all greyhounds in their care regularly

of the veterinarian prescribing the

in their care at least twice a day. R. • Distemper virus R and if necessary, trim them to

treatment and the name and signature prevent overgrowth. R.

• Parvovirus R

of the veterinarian or other person

Veterinary care administering the treatment. R. • Canine Adenovirus R

Note: Participants who keep retired

3.2 Participants must ensure that they • Parainfluenza virus R

3.7 When a greyhound is sold, rehomed, greyhounds are required to comply only

have reliable access to a veterinarian	or otherwise transferred to a different	• Bordetella bronchiseptica. R.	with those Standards marked “R” in relation
(or veterinarians) capable of providing	person, the participant transferring the	to those greyhounds.

24-hour veterinary advice in regard to	greyhound must supply the treatment	Worming and parasite
all greyhounds in the participant’s care.	record relating to the greyhound to the
new custodian. R.	management

3.3	Veterinary treatment must be
provided to a greyhound or puppy 3.14 Participants must administer an

3.8 Any medications prescribed by a

where necessary. R. effective internal and external parasite

veterinarian for a greyhound must	control program (e.g. gastrointestinal
be administered in accordance with

3.4 Any directions of a veterinarian in relation worm, heartworm, ear mites, fleas and

veterinary directions. R.

to treatment of pain, injury, ill health,	ticks) which is age appropriate, to all
distress or post-surgical care must	greyhounds in their care. R.

3.9 Medications, treatments, or supplements

be followed. R. must be labelled clearly and kept in their 3.15 Worming and parasite treatment must

original container or packaging. be used and stored in accordance with

Sclerosing agents	3.10 All expired medications, supplements	the manufacturer’s instructions or at the direction of a Veterinarian. R.
3.5	Sclerosing agents must not be	and injectable substances must be
administered to greyhounds. R.	disposed of according to relevant
legislative requirements.
or allowed to have more than three
litters, without the prior approval of 4.16 After whelping is complete, the dam and
STANDARDS	the Commission.	her puppies must be closely monitored to ensure the puppies are feeding normally
Suitability for breeding	and maternal acceptance has been

Natural mating firmly established.

4.1	Participants must obtain from a	4.8	Natural mating pairs must be physically
veterinarian a written certification	separated from other greyhounds. 4.17 The whelping area must be cleaned

that a greyhound is fit to breed before and disinfected within 24 hours of the

the greyhound may be registered	4.9	If the female greyhound is being unduly	completion of whelping.
for breeding.	harassed by the male greyhound, they must be separated immediately.

4.2	Participants must not allow breeding	Lactating
between greyhounds that are closely	4.10 A male greyhound must not be put with	4.18 Dams must be examined twice a day for
related to each other, such as father-	more than one female at any one time for	mastitis during the first two weeks post-
daughter, mother-son, or brother-sister.	the purpose of natural mating.	whelp, and veterinary treatment sought
Second degree matings (for example,
where mastitis is present.

4.11 After mating, both greyhounds must

grandfather and granddaughter) are not

be physically separated, assessed for

recommended without appropriate prior 4.19 Participants must seek veterinary advice

signs of injury, and veterinary treatment

expert advice. in relation to any puppies which are not

provided if necessary. feeding properly, or do not gain weight.

4.3 A greyhound must not be involved in

4.12 Dog breeding stands must not be used

breeding if it has been diagnosed by a

in mating.

veterinarian as having a heritable disease	Puppies
or defect, or there is a reason to believe	4.20 Unless directed by a veterinarian, puppies

that the greyhound has a heritable	Artificial insemination	must not be sold, leased or otherwise
disease or defect.	transferred before eight weeks of age.

4.13 Artificial insemination must only

4.4	Where a greyhound is suspected of	be conducted by a veterinarian or
having a heritable disease or defect,	a registered artificial insemination Note: Participants who keep retired
the participant must seek veterinary	technician. greyhounds are required to comply only

advice to:  with those standards marked “R” in relation

4.14 Surgical artificial insemination can only to those greyhounds.

•	diagnose the disease or defect and	be performed by a veterinarian using
provide any required treatment;	general anaesthetic, with appropriate
•	protect the on-going welfare of the	pain relief during and post-surgery.
affected greyhound;
•
prevent further propagation of the greyhound population.
• effective air cleaning and filtration

must be in place; and Minimum requirements for whelping greyhounds

STANDARDS	•	a power back-up and effective alarm	Whelping box or area for dam	A whelping box or other area used for whelping must
system must be installed and available	and litter of pups aged up to	be large enough for the dam to lie comfortably while
Construction of housing pens,	for use in the event of power failures	4 weeks	whelping and accommodate the dam and her puppies
kennels and yards	or breakdown.	for the first four weeks after whelping.

5.1	All enclosures used to keep greyhounds	5.8	Where greyhounds are housed indoors,	Whelping Greyhounds Pen	For a dam and litter of puppies aged	15m2
must provide at least enough space for	light cycles must be as close as possible	(includes kennel)	over 4 weeks.
each greyhound to feed, sleep, sit, stand,	to natural conditions.
lie with limbs extended, stretch and	Whelping greyhounds housing	One dam and her litter of pups aged over	30m2
move about. R.	pen (includes kennel)	8 weeks require an additional 15m2 of space.

Greyhound housing area

5.2	Greyhounds must be securely confined to	space requirements
prevent their escape from the property	Housing and Environment	Tethering

5.9 Unless directed otherwise by a

at which they are kept, and prevent 5.10 Greyhound housing areas must provide 5.13 Greyhounds must be supervised

unauthorised persons gaining access to veterinarian, greyhound housing

greyhounds adequate protection against while tethered. R.

the greyhounds. Unless the greyhound is	areas must meet the minimum space
requirements outlined in Table 1. extreme temperatures, direct sunlight,

under supervision, there must be at least	humidity, dampness, persistent loud	5.14 Greyhounds must not be tethered
two barriers between a greyhound and	noises, light pollution, noxious odours	for more than two hours per day. R.
escape from the property at all times. R.	and draughts. R.
5.3	All greyhound enclosures, housing	Housing greyhounds for breeding

5.11 While in outdoor yards and other

and sleeping areas must be designed,	enclosures, greyhounds must have	and whelping
constructed and maintained in a way that	access to shelter from rain, sun and	5.15 No female greyhound which is near or
is safe and provides for the well-being	extreme temperatures. R.

of greyhounds. R. in season is to be housed with a male greyhound six months of age or older

5.4	Any security measures installed in or	Sleeping areas	that has not been desexed. R.
around greyhound housing areas must

not prevent easy access to greyhounds,	5.12 Areas where greyhounds sleep must:	5.16 Where used, a whelping box must be large enough for the dam to lie
or efficient removal of greyhounds in the	a)	include a raised bed or wooden

comfortably while whelping and to

event of an emergency. R.	pallet, which is large enough for the
greyhound to lay down completely accommodate the dam and her puppies

5.5	Vehicles, caravans, trailers, portable	stretched out on;	for the first four weeks after whelping.
crates and the crawl space under any

b) be equipped with bedding that is

dwelling must not be used as long-term

housing for greyhounds. warm, soft and dry; and made of
materials that are safe for greyhounds
and puppies; and,

c) afford each greyhound privacy from

other greyhounds while sleeping.

this is beneficial to the greyhound. not restrict normal behaviour such as

d) exposure to a variety of surfaces; panting or drinking. R.

STANDARDS e) exposure to new experiences; Greyhounds in training or racing 7.16 Greyhounds must not be muzzled for

7.1	All greyhounds, including puppies from	f)	a variety of toys;	7.10 Greyhounds that are in training or	more than 60 minutes at a time, and for
the age of 3 weeks, must be provided	no more than two hours in a 24-hour

g) travel in cars or trailers; racing must be provided with:

with daily exposure to humans through period, unless the greyhound is:

h) exposure to different levels (such

gentle handling. R. a) at least 30 minutes of free exercise a) being walked in a public place; R

as walking up and down stairs). each day, in the form of either free

7.2 All puppies and greyhounds older play outside the housing area, or b) being transported in a vehicle

7.7 Puppies aged 8–16 weeks must be

than 8 weeks of age must be being walked on a lead, or trailer; R

provided with regular contact with, housed in groups or pairs, unless

c) in race day or trial kennels; R

and exposure to, other vaccinated directed otherwise by a veterinarian. b) access to toys.

dogs that are compatible. d) acclimatising to a new environment; R

Greyhounds older than 16 Spelling, breeding and retired e) subject to a dangerous dog order

7.3 Participants must provide greyhounds made under the Companion Animals

in their care with opportunities for weeks which have not yet greyhounds Act 1998; R or

expression of normal canine behaviours,	commenced training	7.11	All greyhounds which are being spelled	f)	under written direction by a
to prevent stress and anxiety. If a	or bred or which are retired must be

7.8 Greyhounds older than 16 weeks which veterinarian; or the Commission. R.

greyhound shows signs of stress or	provided with the following activities
anxiety which do not resolve quickly,	have not yet commenced training for

for a minimum of 60 minutes each day: 7.17 Greyhounds under the age of nine

racing must be provided with:

or exhibits stereotypic behaviours, months must not be muzzled at any

a) exercise in an area outside the

participants must seek veterinary	a)	access to a secure area outside of	greyhound housing area, either	time, except:
treatment. R.	the greyhound housing area for play,	through walking on a lead or	a) as part of the education process

for a minimum of five hours each day; access to an exercise yard; and then only whilst in the presence

Puppies aged 0–8 weeks of the participant, R

b) interactive play or obedience training b) access to toys. R.

7.4	Each day, puppies aged 0–8 weeks must	each day; and,	b)	while being transported in a vehicle
be provided with:

Exercise, socialisation and or trailer; R or

c) each week, two or more of the

a) access to normal puppy activity and c) at the written direction of a

following - enrichment plan

play with its mother and littermates; b) exposed to a variety of surfaces; and, veterinarian. R.

– reward-based training; 7.12 Participants must have a written plan

7.18 Any veterinary direction in relation to

– walking on a lead; detailing how the Exercise, Socialisation

c) a variety of toys. and Enrichment standards in this Code muzzling of a greyhound that extends for

– travel in cars or trailers;

will be met for the greyhounds in longer than 6 months must be reviewed

Puppies aged 8–16 weeks	–	racing-related activities (such as	their care.	by a veterinarian within six months from
access to starting boxes, circular	the date that the direction was issued. R.
7.5	Puppies aged 8–16 weeks must be	training facilities, straight tracks,	7.13	An Exercise, Socialisation and Enrichment
provided with:	lures or race-day cages).	Plan may be temporarily varied or
suspended where a greyhound is Note: Participants who keep retired

a) a minimum of one hour per day to run

undergoing veterinary treatment and greyhounds are required only to comply

or play within a secure area outside of with those standards marked “R” in relation

the greyhound housing area, and b) access to toys for interactive play.	requires rest or rehabilitation as part
of its treatment. to those greyhounds.

8.10 Greyhounds must be presented for STANDARDS b) a veterinarian has been consulted

examination by an On-Track Veterinarian

STANDARDS but is unable to attend in a timely

prior to starting in a race. Retirement and preparation manner, and,

Training and trialling facilities of greyhounds for rehoming

8.11 A greyhound must not participate in a c) transporting the greyhound to a

8.1	All training facilities, trial tracks and	race or trial on consecutive days.	9.1	Where a greyhound owner does not wish	veterinarian would unreasonably
equipment used in the training, trialling	to retain a greyhound, the owner must	prolong its suffering; and,

8.12 A female greyhound must not participate

and racing of greyhounds must be ensure, as far as is reasonably possible, d) the euthanasia is performed using

in or attend a race or trial if she is or is

appropriately constructed, maintained, that the greyhound is prepared for

suspected of being pregnant or in season. humane methods. R.

and fit for purpose, and supervised at rehoming as a companion animal. R.

all times when being used. 8.13 A greyhound which has whelped a litter Note: Participants who keep retired

must not participate in a race or trial until at Requirements for rehoming greyhounds are required to comply only

Training methods least ten weeks after the date of whelping.

of greyhounds with those standards marked “R” in relation

8.2 Training of greyhounds must be

8.14 A greyhound which has mated or had semen drawn must not participate in a to those greyhounds.

based on positive reinforcement and	9.2	Greyhounds must be desexed prior to
the use of reward-based methods.	being rehomed as a companion animal. R.

trial or race until at least two days after

8.3	Teaching, training, and all other	the mating or drawing of semen.	9.3	Participants must not transfer a
interactions with greyhounds,	greyhound to a person who is under

8.15 Any injury suffered by a greyhound

must be kind and humane. the age of 18 years. R.

during a trial must, as soon as practicable,

8.4	Aversive devices or substances must not	be reported by the participant to	9.4	It is an offence for a participant to
be used in the training of greyhounds.	the attending steward, if the trial is	transfer a greyhound in circumstances
conducted at a licensed racetrack, or to	where the participant knows, or ought to

Walking machines	the Commission if no steward is present.	know, or has reason to believe, that the
If the trial is conducted at a registered	greyhound may be euthanased. R.

8.5	A walking machine must only be
used where:  trial track, the injury must be reported to the trial track proprietor.
a)  it is used in conjunction with other

forms of exercise; 8.16 Any injury suffered by a greyhound

during a race must be reported by the

b) it is being supervised during use;

participant to the attending steward

c)	the greyhound has been behaviourally	and On-Track Veterinarian.
conditioned to willingly use a walking

machine; and 8.17 Any request made by a steward or On-Track Veterinarian to seek veterinary treatment for

d)	the greyhound shows no signs of
ongoing reluctance, fear or distress a greyhound must be followed.

while using a walking machine.

Note: Participants who keep retired

Greyhound trialling and racing greyhounds are required to comply only
with those standards marked “R” in relation

8.6	Greyhounds shall only participate in trials	to those greyhounds.
or races that are conducted at a registered trial track or licensed racecourse.