Big crowds turn out for greyhound adoption day at Wentworth Park

HUNDREDS of pet lovers attended greyhound adoption day in Sydney today - the first of its kind since the NSW government promised to outlaw racing the dogs.

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HUNDREDS of pet lovers attended greyhound adoption day in Sydney today - the first of its kind since the NSW government promised to outlaw racing the dogs.

At least 40 dogs were offered up to new homes at the Wentworth Park event hosted by Greyhounds As Pets and Greyhound Racing NSW.

The event was organised after the NSW government this week refused to back down on its decision to ban greyhound racing after meeting industry leaders.

Sisters Grace and Hope Hill from Towradgi with greyhound Olivia who they decided to adopt. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Crowds at today’s Wentworth Park event. Picture: Jonathan Ng

List of greyhounds available to adopt at Wentworth Park. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Premier Mike Baird and his deputy Troy Grant will pump an estimated $30 million into helping the industry through the ban after meeting with owners and breeders.

Mr Baird said he had no choice but to scrap the sport after an inquiry found up to 68,000 “uncompetitive” greyhounds had been slaughtered in the past 12 years and nearly one-in-five trainers used live animal baits.

NSW natural resources commissioner Dr John Keniry will co-ordinate the end of the industry and guide the distribution of funds.

However, NSW Greyhounds Breeders, Owners and Trainers Association chief executive Brenton Scott insists legal options to fight the ban are still being explored.

Meanwhile, RSPCA Australia and all its state and territory heads have sent a joint letter to Messrs Baird and Grant congratulating them for standing firm on ending greyhound racing.