New law allows greyhounds to finally go muzzle-free

Greyhound owners are celebrating now that their beloved pets no longer have to wear muzzles in public — a move the greyhound racing industry hopes will aid rehoming of retired racers.

Greyhound lovers across Australia are rejoicing now that their beloved pets are no longer required to wear muzzles in public.

Owners and four-legged friends alike have taken to the streets since the new law came into effect on January 1.

Proud owner of Maggie May and Hannah, Holger Schnabel, said that his family were delighted with the news.

BEACH DOG WALKERS FLOUTING LEASH LAWS

WE LOVE OUR PETS MORE THAN FAMILY

“If you meet a greyhound they’re kind and gentle creatures but if you see any dog with a muzzle on it looks dangerous,” Mr Schnabel said.

“Now people can come up and pat the dogs as I’m taking them for a walk and they know they won’t hurt anyone.

Keira, 10, with Hannah, is happy her greyhounds no longer are required to wear muzzles. Picture: Lawrence Pinder

“Greyhounds are about the least aggressive dogs I’ve ever met.”

Greyhound Racing Victoria chief executive Alan Clayton said adoption rates could spike following the change.

“I think the law will help with the public image of greyhounds,” Mr Clayton said.

“Muzzling should be for a particular dog that needs to wear a muzzle.

“There’s no need for an entire breed of dogs to wear one.”

The greyhound advocate said the breed made for a wonderful companion.

“They’re a little bit quirky, a little bit like living with a giraffe,” he said.

“I wish I had a whole farm and I could have 20 of them.”

Although not compulsory, greyhound dogs entering retirement are encouraged to be rehomed with a green collar.

Hannah the hound can finally be muzzle-free. Picture: Lawrence Pinder

ALBERT: A RESCUE DOG WHO WON HEARTS

The green collar program involves rigorous testing to ensure the dog is ready for a domestic life.

“I still think it’s really important for people to want to take a dog with a green collar,” Mr Clayton said.

“The added advantage you get with the green collar is the guarantee that our dogs have gone through rigorous testing to pass.”

Greyhounds must still be leashed at all times in public, and the law only applies to retired pet greyhounds.