Three dead rabbits have been seized as part of an animal welfare raid at a Cessnock greyhound training area.
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The discovery comes after the live baiting scandal that came to light in 2015.
Greyhound Racing NSW officials were conducting a targeted operation at the greyhound training facility on Wednesday when they discovered the dead rabbits near the training area.
The RSPCA seized the dead rabbits and took them to an independent veterinary pathologist for post-mortem examination.
GRNSW and the RSPCA have commenced a joint investigation to determine if any criminal offences had been committed under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act or any offences have been committed under the GRNSW Greyhound Racing Rules.
RSPCA NSW chief inspector David O’Shannessy said the RSPCA awaits the results of the post-mortem investigation and cannot speculate at this stage what action might be taken.
If offences under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act can be established, the maximum penalties are $22,000 fine and up to two years imprisonment for an individual.
The property owner has been given an interim suspension on his registration as a greyhound participant.
GRNSW General Manager Regulatory Stephen Dodd said the investigation was a result of extensive intelligence work.
“GRNSW is determined to rid the sport of rogue elements that refuse to abide by the rules of racing and are unwilling to adopt the highest of animal welfare and integrity standards,” Mr Dodd said.
GRNSW encourages anyone to report any allegations of wrongdoing within the NSW greyhound racing industry to the NSW Greyhound Integrity Hotline on 1800 680 174 or submitting it in writing via intelligence@grnsw.com.au.
ORIGINAL REPORT
19 May 2017, 7:12 a.m.
Three dead rabbits were discovered and seized as part of an animal welfare raid at a Cessnock greyhound training area on Thursday.
The discovery comes after the live baiting scandal which came to light in 2015.
Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) and the RSPCA have commenced a joint investigation to determine if any criminal offences had been committed under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act or any offences have been committed under the GRNSW Greyhound Racing Rules. The property owner has also been given an interim suspension on his registration as a greyhound participant.
GRNSW General Manager Regulatory Stephen Dodd said the investigation was a result of extensive intelligence work.
“GRNSW is determined to rid the sport of rogue elements that refuse to abide by the rules of racing and are unwilling to adopt the highest of animal welfare and integrity standards,” Mr Dodd said.
GRNSW encourages anyone to report any allegations of wrongdoing within the NSW greyhound racing industry to the NSW Greyhound Integrity Hotline on 1800 680 174 or submitting it in writing via intelligence@grnsw.com.au
