Petition PE1758: End greyhound racing in Scotland

Overview

The Rural Affairs and Islands Committee is considering a petition which asks for a ban on greyhound racing in Scotland and wants to hear your views.  

What is the petition asking for? 

Petition PE1758: End greyhound racing in Scotland, submitted by Gill Docherty on behalf of Scotland Against Greyhound Exploitation, calls on the Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish Government to put an end to greyhound racing in Scotland. 

The Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) published its report on the welfare of greyhounds used for racing in Scotland on 28 February 2023. 

The Commission had four conclusions that covered:

• the impact of racing on a dog’s wellbeing
• the need for veterinary care to be present whenever dogs are racing
• a recommendation that no further greyhound tracks are permitted in Scotland
• the need for an independent scheme be created to ensure the welfare of dogs

The full conclusions can be read on page 24 of the commission’s report.

Further information about the Committee’s consideration of the petition so far is available on the Committee’s webpages. 

What does the Committee want to know?  

Q1 What is your view about the welfare of greyhounds used for racing in Scotland? 

Q2 Do you agree with the petition which calls for a ban on greyhound racing in Scotland? Please explain your reasons for your answer.

Q3 Do you agree with the recommendations of the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission report? Please explain your reasons for your answer.

How to submit your views

Please submit your views using the online submission form, linked to below.

We welcome written views in English, Gaelic, Scots or any other language. 

The call for views closes on 7 April 2023.