Greyhound Raceday Hydration Policy

The Greyhound Raceday Hydration Policy formalises existing race day hydration practices into a single, statewide framework. It does not introduce a new concept of providing water to greyhounds on race day; rather, it standardises practices that have previously operated through steward permissions and exemption-based arrangements for pre-race and post-race hydration.

The policy has been developed to support positive welfare outcomes for racing greyhounds, recognising the importance of appropriate hydration and cooling practices throughout race day operations. It also ensures decisions can be tailored to the needs of an individual greyhound.

The policy outlines approved procedures and responsibilities for participants, clubs, veterinarians and stewards, promoting consistency across Queensland race meetings.

The policy strengthens the framework for steward and veterinary decision-making. It complements existing steward powers, reinforces the role of veterinary advice and enables stewards to direct that water be provided, replenished or removed where required to protect the welfare of an individual greyhound.

Approved procedures, supervised water provision, controlled water sources and documented decision-making will support welfare initiatives while maintaining robust integrity safeguards.

Read the full Greyhound Raceday Hydration Policy

FAQ – Greyhound Raceday Hydration Policy

1. Why has QRIC introduced a Greyhound Raceday Hydration Policy?

The policy has been developed as part of delivery against recommendation #96 from The Next Lap racing review. It formalises and standardises race day hydration practices that have already been occurring at Queensland greyhound race meetings. It provides a clear, consistent, and transparent framework that supports greyhound welfare while maintaining appropriate integrity safeguards.

2. Does this mean greyhounds were previously unable to receive water at race meetings?

No. Greyhounds have previously been able to receive water through steward-approved arrangements and established race day practices. The policy formalises those practices into a single statewide framework so that procedures and expectations are consistent across all Queensland race meetings.

3. Why is raceday hydration regulated/monitored?

Race-day hydration is regulated to ensure water is provided to greyhounds in a safe, consistent and controlled manner while maintaining animal welfare and racing integrity. The policy sets clear requirements for how water may be provided while allowing trainers and handlers to make decisions based on the individual needs of their greyhound, subject to Steward and veterinary oversight where required.

3. What is the primary objective of the policy?

The primary objective is to support positive welfare outcomes for racing greyhounds by establishing clear procedures for the provision and management of water during race day kennelling, post-race recovery, and prohibited substance sampling processes.

4. Does the policy make providing water mandatory?

Not in all circumstances. The policy allows handlers to elect to provide water in accordance with prescribed procedures. However, stewards retain the ability, following consultation with the on-track veterinarian, to direct that water be provided where necessary to protect the welfare of an individual greyhound.

5. Why are there controls around how water is provided?

The controls help ensure that hydration practices are carried out consistently and safely across all race meetings. They also provide integrity safeguards through approved water sources, supervision requirements and documented procedures while still promoting the welfare of greyhounds.

6. Can trainers and handlers still make decisions about their greyhound's hydration?

Yes. The policy preserves the ability of trainers and handlers to decide whether to provide water, where permitted under the policy. However, those decisions must be made in accordance with the approved procedures and any direction issued by the stewards.

7. What role do stewards play under the policy?

Stewards oversee compliance with the policy, supervise water provision procedures, consult with the on-track veterinarian where appropriate, and may issue welfare-based directions regarding the provision, replenishment, or removal of water. The policy complements and supports existing stewarding powers.

8. What role does the on-track veterinarian play?

The on-track veterinarian provides expert advice regarding hydration, cooling, and welfare needs. The veterinarian may advise stewards when additional hydration or other welfare measures may be required for an individual greyhound.

9. How does the policy protect racing integrity?

The policy includes clear procedures for water provision, approved equipment, supervision by relevant officials, and specific processes for greyhounds undergoing prohibited substance sampling. These measures ensure welfare outcomes can be achieved without compromising integrity controls.

10. Does this policy apply at all Queensland greyhound race meetings?

Yes. The policy applies to all Queensland greyhound race meetings and establishes a consistent statewide approach for race clubs, participants, veterinarians, and stewards.

11. What benefits does the policy deliver to participants?

The policy provides greater certainty by clearly outlining:

• when water may be provided;
• who is responsible for supervision;
• approved procedures and equipment requirements;
• the role of stewards and veterinarians; and
• the circumstances in which welfare-based directions may be given.

This promotes consistency and transparency across all race meetings.

12. What outcomes is QRIC seeking to achieve through this policy?

QRIC is seeking to:

• enhance greyhound welfare and hydration practices;
• provide clear and consistent race day procedures;
• support evidence-based veterinary and stewarding decision-making;
• strengthen the framework for welfare-based interventions where required; and
• maintain the integrity and proper conduct of race meetings.

These outcomes ensure that both animal welfare and racing integrity remain at the centre of race day operations.