Exemption pathways

There are two QRIC approved exemption pathways for participants to use anti-barking devices at racing kennels and during greyhound race meetings.

1. An exemption under a behavioural modification program developed by a Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer or a veterinarian.

  • The program is restricted for anti-barking device use for a maximum of 60 minutes per day (max of 30 minutes at any one time); and
  • For a maximum of six months.
  • Subsequent behavioural modification program exemptions will be approved at QRIC’s discretion.
  • The aim of any behavioural modification program must be to reduce barking so that anti-barking devices are not required.

To apply for a Behavioural Modification Barking Muzzle Exemption download the Behavioural Modification Program form for your veterinarian or Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer** Registration form to complete. Completed forms should then be attached and submitted via online form.

2. Request On Track Veterinarian (OTV) approval for the use of an anti-barking device during greyhound race meetings.

  • Contact Stewards Administration Team via telephone (1300 087 021) or email and book each greyhound a time for a Race Meeting Barking Muzzle Exemption Assessment by the Stewards providing at least one (1) business days’ notice.
  • Race Meeting Barking Muzzle Exemption Assessments will be conducted by the Stewards on-track at least thirty (30) minutes prior to kennelling at a race meeting.

Participants are to complete the Race Meeting Barking Muzzle Exemption Form and present the form and the nominated greyhound with the barking muzzle they wish to have approved at their allocated timeslot and location.

Participants must fit the barking muzzle to the greyhound in the presence of the Stewards. Stewards will examine the greyhound in the barking muzzle and take four photographs of the greyhound wearing the muzzle.

Stewards will complete an assessment form and inform the participant if the application has been approved.

Where stewards have concerns, they have the capacity to defer the assessment until a QRIC veterinarian is available to support the assessment.

If approved, participants will also be notified in writing and the approval will last 6 months.

The greyhound must be presented to the OTV and Stewards at kennelling for each race meeting wearing the approved anti-barking device.

The new rules of racing also provide a third exemption category for the use of anti-barking devices in public holding areas of trial tracks.

This approval process requires the trial track manager to approve a single 30-minute use period each time the greyhound attends. Each new session at the track requires a new approval.

**Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer

The QRIC reasonable definition of “Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer” is a person who can provide evidence they have completed:

  • Cert III in Dog Behaviour and Training (2254Vic); or
  • Cert III in Animal Studies including elective units:
  • ACMCAS304 Capture, handle, and transport companion animals
  • ACMGAS302 Provide enrichment for animals
  • ACMGAS306 Assist with conditioning animals
  • ACMSPE304 Provide basic care of domestic dogs; or
  • Any other QRIC approved person with relevant experience and/or qualifications.

To register as a Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer Registration form, complete and submit this form.

Behavioural Modification Program form

On-Track Veterinarian Clearance Certificate

Barking Muzzle Exemption for additional persons