New Process for On-Track Greyhound Injuries

The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission is implementing a new process that will improve the management of on-track greyhound injuries.

From 1 April 2023, stewards will have the power to direct an injured or ill greyhound to be taken to an off-track veterinarian for follow-up treatment.

What does this mean on race day?

In the event of a greyhound illness or injury, QRIC stewards can now direct greyhound trainers/owners to take your animal to a veterinarian.

Failure to follow these directions could result in financial penalties or licence suspensions.

You will receive additional paperwork to take with you to the off-track vet, and the vet will be required to sign it and send it back to QRIC.

The new process will also mean better injury and treatment information sharing between on-track and off-track vets.

The process will also feed back into improving veterinary services and animal care.
For example, information about what diagnostic testing and follow-up treatment is being done will assist with training and data for continuous improvement into the future.

Stewards orders for Off-track Veterinary Care will be followed up and any participant not providing the information within 48 hours of the required time frame will be contacted and reminded.

After five working days the case will be referred to Stewards to follow up on whether the veterinary care took place and what treatment was given.

The new process will not affect eligibility requirements to the Racing Queensland Race Meeting Injury Scheme (RMIS).

Why has this new process been introduced?

This process which brings Queensland into line with other states provides reassurance that off-track veterinary care occurs.

The Commission has worked with experienced greyhound veterinarians across Australia to develop an injury management system that is consistent across Queensland.

This new process will help improve animal care and reduce delays with dogs being taken to off-track veterinarians.

We will also support racing industry participants to understand and implement the new system with your private, off-track treating veterinarians. 

For further information: Stewards@qric.qld.gov.au.