Veterinary Care at the Track in Dog Racing in the UK
In dog racing in the UK, welfare comes first. Specialist vets at UK greyhound tracks check every runner before, during, and after races, ensuring that racing dogs remain healthy and fit to compete.
Specialist Veterinary Care at the Track
Greyhounds receive the very best veterinary care when at the racetrack. From arrival checks to pre- and post-race examinations, every UK greyhound track employs a specialist vet who understands the unique needs of racing dogs.
They know the nuances of the breed and are experts in greyhound physiology and injury detection, as well as more common medical issues.
Being at the track for every meeting means they get to know the dogs and their connections, building individual knowledge as any practising vet would of their clients.
To see how welfare fits into the race day routine, read A Day in the Life of a Greyhound: Preparing for a Race.
Injury Detection and Reporting
Should an injury or other problem be detected at the track, the vet has a duty to report that to the GBGB and to monitor treatment received whether that be by themselves or the trainer’s local veterinary practice.
This short film from the GBGB shows how dog racing in the UK prioritises welfare, highlighting the role of track vets and other measures that keep racing dogs safe and healthy:
