OPINION

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Greyhound game getting a bad rap

Staff Writer
St. Augustine Record

Greyhound game getting a bad rap

EDITOR: When I was younger, I had the opportunity to work as a trainer's helper with several racing kennels at a greyhound racing track. I also have relatives who have raised racing greyhounds, kept greyhounds as family pets and enjoyed greyhound racing with several generations of my family

First of all, everyone that works with greyhounds absolutely loves them, respects them and treats them extremely well. Trainers spare no expense in feeding the dogs only with healthy and nutritious food, supplemented with vitamins and nutrients as needed. The dogs receive frequent veterinarian care and their health is always monitored and maintained. The dogs exercise and socialize on a daily regular basis and are treated with kindness and love. Their living facilities are not cramped or inhumane and are cleaned on a more regular basis than most people's households.

The dogs are happy, socialized, healthy, well-nourished canine specimens. This all helps to promote effective racing behavior. The dogs absolutely love racing and it is obvious to see that it is a highlight of their day and a most enjoyable part of their life.

These animals are routinely tested and monitored by the gaming commission. Federal and state gambling regulators do not tolerate cheating with gambling. Individuals trying to drug these dogs are usually immediately identified and punished appropriately. To suggest that these dogs are routinely drugged is based on ignorance.

After their racing days are over it is true that the dogs need to find homes. However, these dogs are excellent adoption candidates as they are usually housebroken, crate trained, nonaggressive, healthy, loyal and very loving. It's also pretty cool when your pet is an ex-athlete.

Vote to continue the great family tradition of greyhound racing.

Bernard Borbely, St. Augustine