Greyhound racing hit by birth control drug scandal

A major drug scandal in UK greyhound racing, involving the illegal sale and widespread misuse of a hormone intended for women, is going unchecked, according to an animal charity.

- JANE DALTON

Rescuers of unwanted racing dogs claim the industry is turning a blind eye to the illegal importation of norethisterone – a drug intended solely for women who want to delay their period – by vets and trainers, who are bringing it into the country without the necessary licences.

Data from the regulator suggests that the drug is almost invariably contaminated, according to Greyhound Rescue Wales, which has reviewed disciplinary findings from the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB).

The hormone is given to female greyhounds to suppress their biological “season”, when rules bar them from being raced for at least three weeks and often up to 10 weeks. However, some within the industry seek to keep the dogs racing year-round to maximise profits.

While this practice can be legal if the drug is prescribed by a vet, importing norethisterone – usually from southeast Asia – has become a cheaper and easier option due to a shortage of legitimate suppliers, according to the charity. Importing the drug, however, requires a licence.

The GBGB maintains that welfare is a top priority in licensed greyhound racing, with “everyone within the sport committed to optimising the care greyhounds receive”.

Greyhound racing has become increasingly controversial in recent years. In December, New Zealand unveiled plans to ban the sport due to high injury rates among the animals that take part.