RSPCA slams ‘dangerous’ dog racing as broadcaster pulls out

Sports Information Services will cease its coverage of racing at the Sandy Lane venue in a move described as “disastrous” to greyhound racing.

The sports broadcaster confirmed to the Racing Post that it will drop Oxford and Suffolk Downs from its schedule from Monday onwards.

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This will effectively end operations at both tracks under its service, with SIS claiming that the decision came as the betting industry braces for changes to betting duty and taxation set out in the Autumn Budget.

It’s unclear how the change will specifically impact the long-term operations of the stadium.

The RSPCA welcomed the news on Thursday (April 2), issuing a statement branding greyhound racing as “inherently dangerous”.

Sam Gaines, head of companion animals for the RSPCA, said: “The uncertainty around greyhound racing at Oxford Stadium is yet another sign that this industry is outdated and unnecessary, with interest clearly waning.

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“Greyhound racing is inherently dangerous for the dogs involved, and the industry’s own data shows that thousands of injuries have occurred in recent years, while hundreds of dogs have lost their lives.

“The risks of suffering, purely for the purpose of entertainment, is simply unacceptable.

“Wales and Scotland have recently taken decisive action to phase out this sport, and we urge the UK Government to follow suit and consign greyhound racing in England to the history books.”