33 Greyhounds Found Dead at Ebro Racing Track in Florida-Can we Ban this Now?

At least 33 greyhounds were found dead in their kennels at Ebro Greyhound Park in Florida. It appeared from their condition that they starved to death. Their trainer, Ronald Williams, has been charged with animal cruelty. It is being further investigated to see if there are more victims at his home. Perhaps he thought there was no longer a need to care for these dogs since racing season ended a month ago.

It is not enough that these dogs were condemned to race. It is not enough that they received no love, kind words, or a kiss on their snouts. It is not enough that they were viewed as inventory through the greedy eyes of the trainer and the track. But it appears that after their usefulness ended they were allowed to die slowly of starvation. Perhaps it is cheaper to buy new dogs rather spend time or funds caring for dogs off season.

It is particularly disturbing, though not unexpected, that the track abdicated all responsibility for this. They claim they contracted with Williams to provide for and care for the dogs and are therefore not involved. Really? They have no obligation to research the trainer and/or monitor the terms of the contract? Is their only responsibility to accept their cut of the profits?

I say, we, as a people can do better than asking animals to race for our entertainment. I ask, what about this is a "sport"? I say, we need to demand that the Florida legislature ban dog racing as is the case in many other states. I say - it is enough.