The unbridled expansion of dog racing during the 20^th Century spawned a greyhound breeding frenzy that culminated in the death of tens of thousands of uncompetitive greyhounds every year.   As expendable by-products of the racing system, the sacrifice of these young lives was considered acceptable in the interest of state-budget deficits, gambling profits and free market enterprise; but not to everyone . . . 

Founded in 1991, the Greyhound Protection League was the first organization of its kind to break the silence and speak out nationally against the atrocities inflicted upon racing greyhounds.  GPL is a national, non-profit, all volunteer organization committed to protecting racing greyhounds from exploitation, mistreatment and abuse.  Our work is pursued both on the front lines and behind the scenes through the valiant efforts of dedicated volunteers across the country, each of whom is also involved in the hands-on greyhound rescue movement.  

In addition to our educational and investigative work, GPL is dedicated to all aspects of greyhound welfare, including the use of our financial resources for special-needs adoptions and emergency hauling expenses for the relocation of at-risk greyhounds. 

For nearly two decades GPL has been the primary source for well-researched information about the internal workings of the greyhound racing system.  Our in-depth investigations and exposés revealing the seamy underbelly of dog racing have altered the perception that greyhound racing is a harmless spectator “sport” to the blunt reality that greyhound racing has been responsible for incalculable animal suffering and the routine killing of thousands of young, healthy greyhounds each year.   The League’s fact-based revelations about what goes on beyond the glitz and glamour of the grandstand has put immense pressure on the racing industry to reform and focus on the welfare of the greyhound racing dogs who are the very life-blood of industry profits.

Fate has brought us full circle.  In 21^st Century America, it is the racing industry itself that is facing a death sentence for failure to deliver a winning performance in the economic arena.  Changes in societal values, competition from other forms of gaming, media exposés and pressure from the humane community have all taken their toll. 

However, complacency is not in order; numerous tracks and breeding farms remain in operation.  Reduced breeding numbers have not eased the burden on adoption groups and the shuttering of a track puts hundreds more greyhounds at risk.   With accountability for dogs exiting a track remaining the single most elusive element in the racing system, the Greyhound Protection League will continue its vigilance and the pursuit of justice and a decent life for every greyhound. 

For a history of the evolution of the Greyhound Protection League,  click here.

With your support, our efforts to shine a light on dog racing can continue. 

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