Greyhound New Zealand has released a statement after a dog suffered what GRNZ described as a “catastrophic injury” at Addington Raceway yesterday.

Greyhound Gary collided with other dogs and tumbled shortly after reaching the lure, having just crossed the finish line.

In a video, the dog can been seen being trampled by four other dogs, which caused a catastrophic injury to his right front leg.

The dog could be seen limping after the fall and was later euthanised at the track.

SAFE spokesperson Will Appelbe said deaths and injuries like this are unavoidable with greyhound racing.

“It’s disgraceful that dogs have to endure this kind of treatment for the benefit of the racing industry,” said Appelbe

A Greyhound New Zealand spokesperson said “in line with its commitment to animal welfare, GRNZ takes every racing injury seriously and all serious injuries will be investigated by the Serious Injury Review Committee which, will include veterinary expertise, and will be reported to the Animal Health and Welfare Committee.”

Several social media comments defended Greyhound racing saying owners of Greyhounds love their dogs.

Greyhound New Zealand said it “funds a rehabilitation to rehoming programme where racing greyhounds who suffer serious injuries are rehabilitated and then rehomed.”

The statement said “in this instance, regretfully rehabilitation was not a viable option and the on track vet recommended euthanasia of the greyhound as the only humane course of action to take.”