The introduction of the new Australasian Greyhound Rules of Racing on May 1, 2022, bans the use of barking muzzles (anti-barking devices) on greyhounds except under certain QRIC approved circumstances.
Animal Welfare Program Director Mariko Lauber said the QRIC exemptions aimed to promote animal welfare, reduce unmanaged and unmonitored use of anti-barking devices and addresses the underlying causes of excessive barking behaviour.
“All anti-barking devices must meet strict criteria, including allowing dogs to open their mouth sufficiently to pant and drink. The device must not rub or cause pressure, or deprive the greyhound of sensory input,” she said.
“It is important to note that falcon-type hoods and other anti-barking/anti-anxiety devices which deprive greyhounds of sensory input are not QRIC approved and will not be permitted under any circumstances.”
Exemption pathways
Dr Lauber said there were two QRIC approved exemption pathways where participants will be allowed to use anti-barking devices at racing kennels and during greyhound race meetings.
“For those who want to be exempt, go to the QRIC website, and follow the instructions to apply,” she said.
“The first exemption allows participants to use a barking muzzle under a behavioural modification program developed by a Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer or a veterinarian.
“The program is restricted for anti-barking device use for a maximum of 60 minutes per day (max of 30 minutes at any one time); and for a maximum of six months.
Dr Lauber said subsequent behavioural modification program exemptions will be approved at QRIC’s discretion.
“The aim of any behavioural modification program must be to reduce barking so that eventually the anti-barking devices are not required,” she said.
“To apply for a Behavioural Modification Program Barking Muzzle Exemption, complete the form on the QRIC website with your veterinarian or Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer.
“The second exemption pathway allows participants to request an On Track Veterinarian (OTV) to provide approval for the use of an anti-barking device during greyhound race meetings.
“Subsequent approvals will be granted only if the OTV and QRIC Stewards agree it is in the best interest of the greyhound.”
Dr Lauber said the process to apply for a Race Day Barking Muzzle Exemption, also involves filling in a form on the QRIC website.
“Complete Section A on the website, download Section B of the form on the QRIC website, then present the form along with your greyhound wearing the proposed anti-barking device for approval to the OTV and Stewards on Race Day (or before) at kennelling,” she said.
“If approval is granted, the greyhound must be presented to the OTV and Stewards at kennelling for each race meeting while wearing the proposed anti-barking device.
“The new rules of racing also provide a third exemption category for the use of anti-barking devices in public holding areas of trial tracks.
“This approval process requires the trial track manager to approve a single 30-minute use period each time the greyhound attends. Each new session at the track requires a new approval.”
For more information about the exemption process contact the animal welfare team at, welfare@qric.qld.gov.au.
How to become a Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer
The QRIC reasonable definition of “Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer” is a person who can provide evidence they have completed the following:
- Cert III in Dog Behaviour and Training (2254Vic); or
- Cert III in Animal Studies including elective units:
- ACMCAS304 Capture, handle, and transport companion animals
- ACMGAS302 Provide enrichment for animals
- ACMGAS306 Assist with conditioning animals
- ACMSPE304 Provide basic care of domestic dogs; or
- Any other QRIC approved person with relevant experience and/or qualifications.
To register as a Qualified Dog Obedience Trainer, complete and submit the form on the QRIC website.