AGC URGES PROPER HANDLING OF GUAM GREYHOUNDS

American Greyhound Council (AGC) Communications Coordinator Gary Guccione has written letters to Guam Governor Felix P. Camacho and E. J. Calvo, general manager of the Guam Greyhound Track, calling for proper handling of the greyhounds displaced by the track’s recent closing.

 

 The letters were in response to recent reports that the Guam track was releasing greyhounds at random without proper preparation and screening of prospective owners.

 

In his letter to Governor Camacho, Guccione wrote, "We emphatically support all efforts to place the retired greyhounds in good homes through credible adoption agencies.  It is essential that the greyhounds in question are sterilized prior to placement to prevent unwanted pregnancies or nefarious efforts to breed these dogs for the sake of profiting."

 

Guccione urged Camacho to make whatever effort is needed toward that end.

 

Writing to Calvo, Guccione noted that U.S. tracks, when faced with seasonal or permanent closings, have assumed responsibility for maintaining the displaced greyhounds during their transition to retirement and adoption.

 

"This is never easy, nor without substantial expense," Guccione said.  "However, doing less would be counterproductive.  Any random placing of greyhounds that results in putting the greyhounds at risk in any manner is simply counterproductive–very bad for the greyhounds, and a bad reflection on the track itself, as well as its management and ownership."

 

A number of adoption groups are working to bring the greyhounds still available for adoption to the U.S. to ensure their welfare while they await permanent adoption.  The AGC has offered its support and assistance.