A WA racetrack has been closed pending an internal investigation after two greyhounds were euthanised and several more were injured during a meet on Wednesday.
The state of the track is being blamed for the injuries despite a $3 million upgrade in 2024.
An investigation will take place. Getty Images
Greyhounds WA confirmed a change of schedule on their Facebook page, stating it was due to an “ongoing assessment of the Cannington racetrack” and that they would be moving their next meet on Saturday to the Mandurah track.
A Racing and Wagering Western Australia spokesperson said Wednesday’s program was abandoned after race 7 of the scheduled 12, following four on-track incidents.
“During the meeting, two greyhounds sustained injuries and were euthanised on the advice of the on-track veterinarian, while two others sustained hock injuries and received immediate treatment,” they said.
“The independent on-course veterinarian and Racing WA stewards acted to ensure all injured greyhounds received appropriate care and attention.”
They said Racing WA officials were conducting a comprehensive review of those incidents a before any further racing or trialling at Cannington.
“Racing WA extends its sympathies to the connections involved and will continue to ensure the care, safety and welfare of all racing animals remains a priority,” they said.
A report compiled by the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds and published this month revealed that Cannington and Mandurah were the worst in the country for on-track deaths in 2025.