Greyhound protection group Grey2K USA has revealed plans to fly an airplane banner ad above this year’s Kentucky Derby. The group said it wants to inform onlookers regarding Churchill Downs and its online betting service, Twinspires’ ties to and support of US dog racing.
Greyhound racing is currently illegal in 42 US states. However, two tracks in West Virginia are still in operation.
Grey2K USA President and General Counsel Christine Dorchak commented: "The companies that are partnering with Churchill Downs, should ask themselves whether they want to be associated with a demonstrably cruel industry.
"Even the company that owns the last two remaining dog tracks, Delaware North, has publicly announced it is losing money on the activity and supports ending the state mandate for greyhound racing."
Dorchak laid out the potential consequences Churchill Downs could face if the company continues its current support of the industry.
"If Churchill Downs takes its own corporate social responsibility policy seriously, it will stop supporting an activity that is out of step with mainstream American values.
"Churchill Downs and its subsidiary, TwinSpires, are propping up the final remnants of an industry that is responsible for the confinement, deaths and abuse of thousands of dogs. Such greed is unacceptable in today's increasingly humane economy."
Dorchak went on to comment on the rising concerns the organization has toward companies that support dog racing.
She said in closing: "We believe there is reputational risk for any company that continues to align itself with greyhound racing.
"We are especially concerned that TwinSpires is offering races from Agua Caliente on its betting platform. Caliente is a Tijuana-based dog track with no animal welfare standards that is owned by a controversial figure with alleged ties to organized crime."
