A powerful new documentary is set to shake the foundations of Britain's greyhound racing industry, exposing what critics describe as systemic animal welfare failures and institutional neglect.
The Unseen Cost of Entertainment
Going to the Dogs, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sally Rowe, pulls back the curtain on an industry that has long operated in the shadows. Through unprecedented access to trainers, track owners, and animal welfare advocates, the film reveals a troubling pattern of mistreatment and disregard for canine welfare.
The documentary follows several retired racing greyhounds, showing their difficult transition from track stars to family pets and highlighting the thousands of dogs that disappear from the system each year.
Shocking Revelations and Industry Secrets
Among the film's most disturbing findings are evidence of inadequate medical care, poor living conditions, and what animal rights groups call an "epidemic of disappearing dogs." Former industry insiders speak candidly about the pressure to maintain performance at any cost.
One particularly emotional sequence shows rescue workers attempting to rehabilitate injured and traumatised greyhounds abandoned by the racing circuit.
A Sport at a Crossroads
The timing of this documentary couldn't be more critical. With public attitudes shifting rapidly toward animal welfare and several tracks closing in recent years, the industry faces an existential crisis.
Rowe's film doesn't just document the problems—it also explores potential solutions and showcases the dedicated rescue organisations working to give these elegant animals a second chance at life.
As one former trainer admits in the film: "We've been sweeping these issues under the carpet for decades. The public deserves to know the truth about what happens when the cheering stops."
