Tasmania’s greyhound racing industry has been shut down until March 9 after a state-wide kennel cough outbreak forced officials to suspend all racing and training activities.
In a letter to industry participants seen by Pulse on Thursday evening, Tasracing announced the closure will remain in place after the outbreak began in early February and continues to spread rapidly.
“The outbreak is evident state-wide, with all three racing regions having kennels affected,” the notice from chief racing integrity officer Heidi Lester and chief veterinary officer Martin Lenz said.
“At this stage of the outbreak, it is vital to reduce the opportunity for spread of infection.”
The suspension affects all race meetings, trials and training facilities as officials work to contain the highly contagious respiratory infection.
Tasracing has banned the transfer of dogs between kennels and urged owners to avoid taking greyhounds to public areas to prevent the disease spreading to pet dogs in the community.
The racing body warned that healthy-looking dogs may still be in the incubation stage and could spread the infection.
“Be aware that dogs who appear healthy may be in the incubation or early stages of the disease,” the notice said.
Tasracing is developing a staged return plan in consultation with the industry and is considering the financial implications for affected participants.
The outbreak adds to ongoing challenges facing Tasmania’s greyhound racing industry, which is set for a legislated shutdown by 30 June 2029 following continued animal welfare concerns.
While a breeding ban was initially proposed for 1 January 2026, the legislation has been referred to committee, delaying final approval until at least March 2026.
