Taking the hare out of coursing

I have no problem with greyhounds competing against each other, or with the camaraderie and mighty craic associated with coursing. What I object to is the use of hares and subjecting them to unnecessary suffering.

Muzzling, unfortunately, has not eliminated the cruelty from the practice. Hares can still be mauled by the dogs, pinned to the ground, forcibly struck by them, tossed about like playthings, or otherwise injured. Film footage has been recorded and is available showing such injury being inflicted. The hare is a brittle-boned creature and its internal injuries cannot heal. Injured hares have to be put down.

Why not replace the hare with a mechanical lure as in the other countries that once permitted the live version?

This replicates all the action and excitement of coursing but without the cruelty.

The upcoming Private Members Bill will focus much negative attention on the greyhound industry and on Ireland itself for allowing a practice banned in so many other jurisdictions. I suggest that before this happens the coursing fraternity consider making a truly sporting gesture.

If Republicans could take the gun out of Irish politics, then surely the “doggie” men can take the hare out of coursing!

John Fitzgerald

Campaign for the Abolition Of Cruel Sports

Callan

Co Kilkenny