TUS LEADS THE PACK WITH GREYHOUND INDUSTRY EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES

GRI

The Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), in collaboration with Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI), has announced the launch of two courses designed to advance education, professional standards and animal welfare across Ireland’s greyhound industry.

The new accredited programmes – the Special Purpose Award in Greyhound Welfare and Husbandry and the Special Purpose Award in Greyhound Health, Injuries & Drug Analysis – will provide participants with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to ensure best practice in the care, management and treatment of greyhounds throughout all stages of life.

Developed collaboratively by TUS academic experts and GRI industry specialists, the courses are designed to meet the evolving educational and welfare needs of the sector, promoting evidence-based care, responsible ownership and regulatory compliance.

There are over 5,500 owners and trainers who are supporting the industry in Ireland.

A Memorandum of Understanding has been agreed between the two organisations,establishing this new relationship. 

President of TUS, Professor Vincent Cunnane, said: “This collaboration reflects TUS’s ongoing commitment to industry-focused education that supports both professional development. These programmes will equip those working in the greyhound sector with the scientific understanding and practical competence necessary to uphold the highest standards of care and integrity.”

Pat Flanagan, Chairman of the Irish Greyhound Board, also welcomed the partnership, saying, “This partnership between GRI and TUS marks a landmark moment for the greyhound industry in Ireland. These newly accredited programmes build on the strong standards of care and welfare already achieved across the industry and will serve as an exemplar for canine welfare more broadly. They reflect our shared commitment to education, best practice and the highest standards of integrity and lifelong welfare for every greyhound.”

The Special Purpose Award in Greyhound Welfare and Husbandry offers comprehensive training in all aspects of greyhound care, from breeding and whelping through to rearing, racing and retirement. Learners will study welfare legislation, husbandry standards, breeding management, nutrition, exercise, kennel design, and rehoming practices. The programme is delivered over over one semester through a blended learning format combining lectures and four site visits.

The Special Purpose Award in Greyhound Health, Injuries & Drug Analysis focuses on the identification, prevention and treatment of greyhound injuries, together with the correct use of medications and understanding of drug control and analysis. Learners will study anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and laboratory testing procedures, gaining both scientific knowledge and applied skills. The programme includes site visits, laboratory sessions, and blended delivery combining in-person and online instruction.

The launch of these programmes marks an important step in supporting education, integrity and welfare in the greyhound industry. By offering structured, accredited learning opportunities, TUS and GRI are helping to ensure the continued professionalisation of greyhound care and management in Ireland.

For further information, visit grireland.ie/education.