Animal rights activists and travellers have taken to social media to praise Qantas on terminating its racing greyhound freight services to Asia.
The decision to cease the service was made over the weekend following an investigation on ABC’s 7.30 Report which found hundreds of the Australian animals were sent to the region once they were deemed ‘too slow’ to race.
The exportation, according to ABC News, is in breach of racing rules and results in the animals being severely mistreated in shocking conditions.
Qantas admitted in a statement to the media outlet that in the past it had transported a ‘small number of racing greyhounds to Asia’.
However, after seeing the report, the carrier made the decision to cease the service.
“The piece was seen by many members of our team.”
Qantas
“In light of the story we have made the decision to no longer provide racing greyhound freight services to Asia.”
Activists, Animals Australia, welcomed the decision, saying it be a real ‘game-changer’.
“Qantas is one of only two commercial airlines that flies directly to Hong Kong — the gateway for Australian greyhounds into Asia,” the group said.
“The other is Cathay Pacific and they have also now confirmed that they do not transport racing greyhounds.”
Australian travellers have also welcomed the decision, saying they’re now more likely to choose the carrier over others.
@Qantas@Nez_animallover This is brilliant news. Thank you Qantas for stepping up and ceasing greyhound transport ??
— Balletslipper (@balletslipper) December 11, 2015
thank you, in light of this decision I announce my increased desire to be transported by @Qantas to asia…or anywhere for that matter 🙂
— HairyZambezi (@DebbieandScott) December 11, 2015
@Qantas Great effort all round. When Govt fail to step in good to see corporates! ❤️
— Lisa (@lisap1409) December 12, 2015
.@Qantas Thank for choosing not to be part of the greyhound death trade – we are happy vegemites @AnimalsAuspic.twitter.com/prPbKhvhJ2
— Nez HS (@Nez_animallover) December 11, 2015
