Scotland and Wales have both banned greyhound racing, with the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Senedd passing bills in favor of the ban. The decision comes after reports of cruelty and mistreatment of greyhounds in the racing industry, with thousands of dogs being killed, euthanized, or injured.

The bans have reignited debate over the sport, with animal welfare organizations and advocates welcoming the news. The Unbound the Greyhound coalition, which includes nine animal welfare organizations, worked together towards the ban and emphasized that greyhounds are not commodities but beloved pets that deserve to be safe and loved. The Scottish ban, tabled by Green MSP Mark Ruskell, includes penalties of up to five years in prison and fines of up to £20,000 for illegal greyhound racing.