The Technological University of the Shannon, in collaboration with Greyhound Racing Ireland, has announced the launch of two new accredited programmes aimed at strengthening education, professional standards and animal welfare across Ireland’s greyhound industry.
The courses – the Special Purpose Award in Greyhound Welfare and Husbandry, and the Special Purpose Award in Greyhound Health, Injuries & Drug Analysis – have been designed to provide participants with both 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 jointly by academic experts from Technological University of the Shannon and industry specialists from Greyhound Racing Ireland, the programmes respond directly to the evolving educational and welfare needs of the sector. They promote evidence-based care, responsible ownership and compliance with welfare and regulatory standards in an industry supported by more than 5,500 owners and trainers and estimated to be worth €132 million to the Irish economy.
The partnership was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding at the Moylish campus, establishing a new long-term relationship between the university and the sport’s governing body.
President of TUS, Professor Vincent Cunnane, said the collaboration reflects the university’s commitment to industry-aligned education and 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,” he said.
“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,” added Pat Flanagan, Chair of the Irish Greyhound Board.
The Welfare and Husbandry award covers breeding, whelping, rearing, racing and retirement, with modules on legislation, nutrition, exercise, kennel design and rehoming.
The Health, Injuries & Drug Analysis programme focuses on injury prevention and treatment, pharmacology, medication use and drug control, combining laboratory work with applied learning.
Sport for Business Perspective
This collaboration between two members of the Sport for Business community highlights how structured education can play a central role in strengthening trust, transparency and long-term sustainability in sport.
By investing in accredited, third-level learning, Greyhound Racing Ireland is reinforcing its commitment to welfare and integrity while also supporting the people who underpin a €132 million industry.
For TUS, the partnership demonstrates the growing value of industry-linked education models that respond directly to societal and regulatory expectations.
As scrutiny of animal welfare continues to intensify, initiatives like this demonstrate how education and professionalism can be powerful tools for protecting both reputation and economic impact.
Image Credit: Sport for Business
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