Greyhound Racing NSW Announce Key Veterinary Appointments
Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) has appointed one of Australia's most respected greyhound veterinarians, Dr Brian Daniel, to the newly-created position of Head Racing Veterinarian.
The appointment of Dr Daniel is the first step in the establishment of the Greyhound Welfare and Veterinary Services Unit within GRNSW.
The Greyhound Welfare and Veterinary Services Unit will primarily be responsible for:
- Provision of veterinary services at TAB meetings and in the Greyhounds As Pets program
- Development and implementation of a canine health and welfare program
- Providing expert advice to GRNSW on veterinary matters
- Taking strategic responsibility for the development of research programs into drug issues
Dr Daniel has over 40 years of experience as a practising greyhound veterinarian. He will manage
the co-ordination and provision of raceday veterinary services for the NSW greyhound racing
industry as well as leading the provision of training and education to industry participants in
relation to care and welfare of the racing greyhound.
“I'm looking forward to developing GRNSW's on-course veterinary team and working with industry members to deliver our raceday services on a statewide basis that will ensure GRNSW remains at the forefront of greyhound welfare,” he said.
Dr Daniel will be supported by Dr Janette O'Keefe in the role of Health and Welfare Manager. Dr O'Keefe will be responsible for developing and managing the non-racing greyhound welfare program to protect and enhance the health of greyhounds in NSW.
Dr O'Keefe has an extensive background in animal welfare at a government level and is currently an on-track veterinarian with the Western Australian Greyhound Racing Association. She also operates her own consultant veterinary business.
GRNSW Chief Executive Brent Hogan said Dr Daniel and Dr O'Keefe would be integral to GRNSW's commitment to improved animal welfare standards.
“Both Dr Daniel and Dr O'Keefe have extensive experience in the greyhound industry and will be welcome additions to the organisation,” he said.
“Industry participants can expect a consolidated animal welfare approach from the Greyhound Welfare and Veterinary Services Unit which will provide specialist advice and training throughout all stages of a greyhound's lifecycle and across both our TAB and Non-TAB tracks alike.”
Dr Daniel will commence his role with GRNSW in late September while Dr O'Keefe will assume her post in October.