Regulatory veterinary surgeons endorse GBGB welfare programme
THE GBGB has reflected on the role of Regional Regulatory Veterinary Surgeon’s (RRVs) some 18 months since the full team took up their posts with two of the appointees giving a ringing endorsement of welfare in the sport.
A key action from GBGB’s long-term welfare strategy, A Good Life for Every Greyhound, the team work with licensed racecourses and trainers across the country to promote and protect greyhound welfare – whether through their unannounced visits to tracks, the Annual Veterinary Kennel Inspections they conduct at each trainer’s residential kennels or their involvement in the Disease Surveillance and Monitoring Programme (DSMP), which helps ensure high standards of biosecurity, prevention and containment measures in residential kennels.
Two of the RRVs – Dr Lawrence Steed and Dr Diego Mastrolia – have spoken about their initial impressions of joining the industry, their experiences so far and the collective role that everyone in the sport plays to ensure that racing greyhounds receive the best care possible at every stage of their lives.
Steed joined GBGB in May 2024 after working in veterinary practices in the South East and London.
He now works with trainers across Essex, Kent, London and Sussex, as well as Central Park, Romford, Harlow and Hove stadia and said: “I strongly believe the introduction of the team of Regional Regulatory Vets has improved the welfare of racing greyhounds.
“With more feet on the ground, trainers and kennelhands have more access than ever before to advice and help whenever needed.
“They benefit from expert veterinary support and a wealth of educational material that allows our sport to continuously drive up welfare standards and maintain its important place in the British sporting landscape.
“As RRVs, we are responsible for the Annual Veterinary Kennel Inspections of GBGB trainers’ kennels. Through this, we can review and discuss many approaches to welfare.
“I place great importance on my discussions with trainers, where I can advise on welfare practice, and I can also learn from those who have a wealth of experience with racing greyhounds.“
“Having RRVs as a part of the GBGB team, on top of the wider field force of Stipendiary Stewards and Sampling Stewards, is incredibly important to monitor the welfare of racing greyhounds.
“A specific focus has been to continue to help greyhounds when they retire, with retired greyhounds being a key focus at our annual and unannounced kennel inspections. We want to ensure that all racing greyhounds are cared for throughout their careers and beyond, and that their welfare is kept to the highest possible standard.”
Mastrolia is the RRV for the East Midlands and East Anglia, covering all trainers in this area as well as Yarmouth and Towcester. He joined the RRV team in May 2024.
Mastrolia said: “It’s been 18 months since I started working as a Regional Regulatory Vet with the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, and I can honestly say it’s been one of the most meaningful experiences of my professional life.
“This role has allowed me to combine my veterinary skills with my deep passion for animal welfare - especially when it comes to greyhounds, who deserve care, respect, and dignity both on and off the track.
“My job isn’t just about enforcing rules. I don’t see myself as someone who’s there to control—I’m here to help support trainers so they can offer the best possible quality of life to their dogs. Every day, I put the dogs first.
“Whether I’m visiting kennels or attending race days, my priority is always the wellbeing of the greyhounds - their comfort, their health and their happiness.
“And what I’ve seen over these months is that many trainers genuinely dedicate their lives to their dogs. They care deeply and do everything they can to keep them healthy and content.
“What’s surprised me most in this role is how safe and well-regulated greyhound racing is. It might be one of the most closely monitored sports in the world.
“And beyond the track, greyhounds are incredible companions—gentle, affectionate and perfectly suited to home life after retirement. I always recommend adopting a retired greyhound to anyone looking for a loving, loyal dog.
“Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. Too often people assume greyhound racing is cruel but in reality trainers truly love their dogs and treat them like family.
“My hope is that, through my work and advice, the quality of life in kennels continues to further improve—and that, through GBGB’s work, the wider public will truly understand the care and commitment behind this sport.”