1. Muzzle Exemption Policy – South Australia
Dec 03, 2025
Effective 17 November, changes to South Australian legislation administered by the Dog and Cat Management Board (DCMB) mean that retired and pet greyhounds are no longer legally required to wear a muzzle in public; however, they are still required to remain on lead at all times. The requirement to wear a muzzle now applies only to greyhounds that remain registered as active racing greyhounds, which must be muzzled and on lead when in public, except when racing, trialling, training, or exercising on private property with the consent of the landowner. Once a greyhound is de-registered from racing (i.e. retired outside of industry), it is considered a pet greyhound and is not subject to mandatory muzzling requirements. Owners remain responsible for ensuring their dog is under effective control and behaves safely in public and may choose to use a muzzle at their discretion. GAP SA continues to undertake a Green Collar assessment to support safe community integration, and the green collar signifies that the dog has completed this assessment and is considered suitable to be unmuzzled. Owners should always use judgement in unfamiliar environments, around small animals, or where safety concerns exist. Where a greyhound is adopted via GAP, the adoption contract will specify whether GAP SA recommends the ongoing use of a muzzle or not.
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