Experience over the first twelve months of trials at Sandown Park during 1998 had shown that the following guidelines apply to the issue of the vests in their particular sizes according to a combination of the greyhound's weight and build. It is suggested that the vests "fit" to the body of the dog, creating a streamline appearance. That is, the outline of the dog should not vary and the vest should neither "draw in" the frame, nor hang loosely from it.

Small
Generally suited to dogs 24-26kgs, (52 - 57lbs) but does alter depending on the build of the greyhound.

Medium
Generally suited to dogs 27-32kgs.(59 - 70lbs) The depth of chest and width of shoulders will determine at what point to move into the large vest.

Large
Generally suited to dogs over 32kgs.(70lbs)
Note: There are very few bitches that require a large vest.

At Sandown Park, vests are kept on hinged rings - each ring holding a full set of vests 1 - 10 in each size. Vests are laid out for each race, one vest in each size and number. The dogs papers are placed on top of its vest, the dog goes over to the table, vetted, ear brands checked, the papers returned to the handler and the dog is issued with the vest size that is requested by the handler. The handler is then asked if he/she would like assistance to put the vest onto the dog. After a vest has been issued to each greyhound, the size that has been used is simply replaced with a fresh vest, ready for the next race.

At The Meadows, vests (again, one in each size and number) are kept on hooks above the bench that the dogs papers are laid out on. Dogs are vetted, come off the table to the attendant who checks ear brands, papers are handed back and the handler is issued with the vest size requested and asked if assistance is required. Once again, the size vest that has been issued is replaced with a fresh vest on the hooks ready for the next race. Both methods work extremely well, however the kennel layout and availability of space etc will most likely determine the method that is chosen by each track.

It is important to note that if a trainer is new to the vests, it would be helpful to let them know that they do not need to "rush", to take their time and ask for assistance if required. Let them know that if the vest is not the correct fit, then it is a simple matter to change to another size.

At this point, you may like to let the handler know that the vests are not taken off the greyhounds until they return to the kennels and that assistance will be available should it be required. Once again, let them know that there is no haste required removing the vests.

Upon returning to the wash area, greyhounds are handed back to the handler by the catcher and the handler can then remove the vest (with assistance if requested) and proceed to the wash bays. An attendant collects all the vests, unravels them, gives them a shake and places them in the wash basket.



In Australia, greyhounds enter an enclosed area at the conclusion of each race, known as the "Catching Pen", where they are collected by "Catchers", who return them to their handlers. The lure continues around the track before stopping at a designated area.

Catching Pen staff at both Sandown and The Meadows quickly discovered that it is not advisable to attempt to catch the greyhounds using the vests. Whilst the catchers are waiting for the greyhounds to reach the pen, it would be a good time to point this out and suggest an alternative method. At this point, please advise catchers that the vests should not be removed until the greyhounds return to the wash bay area. This procedure ensures that the vests are all accounted for, that the greyhounds are more settled (making it simpler to remove the vest when the dog is off the track) as well as making it the decision of the handler as to who should remove the vest and receive assistance if requested. Please advise handlers that there is no haste required removing the vests.

The most important point to note is to roll the vest forward, off the rib cage (as shown in Step 3 on the How To Use Page) prior to stepping the legs out. Should a greyhound be injured, there is no need to remove the vest until the dog has been vetted. If the injury is to a front leg, stand at the side of the greyhound as shown in Step 2 on the How To Use Page, roll the vest forward, take the dogs weight and step the unaffected leg out first. It should be noted that at all times, the welfare of the greyhound is paramount, removing the vest is a secondary issue.

Please refer to the Vest Care Page regarding washing, storage and transport of vests.