Greyhound Vets from across the World meet at Shelbourne
World leading experts in the veterinary care of working dogs met at University College, Dublin last week for the International Canine Sports Medicine Conference


Delegates from the International Canine Sports Medicine Conference 2025 visiting Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium on Saturday, August 23, joined by Pat Flanagan, Chairman of Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI), Pat Meskell Veterinary Director GRI, and retired greyhounds Jimmy and Charlie with Brenda Powderly and Paul Smith, representing the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust.
Shelbourne hosts the International Canine Sports Medicine Conference
The International Canine Sports Medicine Conference 2025, hosted at University College Dublin, has been hailed as a major success, bringing together some of the world’s leading experts in veterinary medicine for working and sporting dogs. This CPD-accredited conference offered a unique opportunity to attend expert-led lectures, participate in a dedicated hands-on surgical lab, and engage with internationally renowned specialists in the field.
A highlight of the weekend was the visit to Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium on Saturday evening for dinner and racing. Delegates praised the venue, atmosphere, and hospitality, noting the superb racing and dining.
During the evening, Ray Ferguson, widely recognised as the father figure of greyhound veterinary practice in Australia, was honoured with a special presentation on behalf of Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI). The personalised engraved gift was a fitting tribute to his lifelong contribution to the industry.
The conference attendees were also treated to a pre-racing tour of the Shelbourne Park Museum, with delegates commenting that Shelbourne Park is “the best stadium they have seen,” a view echoed by both Australian and British visitors.
The International Canine Sports Medicine Conference 2025 has further reinforced Ireland’s standing as a centre of excellence for greyhound racing and veterinary advancement.