The **Peñalolén Municipality**, together with **Carabineros de Chile** and with the support of [animal welfare organizations](https://noticiasambientales.com/animales/la-organizacion-argentina-sin-tas-afirma-que-el-proyecto-de-carruajes-en-trevelin-infringe-la-ley-de-maltrato-animal/), carried out a **demolition operation** at the old **José Arrieta greyhound racetrack**, where **illegal greyhound races** had been taking place for over **20 years**.
Located on the **banks of the San Carlos Canal**, the venue was the scene of **clandestine betting, alcohol consumption, and various uncivil behaviors**, severely affecting neighborhood coexistence.
Precarious Infrastructure and Urban Risks
Constructions without permits or technical support **violated urban planning regulations**.
The facilities of the racetrack had **improvised structures**, without authorization or safety criteria, **directly contravening the General Law of Urbanism and Construction**. The place posed a **risk of collapse** and a threat to the community, prompting municipal intervention.
Mayor **Miguel Concha** stated that the operation aims to **send a clear message against [illegal activities and animal abuse](https://noticiasambientales.com/animales/maltrato-animal-en-santa-fe-desarticulan-mediante-un-operativo-policial-una-presunta-red-de-rinas-de-gallos/)**:
“Here, there were people who enjoyed the suffering of the greyhounds, which is inhumane and unacceptable”.
The demolition of the racetrack sets a precedent against greyhound races
Responsible Ownership and Neighbor Complaints
**Inspections revealed conditions of animal neglect and abuse**.
Prior inspections found **serious sanitary breaches**: dogs without **identification microchips**, **lack of water**, absence of **accredited vaccination**, and **overcrowded conditions**. In addition, there were **neighbor complaints** about **noise disturbances, illegal betting, and alcohol consumption**, showing a systematic violation of rights, both human and animal.
Legal Ban on Greyhound Racing in Argentina: a Regional Precedent
**Law No. 27,330** penalizes dog races and strengthens animal protection.
In **Argentina**, greyhound and all breed races were **banned on November 16, 2016**, through **Law No. 27,330**, which establishes **prison sentences of up to 4 years** and **fines** for those who organize, promote, or participate in these activities.
The law was driven by a **massive social mobilization** and the work of **animal protection organizations**, becoming a **legal and ethical milestone**.
Key Reasons for the Ban
**End of abuse, social awareness, and strong legal framework**.
– **End of animal abuse**: a cruel practice that included **doping, abandonment, and disposal of animals** was eradicated.
– **Public awareness**: the suffering of greyhounds was made visible, generating **greater social sensitivity**.
– **Legal precedent**: the law complements the **Animal Abuse Law**, strengthening the legal framework.
– **Regional impact**: it inspired similar movements in **Latin America**, promoting the eradication of violent practices.
Peñalolén as an Example of Institutional Action
Municipal commitment to **safety, animal welfare**, and community coexistence.
The operation in Peñalolén represents a **model of comprehensive intervention**, where **animal protection**, **urban security**, and **community action** come together to **eradicate cruel practices** and **reclaim public spaces**.
The municipality reaffirms its commitment to **responsible ownership**, a **safe city for all**, and a **coexistence based on respect and empathy**.
