South Island greyhound races scheduled for this week have been cancelled following an outbreak of canine coronavirus cases in Canterbury.
In an advisory on its website, Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) said all South Island races have been ceased until next Monday.
"Canine enteric coronavirus was first suspected in greyhounds in the adoption program in June and was confirmed on 25th in two kennels in Christchurch that had GAP (greyhounds as pets) dogs as well as racing dogs.
"Both kennels were immediately quarantined and dogs banned from racing."
GRNZ said there's also a ban on the movement of greyhounds between the North and South Islands until further notice.
Canine coronavirus causes an infectious intestinal disease that's specific to dogs, according to animal health site PetMD. It is not linked to COVID-19.
Virus symptoms include vomiting and diarrhoea.
"Places and events where dogs gather are the most likely locations for the virus to spread," PetMD says.
