SECTION 309.309. Lockout Kennel

(a) An association shall provide a lockout kennel that:

(1) is soundproof, to prevent noise from disturbing the greyhounds that are waiting to race;

(2) is air-conditioned sufficiently to maintain a temperature between 68 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit; and

(3) has sealed or ceramic floors and walls to permit proper cleaning and disinfection.

(b) Each crate located in the lockout kennel must:

(1) be constructed of a smooth, hard material, such as stainless steel or tile;

(2) be at least three feet wide, four feet deep, and four feet high;

(3) be constructed so that the crate floor is not in direct contact with the concrete surface;

(4) be located on the floor level to prevent greyhounds from sustaining jumping injuries; and

(5) have a drop latch on the door.

(c) An association shall provide a comfortable room near the lockout kennel in which a kennel owner or trainer may view the race. The association shall also provide kennel owners and trainers a method, as approved by the executive secretary, for monitoring the interior of the lockout kennel and the back of the starting box and view the interior of the lockout kennel.

(d) An association shall provide an area adjacent to the lockout kennel in which a greyhound can wait to weigh-in and cool down following a race or wait for schooling races. The area must:

(1) be large enough to comfortably accommodate 100 greyhounds and the leadouts and trainers;

(2) be adequately shaded and fenced to shield the greyhounds' view of the racetrack;

(3) have eight water faucets with hoses;

(4) have a disinfected dipping vat, approved by the Commission veterinarian, through which a greyhound may be walked to assist in cooling down following a race; and

(5) have adequate drainage.

Source Note: The provisions of this §309.309 adopted to be effective October 21, 1999, 24 TexReg 8971; amended to be effective June 1, 2000, 25 TexReg 4736; amended to be effective January 8, 2004, 29 TexReg 375; amended to be effective December 7, 2008, 33 TexReg 10003