Racing WA stewards have concluded an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the injury and subsequent handling of Molfetta Abby at the Cannington trials on 18 February 2025.
At the inquiry, evidence was heard from T1 Trainer Mr N Minutillo, Racing WA Regulatory Veterinarian Dr J Medd and Racing WA Greyhound Deputy Chief Steward Mr S Jones.
After considering the evidence provided at the inquiry, Mr Minutillo pleaded guilty to the following charge under Local Rule 21(1)(c) relating to failing to immediately convey Molfetta Abby to a veterinary clinic after it seriously injured itself at the trials held at Cannington on 18 February 2025.
L21 Care of Greyhounds injured at a racecourse (added 1/2/25)
(1) Where a greyhound sustains any serious injury at a race meeting or racecourse:-
(c) Where an injury occurs at a racecourse during trials where an OTV is not in attendance, where there is reason to suspect that the greyhound may be seriously injured, the greyhound must immediately be conveyed to a veterinary clinic and sub-rule (2) is to apply with respect to any subsequent diagnosis.
Stewards have completed their deliberations and determined to impose a disqualification of four months, commencing 3 April 2025.
In consideration of penalty, stewards were mindful of the following factors;
- Mr Minutillo’s guilty plea, personal circumstances and remorse over the incident.
- Mr Minutillo’s cooperation during the investigation and inquiry.
- Mr Minutillo’s good record in the greyhound industry over 30 years.
- That although the greyhound was not conveyed to the veterinary clinic immediately, it was presented to the veterinary clinic the very next morning after the evening trials.
- Mr Minutillo applied first aid to Molfetta Abby prior to presenting it at the veterinary clinic, where it was reported by the examining veterinarian to be “comfortable” and “stable.”
- Molfetta Abby is recovering from surgery and is expected to have a successful outcome.
- The expectation that licensed persons apply the highest of standards with respect to all matters associated with animal welfare.