NSW greyhound watchdog prioritises welfare

NSW's new greyhound racing watchdog has put trainers, owners and others on notice as it targets "high-risk" locations across the state.

Head of the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission, Judy Lind, on Friday named animal welfare as the regulator's top priority in the hope of bringing to account those who do harm.

The body was launched on July 1, following the NSW government's decision to overturn its ban on greyhound racing.

Ms Lind said inspectors were prioritising locations with animals considered high-risk in terms of welfare.

They have the power to enter and inspect properties and animals, as well as the ability to gather evidence and make recordings, and can impose penalties.

"We recognise that the majority of participants are meeting their obligations and are setting an excellent example, it's those who have animal welfare shortfalls we will be focusing on," the chief executive said in a statement.

"We have vets at every race meeting who will complete health and fitness checks, assess the animals' before and after races, and recommend treatment and follow-up assessments where necessary."

The watchdog is already investigating serious animal cruelty allegations against a trainer following the discovery of a mass grave of greyhounds and more than a dozen sick dogs in western Sydney earlier in July.