The Irish Greyhound Board (IGB) and the Kingdom Greyhound Stadium in Co Kerry have pulled financial support from the Rose of Tralee Festival.
In a statement, the IGB said it made the decision "reluctantly" after consultation with festival organisers.
It added that many festival ambassadors - including the Roses themselves - have been the subject of "malicious online threats" in recent weeks.
The board said while it respects the right to protest, this must be done in a peaceful manner.
"The long standing partnership between both the festival and IGB has been positive for the area with both organisations playing significant roles in the community and the local economy and both parties involved with many charitable organisations throughout the country", the board added.
The IGB and Kingdom Greyhound Stadium said they "regret this decision" and wish the Rose of Tralee the best of luck with this year's festival.
It follows recent controversy in the greyhound sports sector, highlighting the cruelty some dogs face.
The industry has been in the spotlight following a documentary raising animal welfare concerns.
The 2019 Rose of Tralee Festival takes place from Friday August 23rd.
Main image: Hopeful Roses are seen in 2018 ahead of the Rose of Tralee International Festival | Image: RollingNews.ie
