Horse Retirement Welfare and Aftercare

Thousands of horses leave sport, racing, and leisure use each year facing uncertain welfare outcomes. Retirement planning and aftercare are ethical responsibilities of horse owners.

Key Facts

Around 5,000-6,000 thoroughbred racehorses leave racing in the UK annually
An estimated 3,000+ horses pass through UK markets annually in poor welfare conditions
Retired racehorses are at risk of slaughter without robust aftercare programs
Retired Sport Horse passports now require welfare attestations
The Racing Foundation funds Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) which supports retired thoroughbreds

Welfare Considerations

Horses that are no longer economically productive face welfare risks if owners cannot afford continued care or choose not to provide it. Neglect and poor body condition are the most common welfare problems in retired horses. Horse markets include animals that are emaciated, lame, or sick. Slaughter journeys can involve unfit animals being transported long distances. Well-managed retirement requires planning for veterinary, farriery, and nutritional costs that persist even without competitive use. Responsible ownership means planning for retirement from the moment of purchase.

What You Can Do

Support Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) programs for thoroughbred aftercare
Plan financially for horse retirement before acquiring a horse
Report suspected horse neglect to local welfare inspectors
Advocate for mandatory horse traceability using passport microchip verification
Support World Horse Welfare campaigns on responsible horse ownership and sales