Equine Welfare

Horse Racing and Welfare: Evidence and Reform

Horse racing is a major industry with significant welfare concerns, including high rates of musculoskeletal injury, catastrophic breakdowns, and premature slaughter of horses.

Key Facts

Approximately 150-200 horses die on British racecourses annually from injuries
The racehorse-to-slaughter pipeline involves thousands of animals worldwide each year
Young horses are trained and raced on immature skeletal systems
Medication regulations vary enormously between jurisdictions
Retirement planning and re-homing are inadequate for the number of horses leaving the industry

Welfare Considerations

The racing industry acknowledges significant welfare problems and has invested in track surface improvements, injury surveillance, and re-homing programs. However, fundamental welfare concerns remain around the age at which horses begin hard training and racing, use of medications to mask pain, and the fate of horses who cannot win or are past racing age. Welfare reform requires transparency, independent oversight, and investment in lifetime care commitments.

What You Can Do

Support organizations providing re-homing and rehabilitation for ex-racehorses
Advocate for minimum age requirements and training progression standards
Oppose racing in jurisdictions with weak medication and welfare regulations
Engage with racing industry welfare reform initiatives through organizations like Racing Forward