Retired horses face significant welfare risks at end of life, with inadequate retirement infrastructure and economic pressures contributing to poor outcomes for many animals.
Horse retirement is a welfare challenge that the equestrian and racing industries have historically managed inadequately relative to the scale of the problem. When an animal has provided years of service, the welfare obligation continues through retirement, yet the economics of horse ownership mean that retired animals are often a financial burden without income potential. The result is a spectrum of outcomes from excellent retirement sanctuaries providing high-quality care to neglect, poor nutrition, and inadequate veterinary attention. For racehorses in particular, the transition from intensive athletic training to retirement requires careful management of physical and psychological adjustment. The welfare of retired horses is increasingly recognised as a responsibility of the industries that benefited from their service, driving improved aftercare programme development.