What measures should be adopted to better protect the health and well-being of race horses?

The equine industry is deeply invested in safeguarding the health and well-being of horses and jockeys. Race track accreditation, changes in race day medication rules, injury statistics and reporting, research focused on track surfaces to improve horse and rider safety, as well as research and recommendations concerning whip usage, and Thoroughbred after care, are all examples of industry professionals’, animal welfare scientists’, trainers’, and owners’ efforts to protect the safety and integrity of horse racing. Many of these topics were addressed during the eighth Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit held at Keenland in Lexington Kentucky in June of 2018. The goal should be to continue collaborative discussion and implementation of evidence based best practices that address issues relevant to the health and well-being of racehorses. More…

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