This archive report was first published on 30 November 2019.
Published on November 30, 2019, a New York State Senate hearing in Albany shed light on the harsh realities of the horse racing industry. Veterinarian Kraig Kulikowski testified that the ideal age for horses to race is six, not three or four, as is often the case.
However, the industry's focus on speed and profit often leads to the exploitation of young horses. Many are retired after just a few starts, like Justify, who was retired at three after only five starts. This raises concerns about the long-term effects of racing on these young animals.
Fortunately, there are organizations working to retrain and rehabilitate retired racehorses. The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation in Maryland and Take2 in New York are just a few examples. These programs provide a much-needed safety net for horses that have been pushed to their limits.
But more needs to be done. The industry needs a stronger and more unified governing structure to enforce drug and animal welfare rules. By prioritizing the well-being of these magnificent creatures, we can create a safer and more humane racing environment.
As author Sally Eckhoff so eloquently puts it, 'Every racehorse has this potential, providing we don’t wreck them first.' It's time for the horse racing industry to take a closer look at its practices and prioritize the welfare of its young stars.
