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Demystifying common questions about horse racing using science, data, research and expert experience.

Common Questions categories

Common questions

By using current scientific research and expert vet advice to give accurate answers to frequently asked questions and worries, we aim to enhance people’s comprehension of horse racing while fostering discussions about how to make welfare practices better.

A horse at Saratoga is jogged for an exam prior to going out for morning works.
When horses sustain a broken leg, the decision to euthanize them is complex and based on humane considerations backed by veterinary expertise. Despite advancements in veterinary medicine, not all fractures can be successfully repaired, necessitating difficult decisions regarding euthanasia.
Reading time: 9 minutes
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Horse slaughter has effectively been banned in the United States through a mechanism which has defunded the mandatory inspection of equines intended for slaughter. Under current legislative consideration is the SAFE (Save America’s Forgotten Equines) Act.
Reading time: 16 minutes
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The debate over the necessity of whips and their impact on public perception continues, prompting ongoing rule reforms. However, under HISA regulations, the use of a particular style of whip is closely monitored to prioritize horse safety and welfare. These regulations aim to limit its usage, preventing injuries and ensuring the well-being of the animals. While historically, whips were used without restriction, modern regulations and the evolution of whip design emphasize sound over pain, aiming to maintain control and safety.
Reading time: 14 minutes
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This article discusses the complex world of racehorse aftercare, detailing how retired racehorses are retrained, rehomed, and integrated into therapeutic programs through the dedicated efforts of organizations like the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, ensuring these equine athletes lead meaningful lives after racing.
Reading time: 15 minutes
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In a challenge to the notion that juvenile racing is harmful, groundbreaking research shows that horses who begin training at two years old can, in fact, be stronger and more durable in the long term. This article explains how horse growth in relation to human development reveals significant differences, particularly in how quickly foals become active and mature compared to human infants and adolescents.
Reading time: 12 minutes
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The use of furosemide in racehorses embodies a complex interplay between enhancing performance and addressing legitimate veterinary concerns. While it offers clear benefits in managing conditions such as exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage, the potential for it to confer a competitive edge complicates its role in the sport.
Reading time: 8 minutes
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