RACING: The welfare and transition of thoroughbreds post retirement has been bolstered by the implementation of new national regulations by the Australian Racing Board.
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South West owners and trainers will now have to notify Racing Information Services Australia when their horse has been retired under compulsory rules which came into effect on July 1.
Managing owners have 30 days to advise RISA and outline the reasons for their horse’s retirement and plans for their life beyond the race track, whether it is for breeding, equestrian pursuits or as a companion animal.
In a further attempt to enhance the welfare of retired thoroughbreds, once a horse is retired, it will be ineligible to race again without the permission of stewards.
The new ruling also impacts trainers who are required to notify RISA of the death of a race horse and the cause of their death when under their care.
The changes will provide the industry with greater insight into the reason why horses conclude their racing careers as well as their activities post racing to better direct education and welfare initiatives.
Racing and Wagering WA racing industry veterinarian Dr Judith Medd said the national rule will provide the authorities with better information.
“This data can be used to further develop and direct our Off the Track program which supports the re-training and re-homing of thoroughbred racehorses, in addition to other welfare and researched based activities that RWWA supports financially,” she said.
“Whilst the majority of owners already re-home their horses responsibly, this rule reinforces the owner’s accountability to ensure they plan for their horses’ retirement early and give them the best possible opportunity of a fulfilling post-racing career also.”
