What do retired racehorses do?

(c) Nigel Baker Dreamtime.com

 Britain’s first ever thoroughbred census has been launched to help improve traceability of former racehorses after they retire from the sport.

All ex-racehorse owners are urged to participate by completing the census before the deadline of December 31, 2023.

 

The census is being conducted by equine research specialists at Hartpury University and is designed to address a significant data gap arising from the infrequent updates to equine passports once thoroughbreds retire from racing.

 

By collecting information such as equine identification document (passport) numbers, microchip numbers, ages, current residences, second careers, and more, the census hopes to construct a comprehensive and detailed database concerning the lives of former racehorses.

 

Partnering with key bodies like Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), the official aftercare charity of British Racing, the census is supported by the Racing Foundation, World Horse Welfare, and Weatherbys General Stud Book. 

 

By enhancing the traceability of retired thoroughbreds, it is hoped it will be easier to support owners in terms of access to educational resources, avenues for participation in competitions, and the cultivation of informed and supportive communities.

 

It is also expected that this data-driven approach will improve communication in the event of an equine disease outbreak, safeguarding the equine population. 

 

Ultimately, the census endeavours to bring about positive transformations in the aftercare and welfare of retired racehorses in Britain.

 

Jane Williams, Head of Research at Hartpury University, stated: “We’re delighted to be part of this proactive initiative as Hartpury is committed to supporting the equine sector to improve the quality of life of the horses we all love. The census will present an opportunity to understand more about the lifetime care of thoroughbreds, generate evidence to safeguard against future disease outbreaks, and showcase the huge benefits thoroughbreds bring to so many people.”

 

David Catlow, Managing Director, Retraining of Racehorses, added: “We are pleased to be teaming up with the Horse Welfare Board and Hartpury University to encourage owners of former racehorses to participate in the census survey. The ‘social licence’ for the use of horses in sport is under increasing scrutiny and what happens to former racehorses after they retire from racing is identified as a particular concern. This is a significant step towards ensuring thoroughbreds enjoy a healthy and caring existence during their lifetimes and will provide the racing industry with the relevant data to guide future decisions”. 

For more details, and to complete the census, see:

 

https://uwe.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8bNJFzR2FB95ZlQ