Horse racing is a popular sport on a global scale, where people place bets on which horse will cross the finish line first. It is an exciting and arduous competition, where horses are pushed to their limits both physically and mentally. However, it is important to understand the risks associated with the sport in order to make informed decisions when betting on a horse race.
Horse races have come a long way since their origins in ancient Greece. While the sport has retained many of its traditions, modern day technological advancements have made it safer and more engaging for its participants. Thermal imaging cameras, MRI scanners, X-rays and endoscopes are now used to monitor a horse’s condition post-race, while 3D printing technology can produce casts, splints and prosthetics for injured or sick horses. Despite these technological improvements, the horse racing industry is still struggling to overcome a number of major issues.
These problems range from the breeding and training of young horses to a lack of an adequate wraparound aftercare system for retired racehorses. Furthermore, countless ex-racehorses hemorrhage into the slaughter pipeline after they’re sold to slaughterhouses, where they face a fate that is truly hellish. Thankfully, there are a number of organizations and individuals that network, fundraise and work tirelessly to save these equine victims.
The most significant issue in horse racing is the treatment of its equine athletes. Horses are bred to run from an early age, and are often put into intensive training at the age of two — the rough equivalent of a child entering kindergarten. Their massive torsos and spindly legs are a recipe for breakdowns, especially as they don’t fully mature until they reach age 6. Adding to the problem is that most racehorses are confined in small stalls for 23 hours a day, which can lead to boredom, stress and depression. This can result in crib-biting (a repetitive behavior where a horse grasps a fixed object with its front teeth), weight loss and deteriorating overall health.
In addition to addressing the treatment of its equine athletes, the racing industry must also change how it is perceived by the public. It is not acceptable to publicly mourn the death of one equine victim but completely ignore another’s demise in the name of profit. This will require a profound ideological reckoning at both the macro business and industry levels, as well as a complete restructuring of the sport from the ground up to prioritize the horses’ rights and welfare at all stages of the industry. Only then can horse racing regain its once-tarnished image.