The deaths of horses in racing have been a cause of concern in the horse racing industry for many years. The number of horses that die each year as a result of racing related injuries and other causes is alarming and has been a topic of discussion among animal rights activists, horse owners, and racing officials. In 2021, the number of horses that died while racing or training has been much higher than usual, prompting questions about why the death rate has increased and what can be done to prevent it. In this article, we will explore the issue of racing horse deaths in 2021, the causes and implications of this increase, and what can be done to reduce the number of horses lost in racing.
Number of Horses Lost in Racing in 2021
According to the Equine Injury Database, the number of horses that died as a result of racing related injuries in 2021 was 691. This number is significantly higher than the number in 2020, which was just 474. The majority of these deaths occurred in the United States, where 545 horses died as a result of racing related injuries. In Australia, the number was much lower, with just 70 horses dying as a result of racing related injuries.
This increase in the number of horses lost in racing in 2021 is concerning, as it suggests that the safety measures in place are not sufficient to protect horses from injury and death.
Causes of Horse Deaths in Racing
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the death of a horse while racing. These include:
- Inadequate Warm-Up: Horses that are not adequately warmed up before racing can suffer from fatigue and injury more easily than those that are properly prepared.
- Contaminated Track Surface: Contaminated track surfaces can cause the horse to slip or lose balance, leading to injury or death.
- Excessive Speed: Excessive speed can put the horse at risk of injury or death, as it is not designed to handle such speeds.
- Inadequate Veterinary Care: Inadequate veterinary care can lead to the horse becoming sick or injured, putting it at risk of death.
- Poor Equipment: Poorly maintained racing equipment, such as jockeys’ saddles, can cause injury or death to the horse.
- Drugs: The use of performance-enhancing drugs can put horses at risk of injury or death.
Impact of Horse Deaths in Racing
The deaths of horses in racing can have a wide range of impacts, both to the horses and to the racing industry as a whole.
Impact on Horses
The death of a horse in racing can have an emotional impact on the horse’s owners and carers, as well as on the horse itself. Horses are highly sensitive creatures and can suffer from a range of emotional issues when faced with the loss of a beloved companion.
Impact on Racing Industry
The deaths of horses in racing can also have a negative impact on the racing industry as a whole. The deaths of horses are not only a tragedy for the horse and its owners, but they can also have a financial impact on the racing industry. Injuries and deaths to horses can lead to increased insurance costs, as well as lost revenue due to the lack of horses available to race.
Preventing Horse Deaths in Racing
The deaths of horses in racing can be prevented by taking a number of steps.
Improving Veterinary Care
One way to reduce the number of horses lost in racing is to ensure that adequate veterinary care is provided. Horses should be regularly examined for signs of injury or illness, and any issues should be addressed promptly.
Regulating Speed
The speed of a race should also be regulated in order to reduce the risk of injury or death. Horses should not be pushed beyond their natural limits, and races should be set at a speed that is appropriate for the horses involved.
Improving Track Surfaces
The track surface should also be regularly inspected and maintained in order to reduce the risk of injury or death. Contaminated track surfaces can cause horses to slip or lose their footing, leading to potentially fatal injuries.
Regulating Drugs
The use of performance-enhancing drugs should also be strictly regulated in order to reduce the risk of injury or death. Horses should not be given drugs that could potentially put them at risk.
Improving Equipment
The equipment used in racing should also be regularly inspected and maintained in order to reduce the risk of injury or death. Poorly maintained racing equipment, such as jockeys’ saddles, can cause injury or death to the horse.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the deaths of horses in racing is a matter of great concern and should be addressed urgently. The number of horses that died as a result of racing related injuries in 2021 was alarmingly high, which suggests that the safety measures in place are not sufficient to protect horses from injury and death. The causes and implications of this increase, as well as what can be done to reduce the number of horses lost in racing, should be explored further in order to reduce the number of horses lost in racing each year.
By taking steps to improve veterinary care, regulate speed, improve track surfaces, regulate drugs, and improve equipment, the number of horses lost in racing in 2021 can be reduced. Only by taking these steps can we ensure the safety of horses in racing and protect them from injury and death.