Introduction
The life of a racehorse is strenuous, and their racing career often comes to an end either due to injury or age. So what do they do with old racehorses? Thankfully, there are many options for the care and retirement of retired racehorses, from adoption to pension programs. In this article, we’ll explore the various avenues available to retired racehorses, and the organizations that facilitate their care.
Retraining
Retraining is a popular option for retired racehorses. It involves teaching the horse a new discipline, such as dressage, show jumping, or eventing. Retraining can be done through private trainers or through organizations such as the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF). The TRF works with private trainers to provide retraining services for retired racehorses, helping them transition into new careers.
Adoption
Adopting a retired racehorse is a great way to provide a home for a horse that needs one. Adoption programs can be found through organizations like the TRF and the Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA). These organizations work with private individuals and trainers to place retired racehorses in homes where they will be well taken care of.
Stud Services
Retired racehorses can also find a new career as a stud horse. Stud services involve breeding the retired racehorse with other horses, and can be an incredibly lucrative endeavor. It is important to ensure that the horse is healthy enough for stud services, and that the semen is viable for successful breeding.
Therapeutic Riding
Therapeutic riding is another great option for retired racehorses. It involves teaching the horse how to carry a rider, and can provide a sense of accomplishment as well as some extra income. Therapeutic riding can be done through organizations such as the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) and the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA).
Equine-Assisted Therapy
Equine-assisted therapy is a form of therapy that involves using horses to help people with physical, mental, and emotional issues. Retired racehorses can be especially well-suited to this type of work, and organizations such as the Equine-Facilitated Mental Health Association (EFMHA) work to provide training and certification for therapeutic riding instructors.
Pension Programs
Pension programs are another great way to provide care for retired racehorses. These programs involve providing a set amount of money each month to the horse’s owner, in exchange for the horse’s continued care and well-being. This can be a great way to ensure that the horse is well taken care of, and is often offered through organizations like the TRF and the TCA.
Retirement Farms
Retirement farms are another option for retired racehorses. These farms provide a safe and comfortable environment for horses to live out their lives, with access to plenty of food, water, and exercise. Organizations like the TRF and the TCA often work with retirement farms to provide care for retired racehorses.
Competitive Trail Riding
Competitive trail riding is another great way to keep retired racehorses active. It involves teaching the horse how to navigate an obstacle course, and can be a fun and rewarding activity. Organizations such as the North American Trail Ride Conference (NATRC) and the American Competitive Trail Horse Association (ACTHA) can provide training and guidance for competitive trail riding.
Rescue Organizations
Rescue organizations are dedicated to providing care for horses in need. They often take in retired racehorses and provide them with a safe and comfortable place to live, as well as medical care and other necessities. Organizations like the TRF and the TCA work with rescue organizations to provide care for retired racehorses.
Conclusion
Retired racehorses have many options for their care and retirement. From retraining to adoption to pension programs, there are a variety of ways to ensure that retired racehorses are well taken care of. Organizations like the TRF and the TCA work to provide care and support for retired racehorses, and rescue organizations are dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable place for them to live. With all of these options, there is no reason for retired racehorses to be neglected or abused.