RSPCA: Find Ways To Reduce Faller-Numbers And Improve Racehorse Welfare
‘Find Ways To Reduce Faller-Numbers And Improve Racehorse Welfare’, Says RSPCA
-Society urges racing world to put animal welfare first at the Grand National-
The RSPCA is urging the racing world to concentrate on reducing the number of fallers in the Grand National – and all other races – to help cut injuries and fatalities.
It is hoped that by trying to find the reasons why horses fall at a particular fence, or on a particular type of ground, that races can be made safer.
RSPCA equine consultant David Muir said: “The Grand National is without doubt the most testing jump race in the world. The RSPCA believes only horses with recent, proven ability should be allowed to take part.
“The racing world should also look closely at the number of fallers in all races. This has a direct effect on both injuries and fatalities, and it’s an obvious way that racehorse welfare can be improved. Any death of a racehorse is indefensible, and this is something positive that can be done to help prevent it happening.”
As the weather has been warm and dry, the RSPCA is concerned the going may be faster than might be expected for the time of year.
Positive safety improvements the RSPCA has been involved with at Aintree include:
· The introduction of more headless hurdles* · More inviting chase fences which are rounded and have a clear toe bar, making it easier for the horse to spot when to take off · Improvements to Becher’s Brook which now has a higher landing zone and a rubberised area over the ditch to help prevent injury · A safer approach to Canal Turn which may encourage horses to use more of the fence rather than bunching, creating more individual space when jumping.
Other positive improvements include rubberised walkways to prevent horses slipping and new ‘watering’ facilities where horses are cooled down after races.
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