Multiple Equine Fatalities Later, New Mexico Governor Highlights on Equestrian Future of the State

The increased number of equine casualties has raised a cause to worry about for all equestrian enthusiasts. This is why, keeping the situation in consideration, the governor of New Mexico is taking steps to do what is right for the community. News of euthanizing horses is just extremely disturbing. The reason for so many horse deaths is unclear to date, but the government is not willing to take any chances any further.

For the optimal performance of the horses, the correct measures are not being employed. The use of impure substances on horses is resulting in distressing news. Immediate changes are to be implemented, as ordered by the governor, to bring the situation under control.

New Mexico’s governor looks out for the well-being of the equestrian community 

Encouraging illegal and harmful practices on horses for personal gain is not something that should be encouraged. Online betting regulations need to be eased to ensure the survival of the industry amidst cut-throat competition for gambling dollars. The use of various drugs on horses to enhance their performance should be halted immediately. New Mexico’s governor, Michelle Lujan Grisham, has called for immediate changes in the use of drugs for performance enhancement.

She also addressed the recent deaths of seven horses at Ruidoso Downs, expressing that measures have been taken to ensure that the upcoming races will undergo more thorough examination. All horses must be assessed before the race to determine their fitness for participating.

In the letter that she sent to the New Mexico Racing Commission, Lujan also shared her concern about how the history of horse racing has been impacted and derogated by the usage of performance-enhancing drugs. According to AP News, the HISA – which is The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act – was effective from July 1, 2022. This inculcated two major facts racetrack safety and anti-doping and medication control.

The number of horses euthanized is absolutely heartbreaking. Around 642 horses in New Mexico have been euthanized between 2014 and 2022. It is the sixth-highest number in the country. It is now very important to take the right steps.

Important steps to consider for the betterment of horses

With Gov. Grisham standing up for the equestrian world, it is now high time to adopt the necessary changes. Measures like pre-race evaluations, blood draws and continuous monitoring should be done when horses are training or are in stalls. These steps are demanded by the governor and must be followed sincerely. The Racing Commission has begun with the implementation by running testing machines at every moment of the day. And also kept a discussion about the governor’s demands.

Read more: First American Trainer to Saddle a Winner at Royal Ascot Faces a 15-Day Ban and Fined $2,000 as His Horse Fails Drug Test

It is already too late for the lives lost. There have been multiple stories of New Mexico’s racing industry, where every now and then trainers are rocked by doping allegations. Hopefully, all the racing tracks will be adopting the regulations.

Watch this story: Unexpected Turn of Events Lead to the 19-Month Suspension of the Prominent Equestrian Ahead of 2024 Paris Olympics