?Stress and Risks?: Equestrian Nonprofit Raises Concerns Amid Recent Racehorse Tragedy

For centuries, equestrian sports have been a beloved sport. However, recent events have cast a disappointment in this industry. Reports of horse fatalities, injuries, and concerns regarding the well-being of these animals have sparked a call for change. Amid growing concerns about the treatment and welfare of racehorses, the Vancouver Humane Society at Hastings Racecourse in the Lower Mainland has come under scrutiny.

The Vancouver Humane Society is a registered charity in Canada. It is one of the largest animal welfare organizations and provides a variety of services to animals and their owners. The VHS is funded by donations and does not receive any government funding. After the tragic death of an eighth horse this season, the incident has raised questions about the safety and well-being of these animals.

The disturbing equestrian pattern

Over the past few months, Hastings Racecourse has experienced a disturbing trend of horse fatalities which increased attention from animal welfare proponents. Chantelle Archambault, the Vancouver Humane Society’s communications director, disclosed that their inquiry began in response to four horse deaths within a mere three-week span during the summer.

?We actually started looking into this because there was a series of four deaths in just three weeks in the summer at the Hastings Racecourse,? Chantelle Archambault, the communications director for the Vancouver Humane Society told Global News.“These deaths have revealed several problems with how the horses are treated. They endure harsh training methods, painful tools like whips, and equipment that restricts their movement.”

?These horses are facing stress and risks to their lives at every stage of this process, including aversive training techniques, and the use of painful tools that are meant to strictly control their movements. And there are really inherent welfare risks that need to be meaningfully addressed,? she added.?These practices cause the horses unnecessary stress and significant dangers, and they need to be fixed right away.

Industry response and ongoing safety measures

The Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association of B.C., responsible for overseeing thoroughbred racehorses in the province, has emphasized its commitment to the safety and well-being of both equine and human athletes. President David Milburn acknowledged that they make every effort to guarantee a safe racetrack and race conditions. The Association has on-site veterinarians to check the horses before the races and supervise the riders’ preparation.

Despite the recent horse fatalities at the Hastings Racecourse, Milburn highlighted that accidents can happen in this industry. While three horses died during races this year, none did so in the previous year. He stressed that when a horse dies, it deeply affects the entire racing community because these horses are cherished by everyone involved.

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In response to each horse’s death, investigations are conducted to determine the causes and prevent such incidents in the future. ?Every effort is made to ensure that the track is safe, that the conditions are safe, and to protect the equine athletes ? the horses and the human athletes as well ? the jockeys. A lot of work goes into it,? Milburn said.

Concerns are rising in horse racing due to recent horse fatalities and welfare issues, particularly at Hastings Racecourse. Advocates call for reforms in aversive training techniques and equipment. The industry is committed to safety, with ongoing safety measures, but challenges remain. Global News is seeking Hastings Racecourse’s response to these concerns.

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