Retired Racehorses in Danger as Time Runs Out for Thoroughbred Aftercare

Maintaining horses is an expensive task and 2023 has not been kind to the Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare (CTA). With soaring inflation, dwindling support, and reduced donations, the organization faces a surge in rehab cases and an increasing number of horses in desperate need of help, all while operating costs skyrocket. CTA is now at a critical crossroads and urgently seeks the support of the community.

Since August 1st, CTA is no longer accepting new horses due to depleted funds for quarantine and transportation. In fact, the organization’s current equine residents will only have their necessities provided for the next 45 days, leaving CTA in a precarious position.

Will CTA’s equestrian legacy survive?

Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare is a non-profit organization. It has made a mark in the equestrian world by ensuring the well-being and aftercare of these magnificent creatures, offering them a second chance at life beyond the racing tracks. However, on-island adoptions have dwindled, leaving these deserving equines in limbo and prolonging their stay at the facility.

In a passionate plea, CTA is now urging the horse racing industry to join hands in creating a sustainable plan to support retired racehorses beyond their time on the track. With each passing day, countless horses teeter on the brink of an uncertain fate – the heartbreaking choice between euthanasia or abandonment. CTA stands as a beacon of hope for these majestic creatures, but the burden is immense and the resources are limited.

According to the Paulick Report, Chrissy Laughlin, Adoption Coordinator, and former board member said, “Responsible aftercare is an imperative duty of the racing industry—one that cannot be overlooked or ignored. As they profit from breeding and bringing these magnificent horses into Puerto Rico, it is incumbent upon the industry to step up and provide the essential funding for their lifelong well-being and care.”

Should the funds fall short, CTA will appeal for support in re-homing the piroplasmosis-positive horses on the island, ensuring they find loving homes that meet CTA’s pre-adoption criteria. While navigating through this crisis, a CTA co-founder highlighted other issues being faced by the organization.

CTA’s bureaucratic problems

CTA co-founder, Kelley Stobie, faces a daunting challenge. She constantly navigates bureaucracy and misunderstandings to secure the resources it needs to fulfill its vital mission. Back in 2021, the Gaming Division of the Puerto Rico Tourism Co. pledged a generous $65,000 to support CTA, meant to reimburse their monthly invoices and aid in their noble cause. However, despite submitting the necessary invoices, not a single penny has been received. Adding to their plight, there are misconceptions about CTA’s operations. Locals believe that the organization sells horses for substantial amounts, but the reality is quite different. Transporting horses to the States incurs significant costs, leading to financial losses for CTA. The adoption process, though noble, only covers a fraction of the expenses.

Read more: US Equestrian Grants More Than $128,000 to Enhance Community Outreach in the Country

For the past seven years, CTA has been a beacon of hope, providing a safe and nurturing environment for 288 horses that once graced the racetracks with their boundless energy and extraordinary talent. Among them, celebrated champions like Don Carlos R and Tito Discount now bask in the comfort of their well-deserved retirement at CTA, reveling in a life of tranquility and care.

Watch this story: Worth a Staggering $199,334,219 Retired Equestrian Legend Leads to Rare Honor