A Survey of Trainers on the Health and Welfare of Standardbred Racehorses in Prince Edward Island.

Overview

• This study surveyed Standardbred horse trainers in Prince Edward Island to assess the health and welfare of racehorses during their racing careers.
• The research aimed to fill a knowledge gap concerning welfare issues and public perceptions about the Standardbred racing industry.

Background and Importance

• The Standardbred racing industry is economically significant in North America and is expected to continue growing.
• Despite its economic role, public opinion often views the industry negatively due to concerns about the well-being of racehorses.
• There is limited scientific research specifically addressing the health and welfare conditions of Standardbred racehorses, creating a knowledge gap.

Research Methodology

• The study involved a survey conducted with equine trainers based in Prince Edward Island, where Standardbred racing is active.
• The survey focused on several key welfare indicators, including the prevalence of stereotypic behaviors and exercise practices during the racing season.
• It also examined the occurrence of injuries and illnesses that end a horse’s career or life, reflecting major welfare and public concern issues.

Key Findings

• Over 25% of trainers reported having at least one horse that exhibited stereotypic behaviors, which are repetitive, abnormal behaviors often linked to stress or poor welfare.
• There was substantial variability in how horses were given exercise time outside of training, with some horses having no pasture or paddock access and others receiving daily time outdoors during the racing season.
• Regarding serious health issues, 94% of trainers reported no life-ending injuries or illnesses in the previous year.
• However, 32% of trainers indicated that at least one horse experienced a career-ending injury or illness within the same time frame, showing room for improvement.

Implications and Recommendations

• The presence of stereotypic behaviors suggests a need for enhanced welfare practices to reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing of the horses.
• Variability in free-exercise access highlights the potential benefit of developing standardized exercise protocols to ensure consistent welfare standards.
• Since a minority of horses do suffer career- or life-ending conditions, further research into prevention and management strategies would be valuable.
• Implementing targeted welfare improvements could help address public concerns, improve racehorse health outcomes, and build greater trust in the Standardbred racing industry.

Conclusion

• This survey provides important insights into the welfare of Standardbred racehorses in PEI, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and welfare-focused industry practices.
• Addressing the identified health and welfare challenges will be critical to sustaining the industry’s growth and improving its public image.