Characteristics of Adopted Thoroughbred Racehorses in Second Careers.

The research study examines the factors that influence the adoption, rehoming, and return of retired racehorses in the United States.

Objectives and Methodology

• The main purpose of the study was to better understand the problem of ‘unwanted horses’ in the U.S. and minimize its prevalance.
• It sought to identify specific characteristics of thoroughbred racehorses that affected their stay duration at adoption facilities and the likelihood of their return post-adoption.
• Data was collected nationwide from organizations that rescue, retrain, and rehome these unwanted horses.

Key Findings

• The study observed that horses with fewer activity limitations were more quickly rehomed.
• It was also found that gray horses, as compared to bay ones, and stallions, as opposed to geldings, were also more quickly rehomed.
• On the contrary, older horses took a longer time to be rehomed.
• A surprising finding was that gray horses were more likely to be returned to the adoption facility post-adoption.

Implications

• These results are potentially beneficial for retired thoroughbred racehorses, ensuring they find appropriate second homes faster.
• Non-profit organizations working with these horses may refine their adoption strategies based on the findings.
• End consumers or adopters could be guided by these insights in choosing a suitable horse.
• The thoroughbred racing industry can also consider these factors for transitioning their retired horses.