DEATH AT HORSE RACETRACKS

Although this article is specifically about horse racing in the United States, it stands to reason that similar practices take place in Australia.

The use of prescription drugs in horse racing has sparked significant controversy, raising concerns about the ethical practices surrounding the treatment of racehorses.

Susan Kayne, the owner of Bourbon Bandit, only discovered the extent of medication her horse had been given after a serious injury. Veterinarians had regularly administered clenbuterol, a controversial drug meant for respiratory issues but often used to enhance performance by building muscle, akin to anabolic steroids.

Shocked, Kayne, like many other horse owners, realized that she had been left out of important decisions regarding her horse’s treatment and that the veterinarian involved may have been financially motivated to prescribe drugs.

This issue is widespread within the industry.

Veterinarians, who are supposed to prioritize animal welfare, often face pressure to keep horses racing at the cost of their long-term health.

Sadly, it is in the financial interest of vets to over-prescribe.

Trainers, focused on winning, often make decisions about medication, leaving veterinarians in a difficult position.

Again, the financial incentives are also clear: veterinarians who work with race horses earn most of their income from prescribing and administering drugs, unlike their counterparts treating small animals, whose income is derived from professional services like exams and surgery.

The issue extends to the regulatory framework of the sport.

While some trainers argue that prescription drugs can help horses recover and remain competitive, there’s a clear conflict of interest when drug regimens mask underlying injuries, leading to fatal breakdowns.

The alarmingly high number of deaths on and at American, Australian and other racetracks highlights the dangers of overmedication and its potentially deadly consequences.

While clenbuterol and other drugs like furosemide are legal when used appropriately, their widespread and often abusive use has become a growing concern.

Misuse of clenbuterol, for instance, can lead to severe health issues, and yet it remains a favoured drug for its muscle-building properties.

Some veterinarians, like Dr. Gregory L. Ferraro, have left the industry after growing disillusioned with this over-reliance on medications, which he believes is damaging the sport and endangering horses.

In contrast, regions like Hong Kong offer a more tightly regulated model, where veterinarians are directly employed by racing authorities and treatments must follow strict guidelines. This system – although far from perfect –  limits the abuse of drugs like clenbuterol and again, while far from perfect – prioritizes the health of the horse over competition success.

As the debate rages on, many within the industry agree that change is needed.

Ethical concerns over the commodification of racehorses and the financial pressures that fuel the rampant overuse of prescription drugs underscore the need for tighter regulation and a shift in the industry’s approach to equine health.