How to Report Race Horse Abuse
Whenever humans and animals interact, there's potential for animal abuse. Although some people involved in the industry may deny it, the racing industry is no exception. Tempers flare and anger may be taken out on a losing horse, or someone may drug a racehorse to improve the animal's performance. Reporting abuse can improve the sport and protect the beautiful horses that make it so exciting to watch.
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Instructions
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Recognize the signs of abuse. A horse with sores that don't heal or with numerous welts over its body may be the victim of abuse. Watch for horses being whipped around their heads and faces, being hit with things other than a riding whip, or being repeatedly beat with a riding whip. Some trainers and jockeys will take out their anger on their horses, so pay attention to the demeanor of the people involved if you see something that looks like abuse. Also look for horses who are lame or sore.
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Identify the signs of drugging. This is more common than overt abuse, but it's also more difficult to spot. Generally, the horse must undergo blood and urine testing to prove drugging. However, if you notice a sluggish horse suddenly acting energetic, be watchful. Generally, people drug horses to increase their energy and performance, putting the animal at greater risk of injury.
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Identify the signs of neglect. Horses who go without water, horses who go without food, horses who are severely underweight and horses who are weak may be suffering from neglect.
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Find out the name of the horse or at least be able to describe the animal in detail. Also be ready to describe and identify the abusers. If possible take photos or videos of the abuse. However, remember that this isn't legal in all states and situations.
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Report the abuse to the local county animal services department. If the abuse occurred within city limits, this may be animal control, the animal shelter or the police department. If the abuse occurred outside city limits, this may be the sheriff's department, animal control or the livestock officer. Also identify the state racing commission. If the abuse happens at a race track, report the incident to a racing steward or other track official.
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Contact the racetrack or the facility at which you witnessed the abuse. Speak to the manager about your concerns. It's important that he know what's happening at his facility. Informing him can lead to greater cooperation among all of the involved parties.
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Follow up with the officials to see what is being done. Offer your assistance in the form of statements, photos or videos (if you have them) and testimony.
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When reporting a neglect or abuse case, be prepared to be called to testify in a trial or hearing. Officials cannot prosecute or punish offenders without witnesses, so your testify may make a huge difference to the horses involved.
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