Jindalee Feedlot | The Land

Racing organisations have been slammed for dumping former racehorses when they are no longer profitable. It comes a day after the running of the Melbourne Cup, in which 22 horses from across the globe competed for $8 million in prize money. "It is incredibly deflating to see how quickly organisations and individuals relinquish the responsibility of their horse, once it no longer brings financial gain, consequently shifting the burden to the shoulders of our inspectorate," RSPCA NSW chief inspector Scott Meyers said. The charity currently has seven ex-racehorses available for rehoming, and combined the RSPCA has been caring for them for nearly 1000 days (2.5 years). "Rehoming ex-racehorses places an immense amount of pressure on animal rescue groups and not-for-profits like RSPCA NSW, both physically and financially. "These horses often come into our care with complex medical issues, after being abandoned by their owners when they no longer generate a profit." Racing NSW promotes its extensive equine welfare program, that includes tracing of ex-racehorses and advice for new owners to transition former thoroughbreds into their new life. IN OTHER NEWS Some ex-racehorses that have been unable to find a new home, are accepted for surrender to Racing NSW's six rehoming centres across the state. In 2023, the inaugural Equimillion race, launched by Racing NSW, will be held for retired thoroughbreds, with a minimum of $1 million in prizemoney on offer. In addition to the racehorses, RSPCA NSW is caring for 84 other horses. Of those, 67 are in protective custody and involved in legal action. While rescue horses make up one per cent of the intake of RSPCA animals in NSW, last financial year the charity spent more than $500,000 to look after and rehabilitate 176 horses. Mr Meyers has called on anyone who would like to adopt a horse to visit rspcansw.org.au/adopt. He said these horses will make wonderful pets and deserve a life beyond the finish post. ACM has contacted Racing Victoria for comment.

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