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Originally Posted by chattiesmom  How many people have had the opportunity to visit the "behind the scenes" at tracks, stables, and the training farms? I can't say a lot because my personal experience is limited, but what I do have is first hand real life behind the scenes and not from the opinion made from the appearances of what appears to be well cared for horses and luxurious barns and beautifully well manicured pastures.
I would not argue that race horses generally get the best of grains, hays, and vet care. They are also started in training around 18 months - which is where a large part of the problems occur - horses don't mature until they are between 5 and 6 years of age. Had this magnificient filly been allowed to mature BEFORE she was trained and asked to run against the boys then perhaps she would have had the opportunity to win and live out her life as a happy life as a brood mare and produce great colts and fillies to carry on her name. As it is, her ankles gave out - and she was killed.
We haven't even begun to touch on the injury and loss of human life in the form of trainers, exercise boys and jockeys. If anyone has any doubt, try to find the video called "Jockey" - HBO: Jockey - Synopsis |
Actually, my ex husband ( I was actually married to him when he did) worked on a race horse farm and I've been behind the scenes several times. Been to Louisana Downs and the track in New Orleans and worked in the barn getting them ready and I've been around horses all my life
I'm not arguing or munching any one's face LOL...and I've been around some FABALOUS horse farms "behind the scenes" and the horses live better than I do. Unfortunately in all animal competitions you are going to have bad people. While I don't disagree that the young horses are started way too soon and while I also agree they shouldn't be running so young it's the way it is unfortunately. I however, believe that horses are strong animals and are magnificant and wonderful creatures! I've rode barrel horses most of my life and unfortunately I've seen some break down way before their time also.
It's not just horse racing it's also in rodeos like roping, barrel racing and then you have equsitirian (can't spell the word) as in jumping over fences...it's not just horse racing where animals can get hurt but it's a sport and accidents do happen it's part of life
But most of these horses are well taken care of....and like Dee said....lots of new rules involve all these sports like the steriods and lasix issue.
But, like I said again, I've probably watched my last race. But nothing more beautiful seeing a magnificant animal running with the wind...
Donna