Posted on Monday, 12th December 2011 by admin
Thoroughbreds that come right off the track might have some behavioral issues as well as health issues such as an injury sustained while racing. Some horses also are given drugs such as steroids. The majority of thoroughbreds spend 23 hours of the day in stalls and this can lead to anxiety and stress. Taking on a thoroughbred that has just retired from the track can be a challenging task but it certainly can be rewarding when you see the horse blossom, emotionally.
Thoroughbreds that come off the track still have a long future ahead of them and can do well in competitions such as dressage, western, hunter, or even jumping. Patience and the right kind of training are essential in the succession of taking a retired racer and turning it into a competition horse. As long as you are familiar with how race horses are trained and how they usually spend their lives, it is possible for you to be successful in helping your horse in this transition period of their life.
Race horses take a special kind of spirit. Fighters with strong spirits usually end up as breeders and the ones that don’t have as much “fight” in them usually get sold or rehomed. However with perseverance and dedication, one can turn those into magnificent animals with big hearts, by giving them a second chance.
Yes, off the track thoroughbreds are a good idea if you are prepared for the responsibility that comes with an ex racer. Be prepared to deal with any possible health issues and psychological problems such as claustrophobia as well. It may be hard but the end result is worth it, especially when you see that horse that used to be cooped up 23 hours a day, be able to enjoy life as a real horse.