RACING professionals and members of the public are invited to take part in an online survey on thoroughbred welfare standards which has been put together by the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board [IHRB].
Described as a public consultation, the survey aims to assist the IHRB in drafting new thoroughbred welfare standards to safeguard racehorse welfare, ensure accountability, and protect the reputation of Irish racing.
“We are now seeking the views of the public on whether the draft standards are clear, practical, and proportionate,” the IHRB said. The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and is anonymous although there is a facility to leave your contact details.
The survey begins by asking if the participant is a trainer, owner, stable employee, jockey, veterinarian or a member of the general public. Respondents are then asked to consider proposed wordings of ‘welfare standards’, as composed by the IHRB, and give their opinion as to whether the statement is clearly understandable, practical, proportionate and effective.
Topics covered include proposed industry standards for social interaction for horses, nutrition, water, freedom of movement, health management, preventative health programmes, environment (stabling and transport), training surfaces and retirement planning.