Racehorse retirement off to a good start thanks to partnership

Racehorses are on track for a better retirement thanks to subsidised vet care made possible through a new partnership between the University of Adelaide and Racing SA.

Owners of retired racehorses will be able to save 20 per cent on selected vet treatments at Roseworthy Veterinary Hospital within the first 12 months of adopting a horse.

“Retired racehorses have quite specific care requirements and after years of following a high energy diet and lifestyle, it can take some time for them to adjust to the slower pace of life off the track,” said the University of Adelaide’s Dr David MacPhail, Director of the Roseworthy Veterinary Hospital.

“Through this vet care program, we can help guide new owners about their healthcare needs, including dietary and dental care.

“We hope this program will encourage the adoption of racehorses, who are often still young when they retire and have many years of life ahead,” he said.

The program also gives veterinary students the opportunity to assist with the general inspections of horses to see if there any ongoing medical issues, including conditions such as lameness and stomach ulcers.

“This partnership gives the next generation of veterinary students real life experience working with horses in a healthcare setting and provides newly retired racehorses with an even better chance to flourish in their new careers,” said Dr MacPhail.

"This partnership gives the next generation of veterinary students real life experience working with horses in a healthcare setting and provides newly retired racehorses with an even better chance to flourish in their new careers."Dr David MacPhail, Director, Roseworthy Veterinary Hospital, University of Adelaide.

Of the 300 horses that retire from racing in South Australia each year, a significant number are re-homed in the Roseworthy area, with many finding new careers in the equestrian and breeding sectors.

Up to 60 of these horses are expected to access the subsidised healthcare each year and this has been added to the Retired Thoroughbred Racehorse Assistance Package that Racing SA’s welfare arm - Thorough Care SA - offers to all SA thoroughbred racehorses transitioning into retirement.

“The welfare of our horses is our top priority and to now have access to world-renowned veterinary care at the University of Adelaide’s Roseworthy Veterinary Hospital is a great initiative,” said Racing SA’s Industry Operations Manager, John Cornell.

“On top of everything else we’re doing with nutrition and cryotherapy, our partnership with the University of Adelaide’s Roseworthy Veterinary Hospital is a win-win for everybody.”

The program will commence mid-2023.

To access the program, contact the Roseworthy Veterinary Hospital.