RACING FORUM

Posted: **Tue Jul 01, 2014 23:18 pm**

The welfare of Australia's thoroughbred racehorses will be greatly enhanced by the introduction of new national regulations designed to capture more information about their transition to life after racing. Effective immediately, the Australian Racing Board (ARB) has introduced a new rule (64JA) making it compulsory for owners to report the retirement of their racehorse within 30 days to the industry's data provider, Racing Information Services Australia (RISA). Managing owners will be responsible for articulating the reason/s for their horse's retirement and their plans for the horse beyond its racing career. In addition to the new retirement of racehorse rule for owners, the rule requiring trainers to notify authorities of the death of a racehorse in their care has been strengthened (64J). Trainers will also be asked to inform authorities of the cause of the death. Racing Victoria (RV) Head of Equine Welfare and Veterinary Services, Dr Brian Stewart, has welcomed the introduction of what he described as a significant welfare initiative for the industry. "These important enhancements to the Rules of Racing will provide access to information about why racehorses are retired as well as details about their life after racing – equipping the industry with knowledge which will help direct future welfare activities," Dr Stewart said.