The world of horse racing is one of the most famous pastimes from around the world, with meetings taking place around Europe and North America all year round.
The biggest races such as the Kentucky Derby and the Grand National have huge prize pots available for winning owners, which makes it a popular business venture for those with big pockets to go into.
However, looking after a racehorse is no easy feat, as there is a lot of expenses that need to be taken into account. But, what exactly should you expect if you’re looking after a racehorse?
It has been revealed that the horse racing industry employs over 6,500 people to ensure that the needs of racehorses are adhered to. Their time on track is a small portion of their time, as the majority of their time is spent at the stables.
After a horse is brought, it will be the first job to decide on a trainer that will take care of the horse when it comes to conditioning and managing the equine animal.
This is undoubtedly the most important job when it comes to racing, as both of these factors will have a direct impact on the performance level of the horse when it steps out on the track. Trainers and handlers are the people that will see the horses on a day-to-day basis, and the leading trainers are that skilled in what they do that they can find health issues that a horse may have before they flare up and become a serious issue.
As we mentioned, conditioning is also important, as this will prepare the horse for the race that they will be running in. Keeping a horse mentally engaged is the best way to ensure that they safely return after a race. Trainers tend to differ when it comes to conditioning, but there is one general rule that is followed, and that involved talking to a horse and keeping to the same routine every day.
Schooling is a huge part of a horse’s life when it is first getting used to racing, and this will start from an early age. Depending on the breed, this will often mean different things, but ultimately it is when it is decided the distance and whether it is a jump or flat racer.
There is also attention on hoof care throughout a horses’ life, as this will ensure that the hoof doesn’t interfere with the horse’s performance or comfort when racing.
As well as that, one term that many racegoers would have heard of is a wind op. This is a simple procedure that ensures that the horse's lungs and airways are at their optimal function.
Not all horses will require this procedure, but all will have the mandatory vaccines that are required by the governing bodies.
The BHA runs over 1,400 fixtures throughout the season in the United Kingdom, and all of which only take place in the welfare of the horses passes tests that are in place.
Before the race, ice and heat therapies that are usually used on other elite athletes can be used to help with swelling and inflammation to make the horse feel as comfortable as possible.
The work isn’t done after the race has been completed, as the whole team looking after the horse will look over the animal to ensure that everything is normal and that no injuries have occurred.
As well as this the horse will also be cooled out, which is similar to a cooldown for elite athletes. This is where those working with the horse get the resting heartbeat down to a normal rate, as well as keeping the horse hydrated.
There you have it, some instructions on how to proceed with racehorses. To be informed on how to bet and what are the odds for the Kentucky Derby just click here. Readers, do you like to go to the races?
