The Pacific NW Racing Industry And Unwanted Ex Race Horses
I’m Susan Allen, One segment of unwanted horses that has been underreported here in the Northwest probably because our wild horse herds garner more attention when Open Range returns. Many folks aren’t aware that the Northwest is home to several horse racing tracks, the largest being Portland Meadows and Emerald Downs and until the recent economic downturn boasted a thriving Thoroughbred breeding industry on both sides of the Cascades meaning there are a lot of ex race horses who need second chances and careers. Thirty years ago when I worked at Bay Meadows race track in public relations organized rescues like we have today simply didn’t exist and in the case of one ex race horse I retrained, we figured things out by the seat of our pants, literally! Today the racing industry has become more accountable working with educational and rescue groups groups like the National Safety and Integrity Alliance Information Center for Thoroughbreds http://www.ntraaftercare.com/ that is targeted to anyone interested in getting involved with horses after their careers on the track are over. The Washington State Thoroughbred Breeders Association http://www.washingtonthoroughbred.com/ is a good resource for reputable rescue organizations throughout the west. Misconception that these horses only go on to English careers couldn’t be father from the truth.There are thoroughbreds on working and dude ranches, and I have friends that cover many back country miles on these athletes who exhibit incredible stamina and heart. Please remember that adopting a thoroughbred is not for the first time horse owner or novice rider as they have many issues. Second Chance Horses is a great book on what OTB throrughbreds can accompishif simply given a chance . HEochttp://www.exclusivelyequine.com/ViewProduct.aspx?productID=B11-1151(BHP)
