New studies seek horse health and welfare advances
A simple blood test to help predict the injury risk of racehorses is among the study projects made possible by the inaugural Racing WA Research Fund grants. Racing WA Head of Animal Welfare Dr Anna Smet announced two projects had secured funding: A study into WA racehorse health and research on injury prevention. “We are […]
Meet three devoted animal people volunteering in the racing community
It’s one thing to pop our spare change into a collection tin or donate to a favourite charity but quite another to volunteer our time and skills to help others. Racing WA recently put The West Australian in contact with three inspirational people caring for animals and their communities. Greyhounds as Pets WA volunteer Frank […]
Pony races teach youngsters to look after their horses and each other
Speed ran a distant second to safety at the first National Pony Racing Series held at Ascot Racecourse recently. Lindy Maurice from Thoroughbred Industry Careers said she prioritised balance and control in choosing the riders who progressed from trial to race stage in the series, which is being held in collaboration with Pony Club Australia. […]
Joining forces to improve animal care
Martin Burns grew up riding farm bikes rather than horses so when he took on a leading animal welfare role in New Zealand racing, he searched for experts with the credentials he was missing. As Welfare and Sustainability General Manager at New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, Martin set out to build partnerships and collect knowledge, leading […]
Call to action for the future of greyhound racing
Bans, reviews and demands for closure are challenging the sustainability of greyhound racing and everyone involved in the sport shares the responsibility for building up trust. Veterinarian Dr Michelle Ledger delivered a rallying call at the first Racing and Wagering Western Australia greyhound welfare forum this week, saying there was more to do in educating, […]
Safeguarding horses and greyhounds for better racing experiences
Animal care in racing is moving towards a greater understanding of what physical and mental wellbeing means for racehorses and greyhounds – and meeting those needs. For people enjoying the racing experience at Ascot, the focus may be fashion, hospitality and a good vantage point to see the track but equestrian authority Julie Fielder turned […]
Confetti adds a sprinkle of happiness to Pete and Carly’s family
When Pete and Carly met greyhound Confetti they knew she was the extra burst of colour and fun they wanted in their home. The couple were looking for a dog to complete their family and Carly said Pete’s WA Police Union membership led them to the perfect pet. “In the past, we have had whippets […]
A clearer picture of racehorse health
The world’s most sophisticated equine CT scanner has arrived in Western Australia and workers are in the final stages of constructing the clinical unit ready for its installation at Murdoch University. Once complete, the advanced imaging centre at The Animal Hospital at Murdoch University (TAHMU) will feature state-of-the-art MRI and CT scanners, along with ‘day […]
Retired racehorses give students a reason to strive for success
A group of Busselton Senior High School students recently swapped class work for farm work during a horse-based program to reignite their enthusiasm for learning. The six boys, aged 12 to 16, spent time with former racehorses at Chris Scott’s Horse Vision Centre doing a program called EASE (Equine Assisted Student Education) involving groundwork, team […]
Riders play Power games in Collie
About 40 riders of all ages and abilities from across the state visited Collie recently for the HorsePower Winter Games. Collie manager Jo Williams said HorsePower, previously known as Riding for the Disabled, created the local event to bring people together in a fun and relaxed environment. “It’s important to give our riders the opportunity […]