The Ontario Racing Commission reminds all members of the racing community to be on the alert and take extra care of their horses in cold weather. ORC Official Veterinarians and racing officials at all racetracks will remind participants to take the necessary steps to protect the animals.

Dr. Adam Chambers, ORC Manager of Veterinary Services, suggests that racing officials, horsepeople representatives, track management and the Official Veterinarian share any concerns about weather conditions impacting racing. As with increased temperatures in summer, there is an established policy of allowing a trainer to scratch their horse should the trainer be concerned about the particular condition of the animal due to weather.

“Good information on the care of horses can be found on the ORC website,” said Chambers. “For example, don’t tie tongues in such a manner that they protrude from the mouth. Tongues are very susceptible to freezing when temperatures are bitter.”

He also reminded horsepeople that horses need to be warmed up adequately, and that offering lukewarm water several times a day will counter any reluctance to drink ice-cold water, which can leave some horses dehydrated in winter. ORC posters which are displayed in racetrack paddocks are another good source of information.

ORC Guidelines on care for horses in cold weather

The protection of the health and welfare of the horse is of paramount concern to the ORC and to members of the racing community. An effort to monitor the horse in weather extremes is in keeping with this mandate.

(ORC)