With the drop in temperature, all members of the racing community need to be on the alert and take extra care of their horses in cold weather.

The Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) has advised ORC Official Veterinarians and racing officials at all racetracks to remind participants to take the necessary steps to protect the animals.

While racehorses in Canada are conditioned to race in cold weather, trainers should adapt for cold weather practices. For example, don’t tie tongues in such a manner that they protrude from the mouth. Tongues are very susceptible to freezing when temperatures drop.

As well, horses need to be warmed up adequately. Offering lukewarm water several times a day will counter any reluctance to drink ice-cold water, which can leave some horses dehydrated in winter.

Any concerns about weather conditions impacting racing should be shared with horsepeople representatives, racing officials, track management and the Official Veterinarian. 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.

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)