U of C veterinary experts to research how to prevent injuries and death in racehorses

A research study by U of C veterinary experts will look into how to prevent injuries and death in racehorses.

Veterinary experts at the University of Calgary will study racehorses in hopes of preventing injuries and deaths.

The research will be funded with $185,000 from Horse Racing Alberta.

Thoroughbred, American quarter horse and standardbred horses will have wearable technology to monitor the length and speed of their stride during races.

The funding will enable a Ph.D student to help conduct the research.

Statistics from racetracks around North America show that for every 1,000 starts, just over one horse will die.

Two Alberta racetracks – Century Downs near Calgary and Century Mile near Edmonton – are part of that database.

Message from Horse Racing Alberta

Horse Racing Alberta posted a message on its Facebook page Thursday afternoon.

“We are proud to support this groundbreaking research from Dr. Pfau and his team at the University of Calgary," it said. "This partnership reflects our commitment to advancing safety in horse racing.

“By funding this vital work we can contribute to injury prevention for all of our racing breeds," it added. "Together with Dr. Pfau’s team we are taking steps to ensure the future of racing is safer for all of our equine athletes.

“Thank you to everyone involved in this initiative for your dedication to equine welfare!"