The annual Kentucky Derby took place on May 3rd this year. Many people watched the Derby to place bets on the horses that they think will win or want to support. However, many people have no idea what goes on behind the scenes of horse-racing.

Horses that are used for racing are typically not well cared for and often abused. In an effort to maximize profits, owners begin racing their horses at just two years of age, causing broken bones and other life-altering injuries to their undeveloped bodies. In 2023, 12 young horses died at the Derby from injuries. Horses that are bred for racing that don’t make it to competition levels are sent from the US to countries like Canada or Mexico to be euthanized. Despite this fact, there are still about 20,00 Thoroughbred foals bred annually for racing. Even the horses that actually make it to the levels necessary to compete at races like the Derby only compete for about 2 years due to the injuries that they suffer. These horses are then killed because the owners don’t want to pay for proper medical treatment and care for their horse. 

Horses are also abused by jockeys who use illegal electric shock devices to force them to run faster. Horses are also given different types of drugs to mask their injuries and make them seem “fine”. In addition to the large number of racehorses that are euthanized, many horses die on the track from Exercise Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage, a fatal lung ailment where blood bleeds into the lungs during or after strenuous exercise. There are very few laws and regulations that protect a racing horse’s welfare and the government rarely enforces them. 

People who attend horse racing events should be aware of what they are supporting. Celebrities glamorize racing events in their social media posts but are most likely unaware of the death and despair that the horses suffer daily. If people knew the truth about horse racing, maybe they would stop patronizing the races and even speak out.