I believe that if all racing establishments signed up to a code of conduct similar to this, it would go a long way in convincing the public that animal welfare is at the forefront of the racing industry’s ethos.

As racehorse trainers, we share a deep love for horses and recognise the importance of prioritising their welfare in all aspects of our profession. This proclamation serves as a blueprint for responsible racehorse training, outlining the steps we commit to taking in order to ensure that the well-being of our equine athletes is always at the forefront of our practices.

1. Pursue Continuous Education and Knowledge Sharing

We commit to staying informed about the latest research on equine health and well-being, and to applying this knowledge in our training and care practices. Furthermore, we pledge to share our expertise with the public and the racing community through workshops, articles, and other educational initiatives.

2. Maintain Transparency and Openness

We vow to be transparent in all aspects of our horseracing operations, openly sharing information on the living conditions, training methods, and care provided to our horses. We will welcome the public to observe our practices and keep them informed about the health and well-being of our horses through social media, blogs, and other channels.

3. Collaborate with Industry Experts

We promise to actively collaborate with equine veterinarians, animal welfare organisations, and other industry professionals in order to develop, promote, and implement best practices for racehorse care and training.

4. Advocate for Policy Change

We pledge our support for policies and regulations that prioritise animal welfare in horseracing, including restrictions on the use of drugs and other performance-enhancing substances, and the establishment of stricter penalties for those who violate these rules.

5. Prioritise Horse Welfare in Our Stables

We commit to creating an environment that prioritises the well-being of our horses, providing spacious and comfortable living conditions, ensuring adequate rest and recovery time between races, and utilising positive reinforcement training methods.

6. Support Aftercare Programmes

We pledge to actively support and participate in aftercare programmes that ensure retired racehorses receive proper care and have opportunities for second careers or safe retirement.

7. Measure Progress and Impact

We promise to regularly evaluate the impact of our efforts on equine welfare and to share this information with the public, maintaining accountability and ensuring that our commitment to the well-being of our horses remains unwavering.

By signing this proclamation, we, as racehorse trainers, affirm our dedication to upholding the highest standards of animal welfare within the UK & Irish racing industry. We call upon our fellow trainers to join us in embracing these principles and working together to create a future where the welfare of our equine athletes is always our top priority.