The health and well-being of the racehorse is of paramount concern to the industry. Being one of the four action items in its mission statement, the Ontario Racing Commission has acted proactively to establish rules and develop education plans to ensure a high standard of health and care of the animal.

Beauty, strength, and athleticism - the racehorse evokes many things in different people. To the industry that relies upon it, the care and well-being of the horse is vital to its ongoing success.

As part of its commitment to protecting the horse, the ORC has implemented a number of regulatory initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for the animals.

The following links provide a guide to the resources on this web site dealing more specifically with the horse.

2005 Press Release - Criminal charges laid in horse abuse case
The ORC Investigative Unit assisted in a joint investigation that resulted in criminal charges being brought against individuals in a case of horse abuse that occurred in January 2005.
 
Horse Death Registry
All horses which die within 60 days of having raced in Ontario must be registered.

Adoptions Societies
In response to a need to look after racehorses once their racing career has ended, adoption societies have developed with the aim of finding these horses adoptive homes and perhaps alternative careers as riding horses or as companions.

Horse Improvement Programs
Funds generated from wagering and the slots program flow into breed improvement programs aimed at bettering the Ontario horse racing animal.

Cold Weather care for the Horse
A tips list on ways to help horses cope with the cold weather.

ORC requires all racetracks to file Backstretch Fire Safety Plans
As part of their annual filings to obtain a licence, racetracks are required to file Backstretch Fire Safety Plans with the Commission

Heat Exhaustion Action Plan
Summer 2004
The Commission approved an education initiative, advising horsepeople and the general public on the potential for heat exhaustion in horses during the hot weather.

The Role of the Official Veterinarian
Summer 2004
All participants in racing have a vested interest in safeguarding the health and welfare of their equine partners, but for the Official Veterinarian, it is also their job.

Equine Herpes Virus Alerts
Winter 2005
Acting to protect Ontario racehorse population, the ORC Administration put in place a number of procedures in Ontario in response to outbreak of Equine Viral Rhinopneumonitis in neighbouring jurisdictions.