NSPCA demands action on horse racing welfare issues

THE National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) said they recently met with the National Horseracing Authority (NHA) to address urgent concerns raised about the #ReinInThePain campaign commercial.

- STAFF REPORTER

They said the use of tongue-ties, excessive crop use, and the racing of underage horses - all practices that compromise equine welfare was a concern.

NSPCA added they were deeply concerned about whether a regulatory body so reliant on the success of the commercial side of horse racing can consistently and objectively enforce animal welfare standards.

They stated that during the meeting, the NHA suggested that the NSPCA change its official Statement of Policy which opposes animal racing to “engage productively” with them.

Dr Bryce Marock, Consulting Veterinarian of the NSPCA explained: “As the custodians of animal welfare in South Africa, we cannot and will not compromise our legal mandate to protect animals simply to make collaboration easier.”