What is your view on horse racing?

I am totally against it. For every thousand horses bred for the industry , 5 will make it to race a big race, the majority of the rest are put down, or put to dog food.

by pippa

The way it has been in the past and to some extent still now, I am against it:

1. Using whips to make the horses run faster is a form of animal cruelty.
2. Making the barriers so high that some horses end up falling, getting injured, and even dying, is a form of animal cruelty.

I don't think whips are allowed anymore, but the barriers are still too high, and many horses suffer many injuries - some fatal.

If the fences were made lower, and any other form of cruelty I'm not aware of were dealt with, then I would be okay with it.

by Bryony Harrison

I hate horse racing with a passion, just as I hate all animal racing in general - it's just cruel!

by Valadhiel

My family has always been involved with harness racing in different ways. I know there are many things that happen that aren't great for horses, but many horses being raced live love and presumably happy lives.

I believe horses should be allowed to race until they're at least three years of age, and they shouldn't be over-raced. A horse can damage itself just frolicking in a paddock, but yes, racing can be dangerous too. Life's like that though, good things happpen, and bad things happen.

It's certainly an issue worth much thought.

by carolyncordon

oops, that should have been should NOT be raced until three years

Whenever money and animals are in the same equation it always equals abuse and Ill treatment
I am totally opposed to horse racing and any animal gambling/ racing

by susie

It's abuse and exploitation, pure and simple. Horse racing, whether it be jumps, harness and so on, is completely barbaric and unnecessary. When I ask people why they go to the races, they answer that it is because of the fashion and drinks. Going to the races is basically for vanity reasons, and the horses deserve better than that. Animals Australia has published some information regarding the racing industry. Please have a look http://www.animalsaustralia.org/issues/horse_racing.php

by crueltyfreechick

I went to a Melbourne cup once. Going through the gates I was accosted by protestors. Admittedly it put a real dampener on the day and while I did place a couple of bets, it made me look into it more when I got home. It all really saddened me and I can say I've never been back to a horse race since nor made any bets. I feel the same way with greyhound racing.

by erin.