While circuses and rodeos might attract the most attention from activist, there is one sect of animal abusers whom are often over looked. Those who participate and watch horse races are among the most despicable animal abusers. On May 3, 2008 a horse named Eight Belles broke both ankles in her front legs, she was euthanized shortly afterwards. The owner was quoted in a NY Times article, stating that he does not regret placing Eight Belles in the Kentucky Derby, a decision that ultimately led to her death. He goes even further to express his desire to defend horse racing as a sport.

There are some ugly parts of it, obviously. There are also some spectacular parts of it. There are ugly parts of every sport. There are people who get paralyzed in football. This is a tragedy that happens in horse racing. It’s hard to put the blame any particular way. It’s part of horse racing.

There is a distinct difference between football accidents and the one that occurred earlier this week. A football player chooses to go out and play on the field. The horses in these races are slaves, forced to participate in events where they have nothing to gain. Horse racing is hardly what one would consider a sport, rather it is a repetitive act of unnecessary cruelty that needs to be put to a stop.

How can we make a difference?

• Do not attend horse races
• Inform others of the cruelties of the industry
• Protest horse races and the building of new tracks
• Write to Congress and tell them that horse racing must be banned

Categories: Articles
Tags: Activism, animal rights, features, horse racing, ny times, protest