The Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) is currently distributing 4,000 USB sticks packed with information on how to prevent horses from getting sick to racehorse caregivers in all 10 Ontario race tracks paddocks and race offices as well as approximately 20 major training centres.
The USB sticks include unique whiteboard videos introducing the basics of understanding good infection control practices and how these practices can be applied at home and at the track. Testimonial videos from industry leaders of all three horse racing disciplines talk about their biosecurity practices. This is followed by videos of international expert, Dr. Scott Weese, providing a guided tour through a training centre and racing facility pointing out the key areas to focus on to make sure horses are protected from germs and ready to race. PDF’s of biosecurity checklists and barn posters are also included.
In partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Equine Guelph is developing a ‘Full-Circle-Responsibility’ equine welfare educational initiative which stands to benefit horses in both the racing and non-racing sectors.
This project is funded in part through Growing Forward 2 (GF2), a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council assists in the delivery of GF2 in Ontario.
Other partners include: Central Ontario Standardbred Association, Equine Canada, Grand River Agricultural Society, Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Ontario Harness Horse Association, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ontario Racing Commission, Ontario Veterinary College, Quarter Horse Racing Association, Standardbred Canada and Vétoquinol Canada Inc.
More from Canadian Thoroughbred:
