RSPCA to send Inspectors to Grand National
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) will be sending a team of Inspectors with experience in racing, eventing and point-to-point and specific training in equine welfare to this year's Grand National in an effort to safeguard the welfare of the horses. They will be joined by senior personnel including a Chief Inspector, a Superintendent and equine consultant David Muir. The equine inspectors will also be present at Aintree throughout three-day meet prior to the world famous event.
Commenting, Mr Muir said “The British Horseracing Authority and Aintree management have agreed to continue to take into account the RSPCA’s concerns and explore the means of further reducing the risk factors to horses. Once again I would like to remind jockeys although I am aware of their desire in wanting to win, it must not be at all costs. Overly tired horses and those not in contention should be pulled up to ensure their safe return to stables, the paramount factor in racing.”
The RSPCA's dedicated equine team were established recently in response to the present 'horse crisis'. The charity is currently caring for approximately 500 horses and ponies that have been abandoned by their owners, which is a figure 70% than the same point last year.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
