AFTERCARE – IFAR

The IFAR Principles of Aftercare have been developed in collaboration with IFAR Steering Group member bodies and welfare specialists, drawing on the expertise of international governing bodies, and represent leading equine practice in managing the welfare and lifetime care of thoroughbreds.

There is now a better understanding and greater recognition that our shared responsibility for the welfare of racehorses extends beyond their career on the racetrack. With awareness of the versatility of former racehorses increasing and more success stories being promoted, the time is right to pool learnings from around the world so that best practice and standards can be applied internationally.
– Jamie Stier, Chairman, IFHA Welfare Committee and Executive General Manager, Integrity Services, Racing Victoria.

IFAR - PRINCIPLES OF AFTERCARE

To promote the care of thoroughbred horses during their lifetime.
This care should be in line with accepted veterinary standards, national practices and end-of-life management.
To make provision for the care and welfare of vulnerable former thoroughbred racehorses through an appropriate body/bodies.
To promote the suitability, adaptability and use of thoroughbred racehorses for a variety of equestrian activities so as to have an active life after racing, and raise awareness among racing’s participants and third parties of horse welfare and the lifetime care of thoroughbred racehorses.
To improve education for all those who own, use or care for thoroughbred racehorses with easier access to advice and guidance.
To facilitate cooperation between horseracing regulators and aftercare providers to communicate effectively, share information and develop greater expertise in all matters as they relate to the lifetime care, retraining, and second career options for the thoroughbred racehorse.
Agree that a national/international system for tracking thoroughbreds throughout their lives, including registered current ownership, is desirable in order to establish accountability and traceability.
To increase awareness within the international racing community, the sport horse world and the general public, of the role and benefits of IFAR and a much greater understanding of the position in relation to the activities of former racehorses.

THE AFTERCARE TOOLKIT

The Aftercare Toolkit has been developed by IFAR after several years of reviewing aftercare approaches from around the world, which reflect the Aftercare Principles. The Committee has selected six practical and proven initiatives that any jurisdiction can implement which will create a strong foundation for their aftercare framework. These are:

Lifecycle Management
Transitioning Strategies
Safety Net
Therapy horses and community engagement strategies
Thoroughbred Advocacy
Networking

Downloadable PDFs in English, French, Arabic, German, Spanish, and Turkish are available, and a video showcasing the Toolkit from the IFAR 2021 Conference is available here.