01/09/2025
No surprises here...
A new study shows that Thoroughbred foals given more outdoor turnout time and weaned later are more likely to succeed as racehorses, with increased starts and higher prize money during their young careers.
The research followed 129 foals from birth to age four, collecting detailed management data and tracking later racing outcomes.
Results consistently linked more time outside and later weaning to positive results, regardless of veterinary care, bloodlines, or farm differences.
Researchers propose that early activity encourages musculoskeletal adaptation, making horses more robust and possibly better at movement and sensory processing.
Ultimately, while industry focus remains on performance and profit, the evidence suggests that practices aligning with horse welfare—like turnout and gradual weaning—benefit both horses AND the business of racing.
Full study: https://beva.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/evj.70084?utm_medium=email&utm_source=substack
