RSPCA launches investigation into ATC horse cruelty claims

ATC Mounted Security
THE RSPCA NSW has launched an independent investigation into claims of cruelty to horses by the Australian Turf Club.

The nation’s top animal welfare body will commence its inquiry following claims that the ex-racehorses, which make up the ATC’s mounted security division, have been routinely subjected to drugging.

In addition to their race day duties, the horses are also available for hire at festivals and private functions.

“RSPCA NSW has received information regarding very serious allegations of animal cruelty by Australian Turf Club employees,” Steve Coleman, RSPCA NSW CEO, told Fairfax.

“These allegations include claims of the systematic drugging of horses to mask pain and distress caused by overriding, being forced to perform for long hours and other mistreatment.

“RSPCA NSW considers these allegations could be a major breach of animal welfare and are making further enquiries… to obtain information and evidence.”

Coleman said the thoroughbred racing industry could improve with the implementation of an independent integrity commission, such as the one soon to be introduced for the NSW greyhound racing industry.

The independent structure would alleviate any potential conflicts of interest.

“Similar issues to those outlined in these allegations have been addressed by the establishment of tri-code racing integrity commissions in both Victoria and Queensland that cover greyhound, harness and thoroughbred racing industries,” he said.

Evidence submitted at a Racing NSW inquiry revealed that the horses are sedated for much of their work using drugs such as sedazine paste and liquid acepromazine, also known as ACE, which is an injectable sedative that can only be legally administered by a vet.

Also alleged was that horses were given phenylbutazone, an anti-inflammatory drug, to mask pain caused by long, arduous shifts, poorly fitting saddles and general ill-treatment.

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Eleven witnesses have so far given evidence at the Racing NSW inquiry including Chantal Lunardon who gave an alarming testimony regarding the alleged routine drugging of the horses.

“Every time the horses were deployed for a security job, photo shoot or ridden through Centennial Park, they were sedated,” Lunardon said.

“I walked into the tack room and I observed them [staff] drawing up oral syringes of a liquid I knew to be ACE. I recognized ACE from my 20 years as a vet nurse.

“At this point, I observed one employee hold the head of the horse while another administered the ACE over its tongue.”

Whilst the controlling body is not expected to conclude its inquiry and deliver its findings until next month, the RSPCA have already approached Racing NSW for all investigation material and has already begun contacting witnesses.

The mounted security division have been missing from racecourses managed by the ATC for three months, with Racing NSW CEO Peter V’landys explaining the horses were relocated to a farm when the organization became aware of the allegations in January.

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