Prepared by: Caroline Carswell Prepared for: the National Thoroughbred Racing Association

What is Equine Water Therapy? Combination of a whirlpool, massaging jets, warm water, and an underwater treadmill A technique of physical rehabilitation for horses after injury or surgery

Why is this therapy needed? Horseracing is a very intensive sport, injuries are common Horse injuries are very hard to deal with, physically and economically The Problem: Racehorses with severe injuries are commonly euthanized due to the lack of other options

Possible Solutions 1. Euthanasia (No change) 2. Lay-off with exercise plan 3. Water Therapy

Criteria for Solution Evaluation Recovery Time Horse’s Comfort Cost Extra Advantages

Evaluating Solution 1: Recovery time not applicable Horse would feel no pain Cost can range between $100 -$500 for an owner per horse Disposal may cost more Would not have to pay any other bills such as for surgery or rehabilitation

Evaluating Solution 2: Recovery time can vary by injury Need proper time for healing Exercise plan a slow and gradual process Horse’s Comfort During lay-off, cannot exercise or work When exercise starts, may still have pain Cost will be minimal Would only have to pay for needed medical care Horse will not need to be put-down

Evaluating Solution 3: Recovery Time can be reduced by 50-60% Horses comfortable Get to exercise and work Lessens stress on joints/muscles Cost of installation costly $40,000-$80,000 for hydrotherapy set-up, installation and accessories Horse will not need to be put down Can also be used for fitness training for healthy horses

Recommendation: Solution 3: Equine Water Therapy is the best solution Benefits of water Buoyancy, Resistance Reduced weight bearing of 40-60% Lessens stress on joints Cardiovascular work, healthy heart Rebuilds muscles without strain Re-injury less likely Although installation is costly, it will pay off in the end as it is needed by many horses, and can be used regularly

Recommendation: These water therapy rehabilitation centers should be made more readily available to those who need it Things you can do: Informing trainers and owners of this option of rehab Projects of building more therapy centers near popular racetracks

Example of an Equine Water Therapy Facility

Works Cited Christoffersen, Christy. "Equine Hydrotherapy - Water Therapy Helps Horses Heal Faster." Associated Content from Yahoo! 23 Aug Web. 25 Mar "Horse Owners and Trainers." Ferno Veterinary Underwater Dog & Horse Treadmills. Web. 27 Mar Stephens, Stephanie. "Equine Water Works." Hydro Horse LLC: Equine Treadmill Systems. Equineoriginals.com. Web. 27 Mar