JRA implement extra measures against "disaster-level heat" to protect racehorses
Friday, 01 September, 2023 18:55
Mist sprayers in the parade ring (c)netkeiba.com
This summer has seen a prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius in various parts of Japan. It has resulted in a record number of days when the mercury has registered over 35 degrees in Tokyo for the year. The impact of this heatwave has inevitably extended to the horse racing industry with the unfortunate death of Ask Victor More, 2022 G1 Kikuka Sho winner, succumbing to heatstroke and multiple organ failure while in pasture this month. The current weather conditions have been described as "disaster-level heat" by the Japanese Meteorological Agency.
Looking ahead to next summer, plans are being made to suspend races during the hottest part of the day, but in the meantime, we spoke with the JRA about the measures in place to protect racehorses from the heat.
When we talk about extreme heat, one of the first concerns is heatstroke. Heatstroke occurs when the body is exposed to high temperatures and high humidity for an extended period, causing the body's temperature regulation mechanisms to become ineffective. This leads to a buildup of heat within the body, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, fatigue, and more.
According to the JRA's spokesperson, racehorses can generally experience symptoms similar to those in humans when it comes to heat-related issues. After races or intense exercise, they may appear dizzy, exhibit muscle pain and cramps, repeatedly kick their hind legs, and have difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, they can experience consciousness disorders and become immobile, although this is rare. It's important to note that these symptoms could be caused by factors other than heatstroke, so a considered veterinary diagnosis is necessary.
Recovery from heatstroke in horses primarily involves lowering the horse's body temperature. It's crucial to immediately apply water to the horse's body while keeping it in a cool, shaded area. Simultaneously, ensure the horse has access to water for drinking and provide salt supplementation. In more severe cases, intravenous fluid therapy may be necessary to rapidly replenish electrolytes and other essential substances in the horse's body.
In recent years, there have been days in Hokkaido where temperatures exceeded 30 degrees Celsius, prompting the JRA to implement various measures to prevent the rise in horse body temperatures before races. These measures include increasing shade areas at the pre-parade rings and using mist sprayers to cool the equine athletes. After races, showers are installed at various locations for rapid cooling of the horse's body. Furthermore, electrolyte supplements are provided in the racehorse clinics to ensure that stable staff can promptly administer them to the horses if needed. These comprehensive efforts are aimed at safeguarding the well-being of the horses in hot conditions.
According to a JRA spokesperson, the number of racehorses experiencing heatstroke has remained relatively stable at around 40 horses per year since the JRA began implementing proactive measures to combat heat and hot weather in 2018. It appears that these measures have been effective in preventing a significant increase in heat-related issues among racehorses.
Starting next year, as part of the new heat countermeasures, horse racing outside of the Hokkaido region will be suspended during the hours when the risk of heatstroke is significantly high. The first race will start around 9:30 AM, with five races held in the morning. A break is scheduled from around 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, and the final race is expected to be around 6:30 PM. Additionally, there are considerations to shorten the paddock parade time and adjust the assembly time at the pre-parade ring area as part of these measures.
The recent heat waves pose a significant risk to both humans and racehorses. While it's encouraging to see new measures being put in place to address this issue, it's crucial to continue monitoring the situation and take all necessary steps to ensure the well-being of both athletes and animals. Here's hoping for improved conditions and safety for everyone involved.
Looking ahead to next summer, plans are being made to suspend races during the hottest part of the day, but in the meantime, we spoke with the JRA about the measures in place to protect racehorses from the heat.
When we talk about extreme heat, one of the first concerns is heatstroke. Heatstroke occurs when the body is exposed to high temperatures and high humidity for an extended period, causing the body's temperature regulation mechanisms to become ineffective. This leads to a buildup of heat within the body, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, fatigue, and more.
According to the JRA's spokesperson, racehorses can generally experience symptoms similar to those in humans when it comes to heat-related issues. After races or intense exercise, they may appear dizzy, exhibit muscle pain and cramps, repeatedly kick their hind legs, and have difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, they can experience consciousness disorders and become immobile, although this is rare. It's important to note that these symptoms could be caused by factors other than heatstroke, so a considered veterinary diagnosis is necessary.
Recovery from heatstroke in horses primarily involves lowering the horse's body temperature. It's crucial to immediately apply water to the horse's body while keeping it in a cool, shaded area. Simultaneously, ensure the horse has access to water for drinking and provide salt supplementation. In more severe cases, intravenous fluid therapy may be necessary to rapidly replenish electrolytes and other essential substances in the horse's body.
In recent years, there have been days in Hokkaido where temperatures exceeded 30 degrees Celsius, prompting the JRA to implement various measures to prevent the rise in horse body temperatures before races. These measures include increasing shade areas at the pre-parade rings and using mist sprayers to cool the equine athletes. After races, showers are installed at various locations for rapid cooling of the horse's body. Furthermore, electrolyte supplements are provided in the racehorse clinics to ensure that stable staff can promptly administer them to the horses if needed. These comprehensive efforts are aimed at safeguarding the well-being of the horses in hot conditions.
According to a JRA spokesperson, the number of racehorses experiencing heatstroke has remained relatively stable at around 40 horses per year since the JRA began implementing proactive measures to combat heat and hot weather in 2018. It appears that these measures have been effective in preventing a significant increase in heat-related issues among racehorses.
Starting next year, as part of the new heat countermeasures, horse racing outside of the Hokkaido region will be suspended during the hours when the risk of heatstroke is significantly high. The first race will start around 9:30 AM, with five races held in the morning. A break is scheduled from around 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, and the final race is expected to be around 6:30 PM. Additionally, there are considerations to shorten the paddock parade time and adjust the assembly time at the pre-parade ring area as part of these measures.
The recent heat waves pose a significant risk to both humans and racehorses. While it's encouraging to see new measures being put in place to address this issue, it's crucial to continue monitoring the situation and take all necessary steps to ensure the well-being of both athletes and animals. Here's hoping for improved conditions and safety for everyone involved.