Reduction of Thoroughbred racing fatalities at New York Racing Association racetracks using a multi-disciplinary mortality review process
- 14 June 2017
- journal article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation
- Vol. 29 (4), 465-475
- https://doi.org/10.1177/1040638717713051
Abstract
Between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2015, findings of a New York State Gaming Commission–Cornell University postmortem examination program were utilized in a multi-disciplinary mortality review process to review 129 racing fatalities at Thoroughbred racetracks operated by the New York Racing Association (NYRA). Musculoskeletal fractures comprised 79% of the fatalities; cardiopulmonary conditions accounted for 12% of the fatalities. Other causes of death included gastrointestinal (3%), respiratory (5%), and central nervous system (2%) conditions. Fetlock failure represented 50% of the musculoskeletal fatalities. The general distribution of these findings was very similar to that reported by the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System during the same period. These findings, used in conjunction with a comprehensive mortality review process and regulatory reform, have contributed to a significant reduction of the incidence of Thoroughbred racing fatalities at NYRA racetracks during the period of this review.Keywords
Funding Information
- Harry M. Zweig Memorial Fund for Equine Research (478-8365)
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