Mass slaughter of Australian racehorses prompts investigation

Footage of racehorses being allegedly mass slaughtered at abattoirs and knackeries in New South Wales and Queensland has prompted Australian officials to launch an investigation into suspected animal cruelty. Reportedly, the 'disturbing' footage shot before and at the time of slaughter which was aired on a news channel has aroused widespread anger. 

According to the report, many racehorses were being slaughtered in New South Wales and Queensland for pet food and human consumption. Such incidents are taking place despite industry rules that guarantee animal welfare.

In Australia, the slaughter of racehorses is not considered illegal as per laws. However, as per the rules of Racing NSW, the retired racehorses should be rehomed.

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"Destruction of animals on an industrial scale"

The mass slaughter has drawn criticism from people. Appalled at the practice, et and animal behaviour professional at Sydney University Paul McGreevy said that the destruction of animals is on an industrial scale. We are seeing animals suffering, he said speaking to foreign media. No one in the industry of racing can ever defend something like this, he added.

As per claims, around 300 racehorses have been slaughtered in a period of 22 days in an abattoir in Queensland. In 2017, the Racing NSW passed a rule that no retired racehorse would be sent to any slaughterhouse. The meat is sold for human consumption in Europe and Asia.

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People involved in the sport feel disgusted

Speaking about the footage, NSW Racing Minister Kevin Anderson said that it made the people involved in the sport feel disgusted. The national industry body, Racing Australia said that it should lead to serious legal action. Stating that it never had the potential to track retired racehorses, the body reiterated demands for a national register to be maintained. The industry has drawn backlash from the animal welfare groups such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) among many others. It said that the authorities did not have control over how the animals were treated. 

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(With inputs from agencies)