Article in Wash Post about after horses are done racing
 

Is there a solution?

I hate seeing horses neglected. But I hate seeing them sent to slaughter. The number of thoroughbreds foaled each year virtually guarantees both.

What can we do about it?

In California, they actually take a tiny bit of money out of every purse to go towards horse rescue. It's a very small amount. I think it's about $100 a race. Considering that the average purse is around $40,000, I think they can afford to take $100 out. If an owner is really cheap, I think they are allowed to opt out of the program but I don't think too many people opt out.

I don't think taking a small amount out of every purse can totally solve the problem but it can at least put a dent in it. I have no problem with them taking a small amount out of the purses. As I said, taking around $100 out of a $40,000 purse is nothing. That's not going to hurt anyone. They should probably take out a little more.

I'm in favor of sending more trainers to slaughter

Similarly I read where the Jockey Club has a program where owners and breeders can add a donation (when they register a foal) that will be forwarded on to thoroughbred charities and retirement programs.

These ideas are all well and good, and while a step in the right direction, they're likely to only put a small dent in a big problem. Equine rescues are doing what they can to help thoroughbreds find new futures in eventing, or at least a place to live out their days. Places like Michael Blowen's Old Friends take care of as many as they can, but maybe their greater function is to raise awareness of the issue. But retirement farms just aren't feasible for the large number of thoroughbreds out there. We could use more of them, but we need more ideas, too.