WASHINGTON (March 19, 2025) — A new report from the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA), a federal group overseeing racehorse safety, reveals that thoroughbred horses are not only dying on race days but also face serious risks during training. The report highlights major failures in the horse racing industry, especially among those resisting reforms.
For the first time in U.S. history, nationwide data on training-related horse deaths has been made public. The findings show that racehorse deaths are nearly twice as high at tracks that haven’t adopted safety measures outlined in the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA), which began taking effect in 2020. Additionally, horse fatalities at tracks outside HISA’s oversight are 80% higher than those following its safety protocols. Detailed data on fatalities by state and racetrack can be found on pages 10 and 11 of the report.
Humane World for Animals and Humane World Action Fund, formerly known as the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society Legislative Fund, are urging all racetracks to adopt HISA’s safety rules and implement stronger protections for horses in both racing and training.
“Too many horses are dying because some racetracks refuse to follow even basic safety and anti-doping rules,” said Sara Amundson, president of Humane World Action Fund. “Every racetrack must adopt uniform safety standards to prevent these unnecessary deaths.”
Kitty Block, president and CEO of Humane World for Animals, added, “This report exposes a harsh truth—young horses are dying before they even get the chance to race. Tracks that allow this to happen must be held accountable.”
The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act provides a framework to reduce horse fatalities, and this report shows that it is making progress in improving racehorse safety. To protect these animals, all racing organizations should follow HISA’s safety and anti-doping standards.
Humane World for Animals: Who They Are and What They Do
For more than 70 years, the Humane World family has been working to stop animal cruelty and create lasting change. Previously known as the Humane Society of the United States, Humane Society International, and Humane Society Legislative Fund, we now operate in over 50 countries with millions of supporters.
We focus on advocacy, policy changes, public education, and direct care to end cruel practices, help animals in need, and strengthen animal protection efforts. Together, we are building a kinder, more humane world for all animals.
