A Wildly Different Xmas Tail charity vote: Retraining of Racehorses (RoR)

We’re grateful to be able to work with incredible charities, such as Retraining of Racehorses – also known as ‘RoR’. This amazing charity works tirelessly to transform the lives of horses who have been retired from racing, by safeguarding their welfare and retraining them. RoR promotes lifelong partnerships between former racehorses and their owners, by offering the welfare and training support essential for retired racehorses to thrive.  

This Christmas, together, we can gift former racehorses the joy of being loved, by connecting them with owners who are devoted to giving them the wonderful lives they deserve.  

At RoR, we believe that every former racehorse deserves a life well lived. Our mission is to safeguard their wellbeing and ensure they find new purpose and loving homes.

More about Retraining of Racehorses (RoR)… in their own words 

“Every year, more than 2,000 racehorses retire from racing in Great Britain. Like people changing jobs, these horses need to learn new skills, adapt to new environments, and sometimes find new homes. 

RoR is the only national charity in Great Britain dedicated specifically to the welfare of former racehorses. This unique focus allows us to tailor our initiatives to meet the specific needs of these horses, working with our partner retraining centres to offer retraining, rehoming, and welfare programmes. By prioritising education and advocacy, we also raise awareness about the capabilities and value of Thoroughbreds beyond racing. 

Established in 2000, Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all former racehorses through various preventative measures, including: 

• Setting industry standards for retraining former racehorses. 
• Providing training and education to owners to build lifelong partnerships with their retired racehorses. 
• Promoting the versatility of these horses in various equestrian activities and facilitating their participation in competitions. 
• Maintaining a robust tracking system for former racehorses through RoR membership. 
• RoR also extends support to former racehorses in times of need through its welfare work.”  

How your vote could help Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) 

“The generous donation from Animal Friends will directly support our retraining and welfare programmes, allowing us to expand our initiatives and assist more horses in need.  

Contributions will be used for: 

• Providing a nationwide welfare safety net to take-in and take care of vulnerable former racehorses through our partner retraining centres when the circumstances warrant it. 
• Offering educational resources and training for owners of former racehorses on proper care and retraining techniques. 
• Covering essential operational costs.

With your support, we can enhance the lives of these remarkable horses and ensure they receive the love and care they deserve.” 

An RoR case study 

“From its establishment in 2000, RoR has provided a safety net to provide charitable support for any former racehorse in need. Today, this support is primarily channelled through RoR’s Vulnerable Horse Scheme (VHS). The VHS operates in conjunction with RoR’s charitable partners and well-equipped private operators, ensuring that former racehorses in need of assistance are identified and placed under the care of experts who can provide them with the support they require. 

One such case emerged in early 2023, when an owner reached out to RoR expressing that they were no longer able to afford to keep their horse and support his recovery from a kissing spine operation. In response, RoR provided the financial support and coordinated the collection and transfer of the horse to a partner retraining centre, HEROS, where they knew he would receive the care and attention his previous owner could no longer provide. 

On arrival, the horse was very dull and thin, with severe muscle loss over his back. However, within just a few months he made a speedy return to health and re-embarked on his retraining journey. During his time a visitor to the facility developed a strong bond with the horse. After repeated visits to ride him to ensure they were a perfect match for each other, she made the decision to take him home, where he has seamlessly adapted to his new life.” 

None of the vital work that RoR does would be possible without generous supporters, like you.