Training, Welfare, and Rehabilitation of Thoroughbred Racehorses
A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Equids".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 November 2025 | Viewed by 42
Special Issue Editor
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Thoroughbred racehorses represent one of the most intensively trained and managed equine populations in the world. Their physical and mental wellbeing are critical not only for athletic performance but also for ethical and sustainable equine sports practices. This Special Issue aims to collect current research and practical insights on the training methods, welfare assessments, and rehabilitation approaches used in thoroughbred racehorses across different stages of their lives—from early development to retirement. We welcome submissions focusing on innovative and evidence-based strategies to enhance welfare, minimize injury risk, and optimize recovery and rehabilitation. Topics may include, but are not limited to, the following: the role of exercise physiology in training regimens, behavioral indicators of welfare, stress and pain evaluation, the use of diagnostic imaging and other advanced technologies, injury prevention, rehabilitation protocols, and transition to post-racing careers. Studies that integrate veterinary, behavioral, and management perspectives are particularly encouraged. By broadening the scope to include various aspects of care and performance, this Special Issue seeks to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and contribute to improving the standards of thoroughbred horse management in both racing and non-racing contexts.
Prof. Dr. Maria Soroko-Dubrovina
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- thoroughbred racehorses
- training methods
- equine welfare
- rehabilitation
- equine sports medicine
- injury prevention
- behavioral assessment
- diagnostic imaging
- exercise physiology
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