NSPCA calls for end to whips and tongue ties in horse racing

The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) is calling for the horse racing industry to stop using whips and tongue ties on horses.

The call forms part of the organisation's “Rein in the Pain” campaign, which is aimed at raising awareness about the suffering racehorses endure.

Earlier in September, the NSPCA met with the National Horseracing Authority (NHA) to discuss the use of practices that could potentially compromise equine welfare.

While more discussion is expected to take place, consulting veterinarian for the NSPCA, Dr Bryce Marock, said South Africa’s animal protection laws were clear, and they must be upheld.

"If we have to look at the tongue tie, the IFHA, which is the international body that oversees all those sporting events, they banned this in 2004 on welfare grounds. It's now 2025. And this piece of equipment is still being used. If somebody is caught, what they consider overhitting or using incorrectly, they get R2,000 and R4,000 in fines."

In response to allegations of possible animal abuse, the NHA said it had evidence to prove horses weren’ harmed in training or during races.

Chief Executive of the NHA, Vee Moodley: "The NSPCA's policy position is that they do not support any form of racing, and at NHA, our objectives are clear. We are the regulator of the sport of horse racing, and we promote the sport of horse racing. Therefore, there is a conflict at the start."

Moodley said the welfare of horses were always a priority.

"I've got evidence sitting here as to why we do it. So, you bring your evidence to me and counter it. And I will take it internationally to get it tested. So, I'll test what we have and see what the outcome is. So just a simple request. Otherwise, your complaints just become smoke and mirrors."