Horse reform is the definitive retirement of a horse from an activity that no longer suits him properly. In the past, the term " reform " was used to refer to the retirement of aged, vicious or defective[1] horses. The term is now generally used in the field of equestrian sport, where it is referred to as a "reformed racing horse". But it can also be used for many other activities, such as equestrian sports or teaching in riding schools. Reformed horses have a variety of fates: although some are redirected towards activities in which they are less in demand, most are taken to the slaughterhouse.
The notion of reforming horses has evolved over time. The changing status of the animal, now close to that of a pet in Western countries, has led to a search for reform options other than slaughter.
The main cause of reformed racehorses is tendinous lesions that have induced locomotor asymmetry due to primary osteoarticular affections or those resulting from training and racing on the track.[2] Horses reformed from racing form an important part of the equestrian centers' cavalry. In the past, they were almost systematically resold for butchery, but this practice is tending to decline, particularly in France where horse butchers are increasingly rare. However, the very high number of births means that reform is obviously high.[3]
Most reformed racehorses are sold as leisure horses, but remain difficult to re-dress, especially for amateurs. It is often necessary to call on the services of professional riders familiar with the difficulty.[4]
