Irish racehorses make up 90% of UK slaughtered thoroughbreds

The number of Irish racehorses slaughtered in English abattoirs rose sharply to 538 in 2024, making up 90 percent of thoroughbreds killed in the UK. This increase follows the closure of Ireland's only licensed equine abattoir last June. The average monthly slaughter of thoroughbreds in England jumped from 18 to 82 after the closure. In total, 1,439 equines were slaughtered in England last year, with 782 having Irish passports. Animal welfare advocates criticize the long-distance transport of horses for slaughter. Horse Racing Ireland maintains that they promote humane euthanasia as a better option for horses at the end of their careers.