The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has expressed serious concerns about horse welfare in South African racing following discussions with the National Horseracing Authority (NHA). The NSPCA’s #ReinInThePain campaign highlights issues such as the use of tongue-ties, excessive crop use, and racing underage horses, all of which compromise animal welfare. Despite the NHA’s claims that their actions prioritize horse welfare, the NSPCA questions the regulator’s ability to enforce standards objectively due to its commercial interests. The NSPCA also criticized the NHA’s reluctance to pursue criminal charges against those violating animal protection laws, emphasizing that internal disciplinary measures should not override legal enforcement.

The NSPCA insists on stricter penalties for welfare violations, banning harmful devices like tongue-ties, and prohibiting the racing of immature horses, prioritizing animal welfare over commercial gain. While the NHA has committed to including the NSPCA in future rule consultations, the NSPCA remains firm in its stance that meaningful reforms and enforcement are urgently needed. The organization vows to continue advocating for stronger protections to ensure the humane treatment of racehorses in South Africa.