Lexington, KY — [Insert Date] — Caribbean Equine Advocacy today announced the launch of a new initiative focused on improving welfare, transparency, and accountability within Puerto Rico’s Thoroughbred racing industry.
The initiative introduces a centralized body of research, regulatory analysis, and reporting tools designed to document outcomes, identify systemic risk factors, and support evidence-based reform. All materials have been translated into English to ensure accessibility for U.S.-based stakeholders, media, and racing fans.
At the center of the initiative is a comprehensive dataset examining 1,513 racehorse euthanasia cases at Camarero Racetrack over a five-year period. The full dataset, including individual horses and documented causes of death, is publicly available on the site.
The findings reveal consistent patterns:
- Nearly 46% of horses were euthanized within 30 days of their last race
- 35% within two weeks
- 27% within one week
- 7% on the same day as racing
These outcomes point to repeatable system-level issues, including continued racing despite visible decline, frequent veterinary flags, and limited recovery time between races.
From Isolated Incidents to Documented Patterns
“When you look at one case, it can be explained away,” said founder Chrissy Laughlin. “When you look at more than 1,500, patterns emerge that demand closer examination.”
The initiative connects these outcomes to broader structural factors, including:
- Gaps in regulatory oversight and enforcement
- Differences in medication rules compared to established U.S. standards
- High race frequency and cumulative physical stress
- Constraints in aftercare capacity and long-term placement support
It also includes a detailed comparison of Puerto Rico’s medication policies against ARCI model rules, highlighting differences in allowable drug levels, withdrawal times, and permitted combinations that can influence how injury is detected and managed.
New At-Risk Reporting and Watchlist System
A central component of the initiative is the Caribbean Racehorse Watchlist & Reporting System, which provides a structured way to document credible welfare concerns.
Reports may include prior injury, frequent starts, declining performance, recent transport activity, or visible condition changes. Submissions are reviewed and tracked to identify patterns over time, with horses monitored or escalated as appropriate.
The watchlist is designed to surface risk trends and improve visibility around horses that may warrant closer attention within the system.
“Racehorses rely entirely on human decision-making,” Laughlin said. “When concerns are documented and tracked, it becomes possible to see patterns that would otherwise go unnoticed.”
Accessible Data and Regulatory Context
In addition to original research, the initiative provides access to translated regulatory documents, formal complaints, and policy comparisons. This includes materials related to ongoing legal proceedings, offering stakeholders a clearer view into how regulations are applied in practice.
Puerto Rico’s regulatory framework places oversight responsibility with the Gaming Commission, which is tasked with safeguarding the welfare of racehorses and enforcing industry standards.
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Collaboration
Caribbean Equine Advocacy plans to expand its work into St. Thomas and Guyana, with a focus on tracking U.S.-bred Thoroughbreds as they move through Caribbean racing circuits.
The initiative is also seeking collaboration with organizations that share a commitment to equine welfare, including the newly formed group by the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). The goal is to share findings, align on best practices, and strengthen collective impact.
“This is a starting point,” Laughlin said. “There is an opportunity to work collaboratively, share information, and build a more transparent system that better protects these horses.”
About Caribbean Equine Advocacy
Caribbean Equine Advocacy is an independent initiative focused on improving outcomes for Thoroughbred racehorses in Puerto Rico and the broader Caribbean. Through data analysis, regulatory review, and structured reporting, the initiative works to increase transparency, strengthen accountability, and support long-term welfare improvements.
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Chrissy Laughlin
Caribbean Equine Advocacy
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Featured Image: Corozaleño, a Kentucky-bred OTTB owned by founder Chrissy Laughlin. After 56 races in Puerto Rico, he retired as a multiple graded winner with $189,000 in earnings. Originally purchased for $1,000, it was Chrissy’s greatest honor to bring him home to Kentucky. His story continues to inspire this work.
