But the example set by veterinarian and Moruya Jockey Club president Peter Atkinson and trainer Chicka Pearson tells a different story.

Mr Atkinson says the Animal Welfare Act provides the statutory guidelines to the industry.

“If we thought there was a welfare issue, it’s dealt with under the Act,” he said. “But we’ve never had a need to do that.”

The concern is for racehorses when their careers are over due to injury or simply old age.

Many believe Australia should follow the lead of some American states, which have banned abattoirs.

He has devoted much of his life to caring for horses, but Mr Atkinson says some horses have severe behavioural problems and the industry needs abattoirs to deal with them.

“We have to ask why these horses are being put down,” he said. “Not every horse is perfect ... the main reason why some of these horses would not suit a life after racing is that their temperament is such that they are not safe to be around.”

Protection groups have called for further legislation, to stop racehorses being sent to an abattoir on a whim.

“It’s just not possible to find homes for all of the horses out of racing,” Mr Atkinson said.

“A lot of horses are born and never make it to the racetrack, but that’s not a practice I have ever come across in this industry.”

Similar to greyhound racing, Adopt a Stud is a rehabilitation scheme for former racehorses.

No figures are available, but Mr Atkinson knows a number of shire people who care for retired racehorses, including Mogo couple Carol Osling and Alf Upton.

They adopted Stanton from local trainer Chicka Pearson, and care for him like he’s their child.

It’s a decision they’ve never regretted, and they hope other people will follow their lead.

“He’s part of our family,” Ms Osling said. “We’ve had him for over 20 years now; we just love him.”