Retired racehorse Osborne Bulls dropped by HammondCare’s Strathearn House yesterday to provide some equine therapy for residents, including many living with dementia, as part of celebrations for Horse's Birthday.  

The event launched what is anticipated to be a regular equine visit program to Strathearn, Scone under the Godolphin Lifetime Care program.

During the Horse's Birthday visit, Osborne Bulls – nicknamed Ozzie – spent time interacting with residents accompanied by his custodian Lori McKern and companion pony Rosie. 

There was also a sponge cake for the humans to celebrate Horse’s Birthday– while the horses enjoyed some carrots.

Strathearn House residential manager Caitlyn Easey said she was delighted that Godolphin had included Strathearn as part of its work with organisations that incorporate retired racehorse equine therapy.

“This was a very special occasion for residents, and it brought them much delight,” Ms Easey said.

“We know that interacting with animals adds to the quality of life of residents. What better purpose for a racehorse like Osborne Bulls in retirement than bringing happiness to older people?”

Osborne Bulls retired in 2020 after an impressive record in top-level racing, starting 20 times, winning nine and missing a place only twice. He won prize money of nearly $3 million. A career highlight was finishing a memorable third in the 2018 Everest after being a late inclusion.

Since retiring, Osborne Bulls has become a Flagbearer in the Godolphin Lifetime Care program whereby a group of high-profile horses help promote the diversity of the thoroughbred. The Godolphin Lifetime Care program has an objective to educate, create awareness and promote passion for the thoroughbred and celebrate its versatility.

Many of Godolphin’s horses transition into pleasure horses, showing, show jumping and eventing while other transitions include to organisations that connect retired racehorses for therapy and rehabilitation programs, examples include Riding for Disabled, Racing Hearts, equine therapy schools’ program and Equine Pathways Australia.

Research has consistently found significant health benefits for people living with dementia from animal engagement, according to Associate Professor Steve Macfarlane, Dementia Centre Head of Clinical Services.

Benefits include improvements in quality of life through decreased loneliness and depression, increased physical activity and improved socialisation.

“Perhaps the best way to evaluate whether this kind of equine therapy works is to look on the faces of the residents – it clearly does.” Prof Macfarlane said.

For more details on the racing history of Osborne Bulls, click this link