Identifying the Research Information Needs of the Racing and Breeding Industries in New Zealand: Results of an Online Survey

The aim of this study was to identify the research-based educational needs and preferred dissemination methods for the Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing and breeding industries in New Zealand. An online survey was used to collect data from members of the Thoroughbred and Standardbred industries who were registered with racing and breeding industry governing bodies. A link to the survey was sent to all members with an e-mail address listed in their contact information. The survey was available online for 1 month (May 1-31, 2012). A total of 602 usable survey responses were included in the analysis. Approximately half the population was from the Thoroughbred sector (53%) of the industry, with most respondents being breeders (45%). Respondents were most interested in research-based information on feeding and nutrition, injuries and lameness, health and exercise, and training. Veterinarians, websites, friends or other horse owners, and printed magazines were used most often for obtaining information on equine research; these sources were also rated as most preferred. Social media and other online sources (videos and forums) were rarely used. The survey identified topics of interest to the members of the racing and breeding industries in New Zealand and highlighted preferred sources that could be used to disseminate information. Survey results also highlighted opportunities to better use and adapt current industry sources of information to ensure that the educational needs are being met for this sector of the equine industry in New Zealand.