Blackheath man Nigel Foote has called for a more humane way to end the life of all horses that are suffering.
The recent media coverage showing horrific treatment of racehorses once they were cast aside by their owners, got him thinking about alternatives.
He'd like to see a "horse death fund" set up which would require all horse owners to pay the vet's euthanasia fee at the time of purchase of the animal.
"The money would accrue interest over the horse's life which could be used to manage the fund - perhaps controlled by the National Horse Register, the RSPCA or Horse Rescue Australia," Mr Foote said.
"I thought why aren't horses put down like our pets are humanely? If you put them to sleep, it's a very peaceful, calm end for the animal." Mr Foote said.
Josie Drummond bought ex-racing horse Ace Case, who is now known as Dougal O'Reilly, for eventing two years ago.
He had only entered one race and came dead last. She says a lot of former racing horses are used in eventing due to their particular attributes.
"They have great work ethics, they want to do a job. They are very athletic, amazing jumpers with wonderful temperaments and personality," Ms Drummond said.
She supported Mr Foote's idea.
"If the unfortunate day came, I would put them down through euthanasia," she said.
"They deserve that respect, they give us so much."
While acknowledging NSW has stricter regulations around a horse's life after racing and did made efforts to rehome them, she said policies and procedures still needed to be examined.
"After horses come off the racetrack they could have a beautiful life, in another discipline or as a leisure horse or a companion.
"It's taking the time to find their niche."
Mr Foote approached Macquarie MP Susan Templeman about raising the issue in Parliament. She will raise his idea with Federal Agricultural Minister Bridget McKenzie.
Ms Templeman said she was horrified to see the mistreatment of horses in a Queensland abattoir on the ABC's 7.30 program.
"There are a number of investigations and reviews underway and the associated industries are working to ensure that systems are put in place to address the current failings. It is important that these investigations and reviews are finalised and that the findings are made public to ensure welfare standards are implemented and adhered to," Ms Templeman said.
"Animal welfare standards are primarily the responsibility of state and territory governments, however, there are calls from the Australian Veterinary Association for the federal government to implement a nationwide welfare standard and register to protect the welfare of all horses.
"Labor went to the last election with a policy to establish a National Office of Animal Welfare and given the evidence we have seen of animal cruelty, that is something this government should be taking on board."