I know that horse racing has a high financial impact on our nation's economy. Horses are magnificent creatures and they do love to run, however, many horses are treated poorly if they do not perform well. As a retired veterinarian, I know of the inhumane treatment of these horses. Also, the results of more opportunities to gamble in communities increase criminality due to the higher probability of losing from compulsive gambling  When people turn to gambling, they lose money becoming impoverished and then turn to crime or become a burden on the community. So, on two points, I am strongly against allowing off-track betting in Virginia.