Welfare Code of Practice for Shows launched
A voluntary code of practice to set out acceptable welfare standards for horses at shows and events has been produced by the British Horse Society, in conjunction with the British Equestrian Federation’s Welfare Group. Show organisers had reported that they often feel unable to act when they are told about mistreatment of a horse at their event.
BHS Welfare Senior Executive, Lee Hackett said: ‘We often receive calls to our welfare hotline about incidents at shows but there is rarely anything we can do, as the calls arrive after the event. From discussions with show organisers we’ve found that they often feel powerless to take action, as there have previously been no clear standards set. ‘Hopefully, these guidelines will provide the back-up that show organisers need as well’.
The Code includes guidelines on all aspects of the welfare of horses at events such as transport, use of the whip, conduct in and out of the show ring and the provision of feed, water and shelter. If a show organiser finds that a competitor is in breach of the Code, they will then have firm grounds to issue a formal warning or disqualify that individual from their classes. In severe cases, individuals may be asked to leave the showground or be reported to a welfare agency.
The BHS Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses and Ponies at Events can be downloaded from the BHS website (www.bhs.org.uk) and a shorter version that can be included in the schedule is also available.
For further information please contact: Lee Hackett, Welfare Senior Executive, The British Horse Society, 01926 707804 or l.hackett@bhs.org.uk
July 16th 2008