Dressage-News

April 18, 2024

The European Equestrian Federation representing 40 nations described as “an epidemic” behavior by grassroots and amateurs that compromises horse welfare at home.

EEF President Theo Ploegmakers reported that following recent reports of high profile horse abuse the organization conducted a a survey for a continent-wide discussion on protecting horse welfare at home that produced “vast” response.

“Behind closed doors, away from the watchful eyes of national federations and authorities, methods are being employed to push the boundaries of performance,” he said. “These concealed practices not only compromise the integrity of the sport but also endanger the welfare of the horses involved.”

He went on: “With the majority of the respondents from Europe, and identifying as a national rider or horse owners, the results clearly show this is not just an FEI (International Equestrian Federation) matter, a competition matter or otherwise.

“90% of respondents said they had witnessed behaviors they believed compromised the horses’ welfare at home, and almost half of these happened in the last six months.

“This is an epidemic across the grassroots and amateur levels that our National Federations need to take action against.”

With jurisdiction and authority limited, he said, “the level of evidence and investigation required to successfully prosecute is high. Moreover, when we discuss the issue of training methods, many of these cases are not ‘severe’ enough to warrant the involvement of criminal or other authorities, yet we understand they are inappropriate and cause harm to the animal and should not be employed.

“It is time for a paradigm shift; a call to end the impunity of those who tarnish the sport’s reputation. While a lot of focus has centered on dressage, we cannot be naive to the threats all our disciplines face, and the potential for poor horsemanship to exist across the breadth of the sports levels, too.”

The key to dealing with the issues are national federations, Theo said.

“National federations must spearhead initiatives to educate trainers, riders, officials and stakeholders about the ethical boundaries of training practices. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, we can cultivate a community where the horse’s welfare reigns supreme.

“The stakes are high, for every horse deserves to be trained with dignity and respect. Their well-being should never be compromised in the pursuit of victory. As custodians of the sport, it is our collective responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ensure that the spirit of the sport remains untarnished for generations to come.”