Livestock

Livestock Horse Welfare in Equestrian Sport

Horses in competitive equestrian sport face specific welfare challenges from training, competition, and retirement.

Key Facts

Overtraining and poor training methods cause both physical and psychological welfare problems
Bit use and training aids can cause pain and fear if inappropriately applied
Competition transport exposes horses to repeated stress and injury risk
Retirement management is inadequate for many horses leaving sport

Welfare Considerations

Horses in equestrian sport that are overtrained, poorly fitted with equipment, or subjected to aversive training methods experience pain and fear. Competition exposure with inadequate preparation causes acute stress. Horses retired from sport without appropriate transition often face neglect or inappropriate management. Welfare-conscious equestrian sport requires robust training standards, equipment checks, and provision for dignified retirement.

What You Can Do

Support FEI and national federation welfare regulations in equestrian sport
Advocate for equipment checks and training method standards at competitions
Learn about evidence-based, welfare-positive training methods
Support retired racehorses and sport horse rehoming organisations