Medical welfare protocols at endurance events protect horses through pre-ride assessments, compulsory veterinary checks and clear criteria for eliminating horses showing signs of metabolic compromise.
Endurance event medical welfare depends on robust veterinary protocols that can detect metabolic compromise before it becomes critical, independent decision-making by veterinarians free from competitive pressure, and a culture that accepts elimination as welfare-positive rather than defeat. The current system of mandatory vet gates provides important welfare checkpoints but cannot prevent all metabolic crises between checks. Rider education about metabolic signs and the obligation to withdraw horses showing compromise between vet gates is a critical component of the welfare system. Cultures within the sport that celebrate completion at any cost create welfare risks that governance structures and education programs must address.