Polo ponies face significant welfare challenges from intensive training, frequent competition and collision risk. Understanding polo welfare guides standards for this global equestrian sport.
Polo ponies are among the most athletically demanding horses in equestrian sport. The intensity of competition, risk of collision injury and frequency of playing create significant welfare demands. Welfare standards must address fitness monitoring, injury surveillance, training methods and the care transitions that occur when ponies are frequently bought and sold. Retirement planning for ponies no longer competitive is an important but often neglected welfare consideration.