The gentle nuzzle of a velvety nose, the rhythmic pounding of hooves on soft ground, the undeniable thrill of soaring over a jump in perfect sync – these are the moments that draw us, unequivocally, to horses. As horse lovers, our bond with these magnificent creatures runs deep, often beyond words.
But in recent times, a stark light has been shone on the shadows lurking within our world, revealing instances of mistreatment and questionable training techniques, even at the highest echelons of equestrian sport. This forces us to pause, to reflect, and to ask ourselves: are we truly doing better by the horse?
The evolution of the ‘Social Licence to Operate’
World Horse Welfare and others have pioneered the “Five Domains” model of welfare, moving us beyond simply preventing suffering to actively promoting a positive mental state for our horses. It’s a holistic approach, encompassing:
- Nutrition: Is their diet optimal, not just adequate?
- Physical environment: Is their stable clean, comfortable, and stimulating? Do they have enough turnout?
- Health: Are they free from pain, injury, and disease, and is their physical fitness appropriate for what we ask?
- Behavioural interactions: Are they able to express natural behaviours? Do they have positive interactions with us and other horses?
- Mental state: Taking all of the above into account, are they experiencing positive emotions, curiosity, and engagement, rather than just the absence of negative ones?
This framework challenges us to look beyond the surface. It’s no longer enough to just feed and house a horse; we must strive for a life worth living for them. The recent news of high-profile riders allegedly engaging in inappropriate enforcement techniques hits hard. If those at the pinnacle of our sport can falter, what does that mean for the rest of us?
Prioritising equine welfare
As horse lovers, we have a collective responsibility. It’s about more than just our own horses; it’s about advocating for all horses and their experiences above the results. Here’s what I believe we can all do:
- Educate ourselves relentlessly: The Five Domains are a starting point. Dive deeper into equine behaviour, ethology, and learning theory. Understand how horses perceive the world and how their physiology impacts their responses. The more we know, the better we can interpret their subtle cues and avoid practices that cause fear or distress.
- Speak up (respectfully, but firmly): If you see something that doesn’t sit right, don’t stay silent. This doesn’t mean becoming an aggressive critic, but rather engaging in constructive conversations. Share information, ask questions, and gently challenge methods that appear to compromise welfare. Support organisations that are working to improve standards.
- Demand transparency and accountability: The equestrian world needs to be more open about welfare practices. We should push for stricter rules, better enforcement, and independent oversight at all levels of the sport.
- Support ethical breeding and training: Look for breeders and trainers who prioritise welfare, temperament, soundness, and ethical methods over quick results.
How an equestrian coach can lead the change
For me, as an equestrian coach, the responsibility feels even more profound. My role extends beyond teaching riding skills; it’s about nurturing a partnership built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. This philosophy is the foundation of Champion Equestrian Coaching.
Here’s how I commit to doing better, and how I encourage other coaches to practice:
- Prioritise the horse’s mental and physical wellbeing at all times: Every training session must begin and end with the question: Is the horse comfortable and capable?
- Teach and emphasise the Five Domains: I weave these principles into my coaching, encouraging riders to observe their horses through a welfare-focused lens.
- Promote positive reinforcement and ethical training methods: Harsh aids, force, and intimidation have no place in my sessions. I will champion techniques that encourage willingness, understanding, and joy in the horse, focusing on reward-based systems and clear communication.
- Promote positive reinforcement: Force and intimidation have no place in my sessions. I champion techniques that encourage trust, willingness and joy.
- Foster empathy: I encourage students to listen to their horses’ individual personalities and quirks.
- Lead by example: My own actions, in and out of the saddle, reflect the highest standards of horse welfare.
The journey towards truly doing better by the horse is an ongoing one. It requires humility, a willingness to learn, and an unwavering commitment to their well-being. It means challenging ingrained traditions and confronting uncomfortable truths. But the reward – a deeper, more profound relationship with these incredible creatures, built on trust and respect – is immeasurable.
Let’s embrace this challenge, together, and ensure that the future of equestrianism is one where the horse is not just an athlete or a companion, but a cherished partner whose welfare is paramount.
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