An Equine Welfare Strategy Action Plan backed by a welfare fund of $ 1,119 to launch it was approved this week during the FEI (international equestrian federation) meeting in Switzerland.
Priority will be given to six focus areas including riding, training tack and equipment; recognition of physical and emotional stress; accountability, enforcement and knowledge and “the other 23 hours,” concerning what the horse does when it is not competing or being trained. Also included among the focus areas is competitive drive/horse as a number/object and not fit to compete masking health problems.
The action plan is based on the recommendations outlined in the final report of the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission (EEWC).
The focus areas were divided into action points and entered into a matrix linking each point to the recommendations made by the EEWC, persons or groups in charge of delivery, finances and deadlines. A series of other actions not linked to the six focus areas but addressing the EEWC recommendations have also been incorporated, including education on the five domains of animal welfare approach, communications strategy and reporting mechanisms.
Calling this “an important day for horse welfare,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said. “The board took its responsibility and devoted time to discuss the detailed action plan with keen interest. Significant actions have been outlined, which will benefit horse welfare and will have a powerful impact on the sport as a whole
The action plan will be finalized with the suggestions made by the board and will be published shortly. Implementation will begin immediately, with the objective to propose initial rule changes that safeguard horse welfare at the FEI General Assembly this fall. The plan, which includes scientific research projects, offers an ongoing perspective that will continue for years.