World Horse Welfare is welcoming a new Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses, Ponies, Donkeys and their Hybrids (published 6 April) which sets out minimum standards that should be met by anyone caring for an equine in England.

The Code which has been updated to reflect latest research and developments in equine management sets out requirements for all aspects of responsible ownership, providing a fundamental resource to help horse owners and carers ensure their animal’s welfare is safeguarded.

Collated in partnership between Defra and the British Horse Council (of which World Horse Welfare is a member), the Code covers all aspects of physical wellbeing including; what constitutes a suitable environment for a horse, ensuring their nutritional needs are met, protection from pain, injury, suffering and disease, end of life planning and duty of care. In addition, the Code also sets out requirements for ensuring your horse’s behavioural and companionship needs are met.

Whilst the Code is not a legally binding document, it does mean that if proceedings are brought against a horse owner under the Animal Welfare Act, the Court will look at whether or not the owner has complied with the Code in deciding whether or not an offence has been committed.

World Horse Welfare Chief Executive, Roly Owers, said:

“The publication of this updated Code of Practice is a significant step for equine welfare in England. Not only does the Code set out the minimum standards that constitute and define responsible ownership, but it provides a useful and easily accessible reference guide for horse owners and carers from all areas of the equine sector.

 “Although it cannot be used to bring about a prosecution, this statutory Code is an important resource for enforcers and welfare charities which offers clear guidance and education as well as assisting Courts of Law to enforce welfare offences and hold irresponsible owners to account. 

 “The updated Code is similar to guidance in other countries which set out good practice in equine welfare and we look forward to progressing a European-wide version as part of the EU Animal Welfare Platform’s Equine Sub Group.”

The Code of Practice can be viewed and downloaded here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/code-of-practice-for-the-welfare-of-horses-ponies-donkeys-and-their-hybrids