Discussion

The publics interest in equine welfare matters seemingly increases every year. This may be due in part to the greater value society appears to be placing on the welfare of animals, with a growing proportion of the population periodically fired up by high profile incidents like the deaths at the Grand National, the use of whips in racing and the hot to branding of semi to feral ponies. However, there is no doubt the economic downturn has played a significant role too, depressing the sales market and thereby thrusting welfare problems onto the doorsteps, roads and school grounds of residential Britain. The consequence is that UK charities are handling a growing number of multi to horse cases putting an immense strain on their systems, while also grappling with more insipid issues such as an epidemic of irresponsible overbreeding, and welfare challenges unknown to previous generations, like obesity and the threat of disease (endemic and exotic). The key to addressing these problems is education, which can be an even greater challenge but one that must be taken up by veterinarians, welfare groups and all those involved with horses.
This presentation will provide a brief overview of the key equine welfare issues in 2012 and will look to provide some perspective as to where the main challenges lie, and the role vets can play to help prevent future welfare problems.