Vet School research paves the way for improved horse welfare

A vision for improving horse welfare has been set out following research carried out by the University of Bristol's School of Veterinary Sciences and funded by World Horse Welfare. It is hoped the findings, to be unveiled at the House of Commons today [Tuesday 12 July], will enable the welfare priorities of the UK's 800,000 horses to be addressed. This is the first time welfare organisations, breeders, the equine industry and the veterinary profession have come together to agree on a strategy to best improve the welfare of horses in the UK. The equine welfare study found the welfare needs of many horses are not currently being met and the report has highlighted four welfare priorities. Dr Siobhan Mullan, Research Fellow in Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law at the University of Bristol and one of the report's authors, said: "Bringing together the views of people associated with horses in England and Wales has provided an overview of horse welfare, from the day-to-day concerns of equine caregivers to identifying four priority challenges to equine welfare. "This research has also identified how equine welfare can be improved, by addressing both the priority challenges, and a wider set of industry and horse-based needs." Roly Owers, World Horse Welfare Chief Executive, added: "This research report provides a vital insight to the UK's equine sector, mapping out the welfare landscape from a wide range of sector experts and stakeholders.