The U.S. Equestrian Federation has published a series of Horse Welfare Guidelines that the organization intends to serve as a basis for improved physical and mental well-being of equine partners. This announcement comes on the heels of USEF’s expanded Unethical Treatment of a Horse rule published last year, which empowered USEF and licensed officials to take action in cases of unethical treatment of horses, on and off show grounds. The guide provides more examples and context for horse welfare best practices in training and competition. 

Developed by USEF Chief of Sport David O’Connor, the guidelines are based on the concept of a stoplight. Examples of horse and athlete behavior fall into one of three zones: green (acceptable or horse-friendly), yellow (cautionary or in need of monitoring), or red (in need of intervention or unacceptable).  

“David based these guides on a similar system used by the German Equestrian Federation,” stated the USEF release. “They are not rules, but are educational tools designed to help participants take in the full picture in front of them and determine whether they need to continue to observe, report, or intervene.”

“I am very excited about this initiative,” said Dr. Tracy Turner, president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners, in the USEF statement. “We support a humane and ethical partnership with horses for recreation, sport and competition. Working together, we can make a difference for the well-being of our horses.” 

The new Protecting Horses webpage contains a slideshow and the start of an ongoing video series, “Know the Signs,” which explains the guidelines and provides examples. More videos in the series will be available this fall. This US Equestrian magazine feature also explained more about the concepts and their application. 

USEF also announced plans to offer webinars for trainers, coaches and riders to help them better understand the guidelines, including a session for trainers and coaches Oct. 6, and another for athletes on Oct. 7. USEF members will receive email instructions on how to sign up for these webinars in the coming weeks. 

“Licensed officials have already been briefed on these guidelines and know the options they have available to advise, caution or formally warn someone they see acting in the red zone,” stated the release. “When the situation warrants, they have the power to issue verbal warnings, recorded warnings, or yellow card warnings, and to disqualify or eliminate someone who is mistreating a horse. Members can also report treatment they witness that falls in the red zone. You can learn more about the reporting and investigations process for unethical treatment here. 

“Reports from members or licensed officials will be fully investigated and could result in penalties from USEF. 

“We recognize that the vast majority of our membership maintains high standards for their care and treatment of horses. We also recognize a need to provide educational tools that can help keep the culture of equestrian sport moving forward,” the statement continued.

For questions or thoughts about the new tools, email protectinghorses@usef.org.