A Global Call for Positive Welfare for All Equids
The newly published Good Welfare for Equids white paper sets a high bar for improving the welfare of horses, donkeys, and their hybrids (known collectively as ‘equids’). While primarily aimed at influencing European Union legislation, the framework offers insights and recommendations that resonate globally.
The report underscores the importance of treating equids as sentient beings, capable of experiencing emotions like joy, contentment, and pain, and calls for ensuring their wellbeing regardless of their role—be it for sport, leisure, work, or companionship.
The report emphasises that:
Equids have complex social, mental, and physical needs that must be met for them to thrive.
A good quality of life involves more than minimising stress or fear; it requires actively fostering positive experiences such as pleasure and contentment.
Good care, nutrition, social interaction, and ethical exercise not only benefit the animals but also strengthen the bond between equids and humans.
To achieve this, the paper outlines the Five Provisions framework for equid welfare:
Good nutrition
A good physical environment
Good health
Positive social and behavioral interactions
Positive mental experiences
It also highlights the risks associated with various sectors where equids are involved, from production and sports to rescue and retirement, and advocates for robust identification and traceability systems to ensure their protection.
Professor Nat Waran, one of the contributors to this report and Director of ‘A Good Life Center’ at Companion Animals NZ, emphasises the ethical responsibility to promote equid welfare, fostering positive outcomes for animals and the humans who depend on them.
"Horses, donkeys, and mules are sentient beings who feel joy, fear, and pain, just as we do. This paper is a vital step toward recognising equids as sentient beings with unique physical, mental, and emotional needs, addressing the gaps and providing actionable recommendations to ensure equids live a "Good Life." By focusing on their quality of life, not just minimising harm, but fostering positive experiences, we can set a global standard for equid welfare that benefits both the animals and the people who both care for them and rely on them." - Professor Nat Waran
This comprehensive framework challenges stakeholders worldwide to prioritise the welfare of equids, ensuring they live fulfilling lives. For more details, you can read the full white paper here:
