The Senate Select Committee Report on Animal Welfare (1991) Equine Welfare & Endurance - Part 3

Note this is a historical piece continuing on from Part 1 & Part 2 of the same name.  The Inquiry took place some time ago in 1991, but the message is clear and still relevant today.  Endurance as a sport cannot afford to become complacent with regard to horse welfare issues.

 Conclusions and Recommendations

 Equine Fatalities

 The Committee considered that the number of horse fatalities resulting from endurance riding is unacceptable.  As a matter of urgency, more stringent veterinary controls are to be introduced to safeguard the welfare of endurance horses. 

Specific Reforms to improve the welfare of endurance horses

1.  Preparation of horses: only suitable, properly trained and fit horses should compete.
2.  Novice Horse Category:  A Novice horse category was suggested as well as a novice rider. Novice horses need to demonstrate a capacity in that category before progressing on to more advanced categories.
3. Training Rides:  Training rides to be used to educate new riders with the stricter supervision and control than competitive rides.
4. Rider Education: Riders should have a thorough knowledge of all aspects of endurance riding and recognise the physical demands on their horses.
5.  CRI:  The Committee noted that the CRI was used in international competition & thought that AERA should introduce it in Australia
6.  Veterinary Supervision: Veterinary control must be enforced strictly and events should be supervised by veterinarians familiar with endurance rides.
7. Statistics on Fatalities: The Committee considered that the AERA and its State affiliates should collect and maintain a register of statistics on fatalities and major injuries to horses involved in endurance rides.  This should be lodged annually with the relevant Department responsible for animal welfare.

 Comment with regard to riders
It was thought that a recent increase in the competitiveness of riders has contributed to the escalating number of horse deaths.  Riders have become more interested in winning rather than the achievement of a completion.

Suggestions by the AWAC (Australian Welfare Advisory Committee)
Riders, particularly novice riders, should be provided with minimum completion times.
Riders should be required to "declare" that they are in possession & are familiar with the AERA Rules.
Riders should be required to carry a book containing details of every ride attempted.  Information should include particulars of the horse, ride details and recoveries and any reason for disqualification or failure to complete.

Research

Specific areas were identified as needing more attention and research.
  1. Equine exercise physiology associated with distance riding, 
  2. The diagnosis of "Exhausted Horse Syndrome" 
  3. Appropriate treatments for emergency situations.
Dr Brian Sheahan, Head Veterinarian Boonah Tom Quilty Gold Cup,  National Championship 160km 2006.  Brian is the Endurance Chair of the FEI Bureau/Executive in 2017. Brian has been a superb veterinary educator over the years for both nationally (AERA) & internationally (FEI).








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