Legislation
This page is designed to provide our clients with some helpful tips, outlining the legal obligations to owning a horse or donkey
Purchasing a horse or donkey is a big decision that requires a great deal of planning and preparation. An equid requires time and financial commitment in order to remain healthy and happy. The following summary is a guide intended to educate horse and donkey owners, about responsible ownership and current welfare standards. It is based on our professional veterinary opinion guided by the recommendations outlined in the ‘Code of Welfare for Horses and Donkeys’ as part of the Animal Welfare Act 1999. Click Here to read more.
Basic requirements for survival are water, food and shelter. Water needs to be clean, accessible at all times and given in sufficient amounts based on your animal’s weight. Appropriate feeding must include a suitable fibre source, such as grass or hay, as well as a balanced mineral source. Supplementary feed may be necessary, depending on your animal’s needs. Shelter can be in the form of a natural protection such as trees, a man- made cover or shade sail; or a summer and winter rug. It is important to provide protection from all elements, including heat, cold or rain. Donkeys are specifically susceptible to changes in temperature, as their coat differs from that of the horse.
The provision of a suitable environment is paramount. If kept outdoors, equids, particularly horses, require adequate fencing that is safe and prevents them from harm. The use of barb wire fencing can cause severe injuries and is thereby not endorsed for the confinement of horses. Long-term tethering of equids is not recommended, as it reduces their ability to exercise and increases the risk of injury. Grass provided should be safe and free from toxic plants. Handling facilities, such as yards, need to be designed to minimise the risk of distress or injury. If your equid is housed indoors, the box needs to be big enough to ensure they can turn comfortably and lie down. A clean stable, natural (ideally) or correct artificial lighting throughout the day, and adequate ventilation, supports the health of your equid and is strongly advised.
Knowledge of equine behaviour and training will ensure that you and your equid stay safe and happy. Becoming a competent handler and learning your animal’s behaviour, will help to keep you and your horse safe. Recognising changes in normal behaviour is vital, as it can be an indicator of ill-health.
It is also very important to recognise that equids are herd animals, so they should ideally have at least one equine companion within sight. Donkeys bond very strongly with their companion, so should be kept in pairs. Consistent training, including ground or ridden work, will help to form a bond and establish trust between you and your horse as well as providing mental and physical stimulation. When exercising, consider training your horse consistently, with gradual increases in exercise intensity, avoiding pushing your horse to exhaustion or injury.
Ensure that you choose the right equipment for your equid. It is important to have tack properly fitted to prevent abrasions or impairment of breathing and drinking. Additional gear such as spurs and whips should only be used as aids by competent riders; they should not cause distress or pain. Restraining devices such as twitches and hobbles, are not to be used to inflict pain; they are reserved to assist trained individuals in achieving a safe method of restraint.
Decide on a veterinary professional service provider in your area. A veterinarian will provide your equid with preventative health care and advice regarding nutrition, vaccinations, worming, foot care, dentistry and joint care, to name a few. They will also be your first contact in an emergency situation in cases of injury or ill- health. Ensure to discuss any health-related concerns to prevent further progression of a disease or problem. If your equid has sustained an injury and is in pain or suffering, it is your responsibility to contact your veterinarian immediately. Routine surgical procedures such as castrations, caslicks or branding, should be carried out by your local veterinarian, as they require a specific skill set and prescription medication. Further, any questions regarding equine reproduction, foaling and foal health, can be answered by your chosen veterinarian. It is important to seek professional advice before commencing the breeding of an animal. As outlined above, there are many factors to be considered before committing to the ownership and care of an equid. Please do not hesitate to get in touch or refer to the ‘Code of Welfare for Horses and Donkeys’ if you have any further questions.