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Animal Welfare: Horses
Welfare issues important in the routine care and management of horses. Covers behaviour, horse/human bond, handling, rugging, transport, paddocking, stabling, feeding, breeding.
http://www.angelfire.com/sc2/petswelfare
Horse Learning and Behaviour
Non-invasive scientific research into the thinking and learning abilities of horses, also public education based on this research to improve horse welfare.
http://www.equineresearch.org/
Premarin Farms
Welfare issues associated with the treatment of pregnant mares on farms used to produce the hormone replacement therapy drug Premarin. Contacts, links and information about the farms and Premarin itself.
http://www.geocities.com/shawcreekfarm/
Sound Horse Organization
Represents individuals, farms, businesses and associations opposed to the soring of Tennessee Walking Horses. Educates the public, lobbies to affect change, donates funds to other horse welfare groups, also operates a rescue service.
http://www.walkinghorse.org/
The Swedish Animal Welfare Society for Horses
Outlines the many different ways this society works to improve the welfare of horses - educates horse owners and offers support where necessary, assists and advises authorities, operates shelter facilities.
http://www.angelfire.com/ak/shv/ehast.html
Positive Reinforcement Taught to Horse Trainers
Animal News Center (Sep 2001) article on the promotion of positive reinforcement and clicker training as more humane methods in the horse training courses offered to the public by the University of California and the University of Pennsylvania veterinary schools.
http://www.anc.org/farm/farm_archive_article.cfm?identifier=092101_horse
Horse Transportation Regulations Going into Effect
Animal News Centre article (Jan 2002) outlining new regulations recently published by the United States Department of Agriculture governing the transportation of horses to slaughter.
http://www.anc.org/farm/farm_archive_article.cfm?identifier=2002_0103_regulations
Australian Horse Industry Council
Explains how this peak body represents and supports all facets of the horse industry in Australia particularly in relation to welfare and health, also it assists research projects through the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.
http://www.horsecouncil.org.au/what.htm
Professional Opinions (Animal Welfare Council)
What the experts say about the welfare of animals in entertainment, industry, sport and recreation. Discusses horses in rodeos and the Premarin industry, also whether horses are livestock or companion animals (pets).
http://www.animalwelfarecouncil.org/html/aw/opinions.php
Traumatised horses
Case studies from Herdword on the successful rehabilitation of mentally stressed, psychologically damaged, emotionally disturbed and physically injured horses.
http://www.herdword.co.nz/problem.html
Welfare of Horses in Research Institutions
Insightful information on care and handling methods that safeguard welfare and improve research data validity, based on understanding the species-typical behaviour of horses. Covers housing, exercise, grooming, feed and water, environmental enrichment devices.
http://www.awionline.org/pubs/cq02/Cq-horse.html
Double Deck Horse Transport Banned
Article from the Animal News Center (Oct 2001) on the passing of legislation making it illegal to transport horses in double deck vehicles in Pennsylvania.
http://www.anc.org/farm/farm_archive_article.cfm?identifier=102201_pennsylvania
Horse Slaughter
Political action committee which promotes the protection of US horses against slaughter for human consumption abroad. Member list, alerts on relevant legislation, and information on how to join.
http://www.hoofpac.com/
International League for the Protection of Horses
ILPH provides education and training programs to improve horse welfare in the developing world, also operates rehabilitation and rehoming centres in the UK for abused equines.
http://www.ilph.org
North American Equine Ranching Information Council
NAERIC represents ranchers involved in the collection of pregnant mares' urine (PMU). Presents a positive slant to the Premarin debate, including that the horses are managed according to strict welfare guidelines.
http://www.naeric.org/
Equine Protection Network
A Pennsylvania group that works to expose the cruelties of horse slaughter and transport, also investigates other horse welfare and cruelty issues.
http://members.tripod.com/~EPN/general/gindex.htm
Equine Production and Performance (USDA 1997)
Discussion papers on horse welfare issues including soring, competition injuries, transport and slaughter, carriage horses, premarin farms, feral horse control, also highlights care and management practices detrimental to welfare.
http://www.nalusda.gov/awic/pubs/97issues.htm#Issue6
Horse Slaughter: An American Disgrace
An Equine Advocates Inc site arguing for an end to the brutal and inhumane horse slaughter industry in America. Presents many facts and figures.
http://www.equineadvocates.com/slaughter.html
The Strasser System of Hoofcare
An ILPH press release (March 2001) warning about some dangers of using the Strasser system of hoofcare. Arguments for and against, opinions of farriers, vets and welfarists, also links to related sites.
http://www.hoofcare.com/ilph_strasser.html
Horse Tripping
In Defense of Animals factsheet on the cruel sport of horse tripping, still practised at larger Mexican-style rodeos and as backyard entertainment. Includes description and history, strategies for getting it banned and contact information.
http://www.idausa.org/facts/horsetripping.html
Horse Illustrated Library
Series of articles mostly demonstrating how a poor understanding of natural behaviour can lead to handling problems and other welfare concerns in all horse disciplines and management situations.
http://www.animalnetwork.com/horses/library/libraryview.asp?Type=Past&Section=Behavior
UK Racing Injuries Seminar Report 2001
Training strategies that decrease the incidence of racetrack injuries. Examines key factors such as duration and intensity of fast work, age of horses, biomechanical soundness, surface conditions.
http://www.hoofcare.com/archives/uk_racing_injuries_report2001.html
Horse Health and Welfare: Codes and Guidelines
Victorian government site covering general welfare codes of practice for horses, also shelter requirements, bush racing, land transport, agistment contracts.
http://www.equinecentre.com.au/health_codes_guidelines.shtml
Australian Racing Industry Welfare Guidelines
Adapted from recommendations by the International Group of Specialist Racing Veterinarians, these guidelines cover all aspects of racing, from the initial preparation of horses to their retirement.
http://www.racingnsw.com.au/page.asp?parm=vet.WELFAREGUIDELINES
Alternative Veterinary Medicine Centre: Horse Welfare
Examines 14 welfare hotspots, including saddling, shoeing, feeding, rugging, chronic pain, overvaccination. Also highlights shortfalls in the Equine Industry Welfare Guidelines Compendium.
http://www.alternativevet.org/horses_uk.htm
Ending the Cruel Practice of Horse Slaughter
Animal Welfare Institute article (2002) that truly exposes the cruelty of the horse slaughter industry. Written by John Hettinger, a Trustee of the New York Racing Association, who has pushed tirelessly for a ban on the industry.
http://www.awionline.org/pubs/Quarterly/winter02/blindeye.htm
Animal Aid takes on The Jockey Club
2002 press release detailing a meeting agreed to by Animal Aid to discuss horse welfare, in return for The Jockey Club giving consideration to pledging five million pounds a year for the care of racehorses in retirement. Links to related information.
http://www.animalaid.org.uk/press/0202jock.htm
Rodeo Animal Welfare
National Senior Pro Rodeo Association article refuting many of the claims made about welfare infringements and cruelty to horses, cattle and calves used in rodeo sports.
http://www.seniorrodeo.com/animal_welfare.htm
Argentine Committee of Welfare and Protection of the Horse
Argentine Equine Veterinary Association group that works to improve horse welfare through education. Projects include communicating with horses, improving land transport conditions, dealing with emergencies, combating abuse, carriage horses.
http://www.vidaecuestre.com.ar/aavequina/aaveprotection.htm
Code of Recommendations and Minimum Standards for Welfare of Horses
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (New Zealand) code covering feeding, grazing, housing, husbandry, agistment, horse hire premises, equine activity organisers, transport, humane slaughter.
http://202.78.129.207/biosecurity/animal-welfare/codes/horses/horses.htm
What is Natural Hoofcare?
Describes a natural system of hoofcare which extends to the whole horse, including no stabling or rugging. The method advocated by Dr Hiltrud Strasser allows horses to perform barefoot in any discipline to their welfare advantage. Strasser books for sale and links to related sites.
http://www.thehorseshoof.com/WhatIs.html
Heat stress in endurance horses
2001 scientific paper from Sydney University explaining how to reduce heat stress, a major cause for concern in the welfare of endurance horses. Examines reduction of body heat production and ways to improve heat dissipation.
http://www.library.usyd.edu.au/VEIN/links/Essays/2001/gallagher.html
Physiological responses of horses in transit
Animal welfare essay (2001) from Sydney University examining the physiological responses to stress associated with long-haul sea, air and land transport of horses. Explains ways to minimise this stress and includes references.
http://www.library.usyd.edu.au/VEIN/links/Essays/2001/abbott.html
Physical stresses on two-year-old racehorses
Student essay (2001) from Sydney University outlining training methods that may decrease the incidence of dorsal metacarpal disease (shin soreness) and heart problems that compromise the welfare of young Thoroughbred racehorses. Bibliography included.
http://www.library.usyd.edu.au/VEIN/links/Essays/2001/reed.html
Welfare of slaughter horses
Sydney University student essay highlighting the injuries, stress and dehydration suffered by horses transported long distances to slaughter. Examines current legislation and regulations in Australia and overseas and ways conditions can be improved. Bibliography included.
http://www.library.usyd.edu.au/VEIN/links/Essays/2001/wright.html
Equine welfare: balancing tradition and science
Summary of papers presented at the 2002 RSPCA Australia equine welfare seminar, which focused on four broad areas - performance and competition, neglect and owner/handler inexperience, traditional practices, unwanted horses.
http://www.rspca.org.au/news_info/seminars.htm
1999 World Trotting Conference - Horse Welfare
Paper presented by Dr Hugh Wirth outlining RSPCA Australia's stance on horse welfare issues, including the use of horses for harness racing and other forms of entertainment. Outlines areas of concern and the difficulties of defining "welfare".
http://www.harness.org.au/99wldcon/PWIRTH2.HTM
Horse Ulcer
Story from the Australian ABC TV program Catalyst on the high incidence of gastric ulcers in racehorses and pinpoints lack of roughage as the main cause of this serious welfare problem. Veterinarians Dr Leanne Beggs and Dr John Walker are interviewed.
http://www.abc.net.au/catalyst/stories/s343936.htm
Benefits of horse urine
June, 2002 story from the Australian ABC TV program Landline on a humane, free-range method of PMU farming, in which urine is collected from pregnant mares for the production of oestrogens and related hormones for the pharmaceutical industry.
http://www.abc.net.au/landline/stories/s568505.htm
Safe Haven for Donkeys in the Holy Land
SHADH provides care for abandoned and abused donkeys and mules and works to raise awareness and develop education programs to reduce the cruel treatment of these animals throughout Israel and the Palestinian Territories.
http://www.safehaven4donkeys.org/
FOSH - Friends Of Sound Horses
This American-based organisation takes an activist role against the soring of Tennessee Walking Horses, also promotes education and training in the humane care, training, and treatment of all gaited horses.
http://www.friendsofsoundhorses.org
Carriage Horse Regulation Addresses Humidity
The government of Charleston, South Carolina has enacted a new regulation requiring humidity as well as temperature to be taken into consideration when deciding whether carriage horses should be made to continue working.
http://www.anc.org/farm/farm_article.cfm?identifier=2003_0604_regulation
Minimum Standards of Care for Equines
Useful set of welfare guidelines from Maryland Horse Council.
http://mdhorsecouncil.org/guide.htm
The Home of Rest for Horses - Education
Examines ways to educate horse owners about good welfare practices and how to overcome major barriers such as ignorance, poor advice from others and lack of commitment to the animal.
http://www.homeofrestforhorses.btinternet.co.uk/
North American Alliance Against Equine Slaughter
Alliance of organizations in the United States and Canada devoted to ending the slaughter of horses and other equines through effective legislation at the state, provincial, and national levels in both countries.
http://www.end-horse-slaughter.com
Wild Horse and Burro Freedom Alliance
Group of concerned citizens working to keep wild horses and burros roaming free on America's public lands.
http://www.savewildhorses.org
Premarin and PMU Info Page
Contains information about the treatment of horses on the PMU farms where pregnant mares urine is collected for the production of Premarin.
http://www.premarin.org
Being taken for a ride
Very comprehensive and well researched factsheet from Animal Aid examining all aspects of the use of horse-drawn vehicles for tourism, with emphasis on the horse welfare issues involved.
http://www.animalaid.org.uk/campaign/sport/omnibus.htm
Ripley's Horse Aid Foundation
This organization provides emergency help with feed, vet care, farrier services and building materials to established horse rescue groups, also advises on welfare and health care.
http://www.freewebz.com/rhaf
Novel Pliance Saddle System
Technical information on a software system that measures pressure distribution under the saddle which can pinpoint bad saddle fit, gait asymmetry, back pain, also the effectiveness of rider's aids.
http://www.forcevector.com/nav2/nav_215.htm
Safe Trailer Campaign
Blue Cross campaign highlighting the dangers facing horses through poorly maintained trailers. A downloadable leaflet offers practical guidance on trailer safety.
http://www.bluecross.org.uk/content/news/viewNewsItem.asp?id=113
Horse Welfare in North America (Freeman)
Havemeyer Foundation equine behaviour workshop paper that defines horse welfare and discusses humane transport/slaughter, wild horses and burros, soring, the PMU industry, rodeos, carriage horses, racing, plus general horse care and management practices.
http://www2.vet.upenn.edu/labs/equinebehavior/hvnwkshp/hv02/freeman.htm
HorseMates!
A database where ownership as well as physical, behavioural and health details of any horse can be entered free. Designed to protect and enhance the welfare of horses and ponies when they are sold on.
http://www.horsemates.com/
Emergency Euthanasia
UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine article on when to make the euthanasia decision and how to carry it out as humanely and quickly as possible in the absence of a veterinarian.
http://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/vetext/INF-AN/INF-AN_EMERGEUTH-HORSES.HTML
The Home of Rest for Horses
The Charity looks after up to 120 retired horses, ponies and donkeys from all walks of life including the police, army and Riding for the Disabled. Also provides equine welfare grants. Chilterns, Buckinghamshire.
http://www.homeofrestforhorses.co.uk/
World Equine Organisation
WEO uses investigation, research, training and communication to improve the welfare of equines and the people who depend on them for their livelihood, particularly in developing countries. Details of current training programs in Afghanistan, Tunisia, Romania, Portugal.
http://www.weo.org/
The Welfare of the Horse
Scientifically-based paper by Cooper and Albentosa, Cognition and Welfare Group, Lincoln University. It examines horse welfare abnd human responsibility issues according to what is known about the still evolving behavioural needs of horses.
http://www2.vet.upenn.edu/labs/equinebehavior/hvnwkshp/hv02/cooper.htm
Training Mythunderstandings
Ongoing series of training articles from Meredith Manor showing how using horse logic rather than human logic achieves an improved end result while also promoting better equine welfare.
http://www.meredithmanor.com/features/articles/default.asp
EquiSearch - Equine Rescue and Welfare Issues
Read real-life experiences and solutions, as well as information about the professional organizations to call on for help in cases of equine abuse and neglect.
http://www.equisearch.com/rescue/
Carriage Horses
A PETA factsheet outlining the poor working conditions for carriage horses - loads too heavy, ill-fitting harness, long hours of work in sometimes extreme weather conditions, lameness and ill-health are common, housing and general care often inadequate.
http://www.peta.org/factsheet/files/FactsheetDisplay.asp?ID=62
Bullfighting: A Tradition of Tragedy
PETA factsheet explaining that the bulls are not the only victims. The blindfolded and often surgically muted picadors' horses are frequently knocked down and gored so badly they are disemboweled.
http://www.peta.org/factsheet/files/FactsheetDisplay.asp?ID=64
Inside the Horseracing Industry: Drugs, Deception and Death
A PETA factsheet showing the problems inherent to horse racing.
http://www.peta.org/factsheet/files/FactsheetDisplay.asp?ID=65
Brooke Hospital for Animals
Established in 1934, this organisation is committed to alleviating the suffering of working equines worldwide by providing a free veterinary service and educating owners in how to correctly care for equids.
http://www.thebrooke.org/htdocs/Home_49.php
Help Horses - Resource Links
A listing of useful links outlining ways to help horses in abuse situations, including those requiring rescue or refuge. Includes anti-slaughter petition, free classifieds and web site design.
http://www.helphorses.com
The Jockey Club (UK): Safety & Welfare
Welfare initiatives, role of veterinary officer, horse welfare FAQ and medical update. From the regulatory authority for horseracing in the UK.
http://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/safety/safetyframeset.html
PMU Foal Quest
An excellent source of facts about Premarin farms, including that the majority are well managed and the mares well treated, also that far fewer foals go to slaughter than is generally thought. Foal Quest assists in finding homes for the foals.
http://www.pmufoalquest.com/
Just Say Whoa!! To Horse Slaughter
Information on the horse slaughter industry, the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act - HR857, the two remaining slaughter houses in Texas, ways to help stop horse slaughter and related links.
http://www.justsaywhoa.org
The Fund for Horses
Texas-based organisation whose mission is to promote and safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of all horses, whether captive or in the wild.
http://www.fund4horses.org
HR 857 News The American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act News
News and information on HR857 The American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act, which is a Bill currently before Congress.
http://hr857.com/
Working Together For Equines
WTFE operates education and training programs to improve the husbandry of working equines worldwide. Present projects, staff contacts and newsletter articles are on the site.
http://www.desertweyr.com/
The Premarin (PMU) Industry
This Equine Advocates Inc site points out that the production of Premarin has cost the lives of over a million horses. It provides related facts and figures and in-depth information on proven synthetic alternatives to Premarin.
http://www.equineadvocates.com/premarin.html
Carriage Horses: Cruelty is the Name of the Trade
Exposes the truth about the abuse and inhumane treatment of carriage horses, including headlines from major newspapers reporting such incidents. Also has ordering information for Greta Bunting's book "The Horse: The Most Abused Domestic Animal".
http://www.equineadvocates.com/carriage.html
Welfare of equids ever-evolving
AVMA (Feb 2000) article presenting the veterinary viewpoint on accelarated improvements in horse welfare - discusses natural horsemanship, horse slaughter and transport issues, premarin farms, rodeos, carriage horses, racing.
http://www.avma.org/onlnews/javma/feb00/s020100a.asp
Equine Industry Welfare Guidelines Compendium (ADAS 2002)
Agricultural Development and Advisory Service guidelines and recommended best practice standards for equine welfare. Covers feeding, health, housing, management, abandonment, export, transport, codes of practice, EU legislation.
http://www.adas.co.uk/equinewelfare/
Dead on Arrival
British RSPCA report (1999) on the plight of horses transported for slaughter in Europe. It is one of 200 publications produced by the RSPCA to educate and inform people about animal welfare.
http://www.rspca.org.uk/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=RSPCA/Publications/CampaignReportsRSPCA&pub=1000367078866
Save the Horses
Details the 1998 California Equine Council campaign that led to the passing of an Act making horse slaughter for human consumption illegal in California. Includes the comments of many celebrity supporters.
http://www.savethehorses.com/
American Horse Defense Fund
Facilitates the protection, conservation and humane treatment of all equids through education, advocacy and litigation. Current campaigns include horse slaughter, Premarin, wild horses, soring, abuse.
http://www.ahdf.org/
End Horse Slaughter Canada
Group's goal is to petition the Government of Canada to prohibit horse slaughter and the sale of horse meat. Articles and links to horse and donkey rescue groups and other related sites. Resources for activism, including petition.
http://www3.sympatico.ca/propeller/endslaughter/index.htm
Hooved Animal Rescue and Protection Society
Founded and run by Donna Ewing, HARPS focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, education, and legislation to protect horses and other hooved animals in the United States. Based in Barrington, Illinois. Emailed newsletter and online horse care resources.
http://www.harpsonline.org/
The Last Wild Mustangs
Details of the hunting and abuse of Western Canada's wild horses and information on how to help protect them.
http://members.shaw.ca/save-wild-horses/
Horsefaces
A network that helps to transport rescue or low-cost horses for relocated owners who would have difficulty meeting the costs otherwise. Each case qualifies on merit. Volunteers and coordinators now in every US state and Canada, also internationally.
http://horsefaces.hypermart.net/
National Equine Disaster Relief
Provides emergency help and advice for horses caught in natural disasters, also a state-by-state listing of people able to take in animals facing evacuation. Excellent links to disaster planning sites and how to minimise risks to animals.
http://www.kersur.net/~santa/disasterlist.html
Horse Behaviour and Psychology: Welfare
Defines "welfare" and "well-being" and presents the welfare code of the New Zealand Equine Federation. Highlights welfare contraventions inherent to intensive management practices, particularly in the racing industry.
http://www.equine-behavior.com/welfare/Welfare,%20Part1..htm
The Bitless Bridle
Informative site on a new type of bitless bridle which is more humane and effective than a hackamore or bosal. Includes scientific articles on the pathophysiology and behavioural problems caused by bits.
http://www.bitlessbridle.com/
Restricting Grazing
Lists situations where roughage may need to be restricted but points out the welfare negatives, particularly the development of gastric ulcers and stable vices. Explains how to make an Edinburgh ball, a ball of tightly compressed hay which takes a long time to eat.
http://www.thehorse.com/qf.asp?fid=3415
Gastric Ulcers
Explains why the high incidence of gastric ulcers in racehorses and performance hor
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