Animal Welfare in Equestrianism — Practical Guide

Updated: June 2026. Informational guide on best practices and regulations.

Animal welfare in equestrianism is a topic of growing relevance in both professional and recreational spheres. Spain has specific regulations regarding animal protection, and international federations—especially the FEI—have developed codes of conduct that structure what is considered good practice with horses.

The five freedoms of animal welfare

The most widely used conceptual framework for assessing animal welfare is the "five freedoms," developed by the British Farm Animal Welfare Council and adopted internationally. Applied to the horse:

  1. Freedom from hunger and thirst. Access to clean water and an appropriate diet that maintains health and vigor.
  2. Freedom from discomfort. An appropriate environment with shelter and comfortable resting areas.
  3. Freedom from pain, injury, or disease. Prevention and rapid veterinary treatment.
  4. Freedom to express natural behavior. Adequate space, suitable facilities, and the company of other animals of their species.
  5. Freedom from fear and distress. Conditions and treatment that avoid mental suffering.

Regulations in Spain

Animal protection in Spain is regulated at several levels. Some relevant milestones:

National Animal Welfare Law

Law 7/2023, on the protection of animal rights and welfare, establishes general principles. Equines are part of the framework, with specific provisions for their sporting and recreational use.

Regional legislation

Each autonomous community has specific regulations that complement the national law. Requirements for identification, transport, welfare, and sanctions vary between regions.

European regulation

Regulation (EU) 2016/429 on animal health and specific regulations on transport (Regulation EC 1/2005) set common obligations within the EU.

FEI Code of Conduct on the Welfare of the Horse

The International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) has a Code of Conduct for the Welfare of the Horse that establishes principles for all international competitions. Key points:

  1. At all times, the welfare of the horse must be paramount over the demands of breeders, trainers, riders, owners, dealers, organizers, sponsors, or officials.
  2. The horse must be treated with all necessary considerations for its welfare during all phases of its life.
  3. The demands of work, training, and competition must not compromise the welfare of the horse.
  4. Any evidence of abuse, intentional or not, must be investigated and must have consequences.

The FEI Code applies directly to international competition and, by extension, sets the ethical benchmark in the sector.

Specific best practices

Housing

  • Stall size. As a minimum reference, 3x3 meters for standard horses (larger for large or pregnant horses).
  • Ventilation. Sufficient air circulation. Ammonia buildup damages the respiratory tract.
  • Access to natural light. Essential for the horse's circadian rhythm.
  • Clean and absorbent bedding. Renewed as needed.
  • Visual or physical company with other horses. Total isolation creates behavioral problems.

Exercise and socialization

  • Daily turnout. The horse is not an animal designed to be in a stall for 23 hours. Paddock turnout, hand-walking, or lunging are fundamental.
  • Time in a paddock with other horses. Physical contact with other equines is important for mental well-being.
  • Variety of exercise. Not just arena work. Riding in the fields, working on cavalettis, varying the environment.

Training

  • Gradual progression. Work demands must be increased progressively, not abruptly.
  • Suitability to the horse's level. Demanding more than what the horse can give is counterproductive and harmful to its welfare.
  • Scheduled breaks. Rest days, vacations, periods without intense work.
  • Clear and consistent aids. The horse needs to understand what is being asked of it. Ambiguity generates frustration.

Equipment

  • Well-fitted equipment. Saddle, bridle, and bit adapted to the horse. Poorly fitted equipment is a frequent cause of pain.
  • Equipment in good condition. Dry leather breaks; worn velcro comes loose; blankets with chafing points harm the horse.
  • Changing equipment when there is clear rejection. If the horse shows persistent rejection of a bit or saddle, check the fit.

Signs that something is wrong

Detecting problems early is key. Some signs to watch for:

  • Behavioral changes (apathy, new aggression, withdrawal).
  • Rapid weight loss or gain without apparent changes in management.
  • Persistent rejection of equipment (bridle, saddle).
  • Dull coat, listless eyes, abnormal posture.
  • Lameness or difficulty moving.
  • Stereotypical movements (weaving, crib-biting, circling).
  • Loss of appetite or changes in hydration.

Any of these signs warrants a veterinary check and a review of management practices.

"Ethical horsemanship" as a trend

In recent years, there is a growing movement in the sector that questions traditional practices and proposes alternatives that are more respectful of horse welfare. Debated aspects include:

  • Use of bits. There is a movement advocating for bitless work when possible.
  • Use of spurs and whips. Excessive or inappropriate use is under scrutiny.
  • Stalls vs. semi-liberty. The stall system is being questioned in favor of more natural systems like continuous paddock access with shelter.
  • Starting age for training. Training at very young ages is being debated.

These discussions are evolving and are part of the ethical debate in the sector. The RFHE and FEI participate in these conversations and update their regulations accordingly.

What every rider can do

Without needing to revolutionize anything, every rider can contribute to the welfare of their horse or the horse they are riding:

  • Learn to read the horse's signals.
  • Seek technical advice (saddle-fitters, bit-fitters, veterinarians, equine physiotherapists).
  • Give up forcing what the horse cannot give.
  • Keep equipment well-fitted.
  • Prioritize adequate rest.
  • Take care of housing if it is your own, or demand minimums if it is a boarding stable.
  • Continue your education.

Animal welfare is not a moral label applicable only to others. It is the daily practice of every rider with their horse or the horses they ride.

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