Germany's decision to ban training young horses raises questions

The education of young horses has been thrust into the spotlight with a change to welfare law in Germany

- LUCY ELDER

EDUCATING horses to cope with the world around them from a young age is crucial to set them up for a happy life.

That was one of the key messages from a workshop featuring top vets, scientists and equestrians in Newmarket (24 May).

The conference came about as a result of developments in Germany, where animal welfare law means horses under the age of 30 months may not start training or compete. Two-yearold racehorses are exempt, providing they undergo two veterinary assessments.

The development has sparked concerns – questions raised at the workshop included how a vet could make judgement on an unfamiliar horse in such a short time, and lack of evidence for the move.

Pushback in Germany has prompted its ministry for agriculture to commission a welfare study (Projekt Horsewatch) to determine the age at which horses have achieved the mental and physical maturity that permit training and competition.

The report, its conclusions and recommendations must be submitted to federal parliament in 2027 or 28.

The news prompted organisers to call the conference. Guests heard that there is a lack of evidence to support the ban – but there is strong evidence to refute the 30-month theory, and to indicate that appropriate training of young horses is beneficial.

EARLY HANDLING

ON stress in horses in general, behaviour specialist Gemma Pearson said gentle handling from a few days old will help them cope with stress throughout their lives.

“There are so many things we can do to set horses up for success in life,” she said, giving examples of appropriate living space with access to other horses, and gentle handling.