BALANCING equine health and welfare remains a hotly debated topic within veterinary practice and is a dilemma faced by owners and equine professionals on a daily basis. There have been many definitions of “animal welfare”, but most simply it can be considered to refer to the feelings and physical wellbeing of an individual.
Based on this, it is clear that health is contained within the definition of welfare, just in the same way that a yolk is contained within an egg. Health is an integral part of welfare and the two are inextricably linked (see figure 1, far right).
Poor health undoubtedly has a negative impact on welfare, but it is erroneous to infer that the presence of good health equates to good welfare. An egg with a perfect yolk, but tainted white, is still compromised.
Using a definition of welfare in a practical setting creates challenges, as each possible definition has strengths and weaknesses depending on the specific situation. For example, assessing quality of life for an aged pony compared with environmental enrichment for prolonged box confinement for a young thoroughbred.
The use of a welfare model rather than definition is more practically relevant. One such model is the Five Needs, on which the Animal Welfare Act 2006 centres, or the Five Domains (see table, below right). From these models, it can be clearly understood that equine welfare is affected by factors including health, husbandry, the horse’s use and interactions with both other animals and humans.
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'Sorry, but I wasn't feeling it'
Fresh from the opening meet, Tessa Waugh hasn't quite yet been bitten by the hunting bug. Without the crisp autumnal air and cheek-pinching cold she hoped for, it's a sluggish start
New pair pull off a win
A former European Championships pony is on form with his new rider, while elsewhere former showjumpers and eventers take ribbons
Lording it over the rest
Horses who have returned from injury, a second generation homebred and a long format specialist score on the final weekend of the British season
Smith hits flying form
A \"her way or no way\" mare helps Zoe Smith to an impressive ribbon haul and a rider beats his own boss to the top spot
Jankorado hits the jackpot
Paul Sims is triumphant despite his interrupted jump-off preparation and a borrowed horse comes up trumps
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Access all areas Cavalier Centre
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