Document details owners' equine welfare duties.

Byline: By Brian Fleming

THE need for horse owners in Ireland to be aware of their welfare responsibilities was the message hammered home at an industry reception in Kilkenny yesterday.

Des Leadon, head of clinical pathology at the Irish Equine Centre, and Kildangan Stud's Joe Osborne were among those at the launch of a policy document prepared to give guidance to owners on care and options available to help prevent horses from becoming unwanted or neglected.

Osborne, a council member of the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders' Association, and who is chairman of the racing and breeding industry group that compiled the document, said: "We met in early January and then circulated a draft to all the relevant groups within racing and breeding, and this is the end result.

"The point to take out of all this - and which is summarised at the end of the document - is that if you keep a horse you are morally and legally responsible for its health, safety and welfare while it is under your ownership or possession."

This is the first time such a guideline has been published in Ireland. "Responsible retirement," the document states, can be achieved by adhering to "five freedoms" to which every horse is entitled, and which owners are obliged to provide.

They are:

Freedom from hunger and thirst 

Freedom from discomfort

Freedom from pain, injury and disease

Freedom to express normal behaviour

Freedom from fear and distress

According to the document, not ensuring these principles are provided to a horse for life "is irresponsible, potentially cruel and can lead to prosecution".

Euthanasia to prevent suffering through slaughter facilities licensed and supervised by the Irish Department of Agriculture is also covered. These facilities dispose of remains in accordance with national and EU legislation, with burial no longer an option due to environmental laws.

"This document outlines the different options available to horse owners, and it has received unanimous support within the industry and is most welcome," said Leadon.