Nixon argued that: “Through globalization horse sport has become exposed to a new and unfamiliar audience who have no prior concept of equestrian cultural traditions and practices.” Dr Jane Nixon argued we must have horses that are fit for purpose. “To have horses that are physically and mentally fit for purpose, the period of time from conception to 2-years-old is absolutely key. A multidisciplinary approach is essential with foals and young horses, so that any opportunity for harm is avoided. We must never be dismissive of those that disagree or don’t understand but always eading vet, Dr Jane Nixon acceptable and 11.6% said no. be inclusive and persuasive.” MRCVS, Chair of The The webinar began with another In the question and answer Showing Council and simple poll, asking whether the session, fascinating debate British Horse Foundation audience believed horse riding ensued around the role of riding recently presented an will be socially acceptable in 20schools and the public demand informative webinar titled: years-time prior to listening to for riding lessons for which there The biggest threat to Jane Nixon’s presentation. 82% simply is not enough supply. equestrianism in the western of respondents stated yes, with Roly Owers said: “We need to be world; social licence to operate. the remaining 18% answering so mindful of improving the Supported by SEIB Insurance otherwise. The purpose of this viability of riding schools. Brokers, the webinar attracted poll was to have a comparison, Accessibility, diversity and an audience of over 450 prior to and following the sustainability are big registrants and 306 attendees. presentation. Following the challenges.” A panel of several leading presentation, the poll was re-run Referring to a question industry figures joined Dr Jane and there was a sway in the indicating that attitudes on Nixon including World Horse results, with this time just 79% horse riding only affect a small Welfare Chief Executive, Roly of respondents answering yes section of society, Sally Iggulden Owers, the CEO of Beverley and 21% indicating that horse said: “In the past horses were Racecourse, Sally Iggulden, Kezia riding will not be socially owned by the wealthy, now they Allen represented the British acceptable. are increasingly accessible and Horse Foundation, whilst Dr Jane Nixon’s presentation often seen as pets. We need to Chartered Physiotherapist firstly looked at what the social be clear on what is acceptable.” Elizabeth Beckerlegge licence to operate is. The social The question of members of the completed the panel. licence to operate refers to the public being required to take a Prior to the webinar SEIB ran an ongoing level of acceptance of test before owning a horse was online poll which asked the standards and norms within an raised with a mention that this general public if they believe industry or company by both is now law in France. Roly Owers horse riding will be socially stakeholders and the general argued that the equine sector in acceptable in 20-years-time. public. With 44-years equine France is highly centralized and 88.4% said yes, it will be socially veterinary experience Dr Jane
THE BIGGEST THREAT TO EQUESTRIANISM...
WE NEED TO ACT NOW
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so their system is better suited. He warned: “A licence would create a rule that would need to be enforced. It has merit but could be difficult to put into practice.” This led on to a point about requiring tack checks at shows. Dr Jane Nixon pointed out that incorrectly fitting bridles are very detrimental: “Buckles that are too high are at risk of impinging on the jaw joint. Nosebands that are put on high up catching cheek bones. Neither of these things lead to a harmonious picture.” In answer to a question about training methods, Dr Jane Nixon commented, “Yes, disciplining the horse is necessary. But we must ensure this is done without any physical or mental harm. Once a learned behaviour is instilled, we must recognise and accept that retraining the horse takes time.” Roly Owers added: “Great advances in horse training have been made in the last 10-15 years. Clicker training is a key one, but it is imperative to respond to the horse very quickly – with an instant reward for the required behaviour.” Sally Iggulden added: “Education is key, horse sports need some joined up thinking between the participants and the wider public if we are to continue in a positive way.” SEIB Insurance Brokers Marketing Manager, Nicolina MacKenzie said: “We are delighted to be in a position to support open dialogue about an issue that is crucial to the future of our industry. At SEIB we take pride in giving something back to the causes and issues that are important to our customers.”
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