‘The biggest threat to equestrianism’ - webinar

THE BIGGEST THREAT TO EQUESTRIANISM... WE NEED TO ACT NOW

Leading vet, Dr Jane Nixon MRCVS, Chair of The Showing Council and British Horse Foundation recently presented an informative webinar titled: The biggest threat to equestrianism in the western world; social licence to operate.

Supported by SEIB Insurance Brokers, the webinar attracted an audience of over 450 registrants and 306 attendees. A panel of several leading industry figures joined Dr Jane Nixon including World Horse Welfare Chief Executive, Roly Owers, the CEO of Beverley Racecourse, Sally Iggulden, Kezia Allen represented the British Horse Foundation, whilst Chartered Physiotherapist Elizabeth Beckerlegge completed the panel. Prior to the webinar SEIB ran an online poll which asked the general public if they believe horse riding will be socially acceptable in 20-years-time. 88.4% said yes, it will be socially acceptable and 11.6% said no. The webinar began with another simple poll, asking whether the audience believed horse riding will be socially acceptable in 20years-time prior to listening to Jane Nixon’s presentation. 82% of respondents stated yes, with the remaining 18% answering otherwise. The purpose of this poll was to have a comparison, prior to and following the presentation. Following the presentation, the poll was re-run and there was a sway in the results, with this time just 79% of respondents answering yes and 21% indicating that horse riding will not be socially acceptable. Dr Jane Nixon’s presentation firstly looked at what the social licence to operate is. The social licence to operate refers to the ongoing level of acceptance of standards and norms within an industry or company by both stakeholders and the general public. With 44-years equine veterinary experience Dr Jane 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 be inclusive and persuasive.” In the question and answer session, fascinating debate ensued around the role of riding schools and the public demand for riding lessons for which there simply is not enough supply. Roly Owers said: “We need to be so mindful of improving the viability of riding schools. Accessibility, diversity and sustainability are big challenges.” Referring to a question indicating that attitudes on horse riding only affect a small section of society, Sally Iggulden said: “In the past horses were owned by the wealthy, now they are increasingly accessible and often seen as pets. We need to be clear on what is acceptable.” The question of members of the public being required to take a test before owning a horse was raised with a mention that this is now law in France. Roly Owers argued that the equine sector in France is highly centralized and 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.”