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Plan to reform endurance riding in UAE
horse
FEI Bureau will vote on the lifting of UAE's suspension once satisfied horse welfare will be ensured and FEI rules and regulations enforced.
FEI welcomes proposals following horse welfare concerns

Proposals to reform endurance riding in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following serious horse welfare concerns have been welcomed by FEI, the international governing body for equestrian sports.

While the proposals are "a very good start", more work still needs to be done before the FEI Bureau can consider lifting the UAE's suspension.

FEI enforced a provisional suspension in March this year following an investigation into serious horse welfare issues and non-compliance with FEI rules and regulations.

Commenting on the proposals for reform, FEI president Ingmar De Vos said: "We welcome the proposed agreement of the UAE and see it as a very positive development that they are working to come to a solution."

A 10-page document proposing reforms was submitted by the Emirates Equestrian Federation (EEF) last week (5 June).

Proposals include:
  • Creating an EEF endurance committee of enquiry to oversee the application of the rules
  • Involving the national Olympic and anti-doping committees
  • Training and educating athletes, trainers, owners and officials
  • Possible banning of organisers for non-compliance with the rules
  • Ensuring EEF national rules comply with FEI rules and regulations
  • Working more closely with FEI, including welcoming FEI observers to EEF national events
  • Cooperating with the inquiry into duplication of results at a number of UAE events
It is accepted in the EEF's proposals that any breach of the above could result in the suspension being reinstated and the 2016 FEI World Endurance Championships being withdrawn.

The UAE has also implemented new legislation that prohibits the trade or use of banned substances in horse racing and other sports.

After discussing these proposals in detail, the FEI Bureau agreed to work with the EEF to finalise the agreement, including seeking more concrete information on the proposals.

When the bureau is satisfied that horse welfare will be ensured, FEI rules and regulations will be enforced and pending issues have been dealt with, it will vote on the lifting of the suspension.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.