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Equestrian figures to discuss welfare of horses in sport
Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare, said the survey findings “should be a wake-up call to everyone involved in equestrian sports"
Online event will explore public perceptions and how to rebuild trust. 

Public concerns about the involvement of horses in sport are set to go under the spotlight today (21 June) in an online event hosted by World Horse Welfare.

During the meeting, leading equestrian figures will discuss public perceptions of the involvement of horses in sport and what more equestrian sports need to do to ensure continued public support.  

It comes after a survey commissioned by World Horse Welfare found that more than half of the UK population (60%) believes there should be more safety and welfare measures for horse sports.

The first-of-its-kind survey, which received more than 2,000 responses, also found that more than half of people feel that equine welfare should be better prioritised in communications.  

Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare, said the survey findings “should be a wake-up call to everyone involved in equestrian sports".

“I am afraid that the results of our survey reflect the reality of the UK public’s perception of welfare in horse sport, but we can and must turn this around," he said.

“As a charity that supports the responsible involvement of horses in sport we are, today, bringing together leaders in racing, polo and equestrianism to encourage a deeper conversation on how the different equestrian sports can work better together to address this issue and ensure the long-term sustainability of their respective activities.

“Horse sport can rebuild that trust with the public and maintain support - its social licence to operate - and have a bright future, but only if it opens itself to change. We look forward to having these conversations and importantly, seeing action.” 

Joining the discssion will be Madeleine Campbell, senior lecturer in human-animal interactions and ethics at the RVC, Pippa Funnell MBE, Olympic eventer, and Dr Barry Johnson, chair of British Racing’s Horse Welfare Board. 

Christian Landolt, dressage rider and eventer, trainer and FEI ground jury member and David Morley, Chair of the Hurlingham Polo Association Pony Welfare Committee, will also be on the panel.

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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.