Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses (Revision 1)

These guidelines provide information to improve good welfare practices and encourage the considerate treatment of horses.

The Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses (Revision 1) has been prepared with people who have expertise in equine management, welfare and veterinary science.

Under this code, the minimum standards set the minimum level of conduct required to avoid cruelty to horses.

It recommends the basic needs of horses, irrespective of the husbandry system, including:

• readily accessible food and water to maintain health and vigour
• freedom of movement to stand, stretch, turn around, walk forward, lie down and roll
• regular exercise
• social contact with other horses or people
• accommodation that neither harms nor causes undue strain or discomfort
• protection from disease, and regular inspections to assess the need for attention to feet, teeth and parasite control
• rapid identification and treatment of injury and disease.

Download the Code:

• Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses – Revision 1 (PDF - 626.5 KB)
• Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses – Revision 1 (WORD - 52.6 KB)