Education
Providing education is a key component in making sure important topics are acknowledged and horse welfare is improved upon.
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Neglect And Abuse
Did you know that, according to the American Horse Council, in the United States alone there are between 92,000 to 138,000 unwanted horses at any given year? Many of them ending up neglected, starved, abandoned, or worse. Rehabilitation for an emaciated equine can take 4-6 months or more depending on the horse. Being able to recognize abuse and neglect can help put a stop to future suffering.
Horse Care
Proper horse care is crucial to ensure that horses live happy and healthy lives. Understanding a horse's needs and providing species appropriate care is important. Horses require access to movement, socialization, forage, and more. Failure to provide horses with their basic needs can result in behavioral problems or "stable vices." In a study done in the UK by Hockenhull, J. and Creighton, E., it was discovered that 82% of the 1,850 domestic horses samples displayed stereotypic behavior and behavioral problems.
Body Language
If we listen to the horse, they have a lot to tell us and teach us. Too often horses are given labels of "grumpy," "stubborn," "sassy," "crazy," and many more. When, in reality, the horse is trying to tell you it is confused, scared, hurting, or not feeling well. In a study conducted by Sue Dyson, it was discovered that out of 148 horses who were presumed to be comfortable and sound, over 60% of these horses displayed lameness under saddle. A few of the abnormal behaviors included bucking/kicking out, tail swishing, reluctance, gaping mouth, ear pinning, facial tension, etc.