Why Ethics in Horsemanship Matter?

Why Ethics in Horsemanship Matter? 

Horsemanship has never intended to denote dominance or control; instead, it has connotations of ethics, morality, and respect for the horse. Horses are sentient beings that feel love and respect just as a human does. 

 

Due to heightened public scrutiny brought about by social media and questions about purported training methods from organisations like FEI (Fédération Equestre Internationale), equestrianism finds itself standing at a crossroads of moral debate. 

 

Now, riders, trainers, and equestrian enthusiasts find themselves wondering what they are willing to sacrifice to get the results. 

 

Ethical horsemanship centres upon the recognition and consideration of the horse's distress and discomfort. Horse training should be practised humanely by establishing trust and partnership between man and horse rather than through intimidation or compulsion. 

Why are ethics important in horsemanship? 

 

In recent years, there has been a prominent surge in awareness regarding ethical horsemanship and welfare as people have become awakened to the harsh reality of cruelty meted out on defenceless animals under the guise of training. 

 

A collaborative study initiated by World Horse Welfare, in conjunction with Britain’s top equestrian organisations, recognises the mental and physical well-being of horses and works together to ensure sustainability in the equine industry. 

 

The question arises, “Could the way we train our horses be just as important as the goals we set?” 

 

Here are a few points that highlight why ethical horsemanship matters even more in 2025. 

 

 

A rider knows well what it takes to train a horse. Horses are sensitive animals; being patient and considerate toward them will create a bond of trust and partnership that will ultimately enhance their performance over time. 

 

● Follow the Guidelines 

 

The principles of ethical horsemanship have become the spotlight for the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission to foresee the ongoing situation regarding the unsafe, unacceptable, and unnatural practices inflicted on the horses. The rider and trainer should, therefore, be conversant with all horse safety and welfare guidelines so they do not build up controversy. 

 

● Uplift the Equestrian Community 

 

Over the last few years, trainers, riders, and enthusiasts have been putting ego aside and practising humane ways of training horses. This wake-up call influences the rest of the society to develop attitudes that are kinder and more empathetic towards horses. 

 

● Beware of Malpractices 

 

Media outrage came during the recent equestrian Olympic controversy when Charlotte Dujardin was disqualified for cruelty towards her horses. Being accountable should be of prime importance, especially when it comes to not force-training horses so that we can stroke our egos. 

 

Humane Training for Sustainability 

 

● For a relationship of respect and companionship to be forged with horses, the training process must be humane and must consider their welfare. 

 

● Raising awareness of ethical training methods is, thus, a great cause for someone who expresses the rights of a voiceless being. 

 

● Respect, kindness, and integrity would keep the horse happy for longer, which truly establishes that long-term relationship. 

 

 

Nowadays, riders are rethinking the entire training procedure. Ethical horsemanship genuinely benefits both the horse and the rider. 

 

Scientific evidence shows, and witness testimonies confirm, that ethical horsemanship allows for the existence of emotionally resilient and physically fit horses. Whereas, riders are satisfied with their partnership, feeling that they are training these horses fairly and sustainably.