The Blue Cross Says New DEFRA Horse Care Code Will Help Fight The Obesity Battle

The Blue Cross animal charity applauds new guidance issued last week by Defra as an important step in helping to improve the welfare of horses and ponies in the UK. The new Code of Practice for horse owners, supporting the Animal Welfare Act 2006, provides advice on how best to look after the health and wellbeing of horses, ponies and donkeys and also includes details of how to monitor and manage weight effectively.

Blue Cross equine education officer Rosie Mogford explains: "Many people may think the new guidelines are nothing more than common sense, but sadly we see many animals whose owners clearly need some help. In addition to cases of neglect through ignorance, obesity has become a major concern. 40% of the horses and ponies we took in last year were overweight. This means they are more susceptible to serious health risks such as arthritis, heart disease, lung problems and laminitis.”

The new Code of Practice contains clear and straightforward advice on equine care and management, including a detailed section on how to feed and how to monitor the weight of their horse using body condition scoring. The Code also explains to people their responsibility and legal duty of care to their horses in order to help protect animals from pain, injury and disease.

“The new Code should help us to fight the obesity battle,” Rosie continues. “Getting to grips with weight management is a vital aspect of good equine welfare and the Code provides sound, sensible advice.”

The Blue Cross launched their Fat Horse Slim campaign earlier this year. It is backed by several leading riders, including Mary King and William Fox-Pitt. The Fat Horse Slim weight management pack provides advice on how to condition score your horse and how to manage weight loss safely and effectively at all times of year. To purchase a pack visit www.fathorseslim.org.uk or call 0845 230 1672. Proceeds will support The Blue Cross’s work helping animals in need.

Date: 17 Dec 2009

The Blue Cross Says New DEFRA Horse Care Code Will Help Fight The Obesity Battle

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The Blue Cross Says New DEFRA Horse Care Code Will Help Fight The Obesity Battle

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