The topic of animal welfare and social licensing in today's equestrian society is of upmost concern to individuals and equestrian organizations. These two phrases touch on many different elements of concern by persons inside and outside of the equestrian business, some real and some perceived.

Factors such as season, climate, training methods, conditions of facilitates, availability to feed, pasture and water all contribute to the well-being of the horse in a domestic setting. Transportation, equestrian competitions and events are all under a more watchful 'eye' than ever before. When placing a horse in an an abnormal situation(s) is coming under more scrutiny with the ever-present mobile telephone camera.

The emphasis on routine maintenance and care has not diminished, from the farrier to the veterinarian, from supplemental feeding to deworming programs and vaccination schedules. The new public emphasis is on the environment associated with training and competition. Awareness of knowing when it's appropriate to rest the horse and provide aid are ever present decisions in today's equestrian industry.

Teaching and training persons on proper techniques of assessment is critical to determining the cause-effect relationship with a horse's treatment and condition.

Presentations -

Hipsley and Associates has made presentations on the topic of animal welfare to:

• Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association
• American Morgan Horse Association
• American Horse Council
• Color Breed Horse Council
• Pinto Horse Association of America
• Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation

Committees -

Serving on committees for the United States Equestrian Federation, Kentucky Horse Council and American Horse Council Horse Show Committee have contributed to expanding knowledge in responding with humane legislative topics associated with a wide range of issues dealing with horse welfare.

 

Certification - 

In addition, as a certified participant in the Kentucky Livestock Investigation program provides an additional depth of knowledge on the topic of welfare and welfare assessment.