EWA Welfare Corner: The 5 Domains of Animal Welfare - Health

The 5 Domains of Horse Welfare: Health

Horse welfare is a multifaceted responsibility, with health forming one of its most critical domains. Proactive care, routine monitoring, and early recognition of discomfort are essential to ensuring horses live healthy and comfortable lives.

Routine Health Monitoring

Understanding what is normal for a horse is the foundation of effective care. Regular checks allow owners and handlers to identify early signs of illness or distress.

Key baseline indicators include:

• Temperature: 36°C to 38°C

• Heart rate: 28 to 48 beats per minute

• Respiration rate: 8 to 16 breaths per minute

Consistent monitoring of these vital signs can help detect issues before they escalate into more serious conditions. 

Building an Annual Health Plan

A comprehensive annual health plan is essential for maintaining long-term wellbeing. This plan should include:

• Vaccinations to prevent disease

• Regular hoof care to support soundness

• Tack checks to ensure proper fit and comfort

• Strategic de-worming programs

• Dental care to maintain proper nutrition and comfort

• Routine temperature monitoring

• Weight and body condition assessments

• Behavioural observations

• Biosecurity measures to prevent disease spread

• Stable hygiene and pasture management practices

Together, these elements create a structured approach to preventative care. 

Recognising Pain and Discomfort

Horses may not always display pain in obvious ways, making it crucial to observe behavioural changes. Pain and discomfort can result from injury, illness, ill-fitting equipment, or inappropriate handling.

Signs that warrant further investigation include:

• Avoidance behaviours, such as not allowing themselves to be caught

• Resistance during grooming or tacking up

• Ears pinned back or turning away from handlers

• Sudden high-reactivity behaviours such as bucking or rearing

• Tail swishing or lifting the head when bridling

• Snatching feet away during handling

• Guarding food

• Reduced interaction with other horses

• Heightened environmental sensitivity

• Reluctance or refusal to move when led

These behaviours should not be dismissed as disobedience but instead recognised as potential indicators of discomfort or distress. 

A Proactive Approach to Welfare

Maintaining horse health is not only about treating illness but preventing it. By implementing routine checks, maintaining a thorough health plan, and responding promptly to behavioural changes, owners and handlers can significantly improve overall welfare outcomes.

Early intervention remains one of the most effective tools in safeguarding the wellbeing of horses.