Public comment invited on measures to enhance horse welfare

Horse owners and carers are encouraged to have their say on proposed new standards to support the wellbeing of horses in Western Australia.

The State Government has released the draft Standards and Guidelines for the Health and Welfare of Horses in Western Australia for public comment.

The document sets out the minimum standards for owners and people in charge of horses to follow to ensure the health and welfare of horses in their care.

It also provides guidelines and additional information to further promote positive animal welfare outcomes.

The document encompasses:

• general care, including health and management;
• the conditions under which horses are kept and handled;
• events; and
• natural disasters.

Separately, national standards and guidelines are being reviewed which cover the transportation of horses.

The WA Government is leading the nation by developing comprehensive standards and guidelines for all horses, which will potentially provide a model for new national standards.

There were renewed calls for standards to be developed in 2019, following a report into the treatment of retired racehorses.

To view the proposed horse standards and guidelines in WA and to provide feedback, visit the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development's engagement website at https://yoursay.dpird.wa.gov.au/wa-horse-standards-and-guidelines

 The consultation period closes Monday, 19 December.