Equine Welfare

Equine Welfare is a clear, dispassionate exploration of ethical and welfare concerns about human use of horses. Co-edited by a veterinary surgeon and a philosopher, and written by a similarly varied and distinguished team of contributors, the book addresses controversial and emotive issues surrounding these iconic creatures, providing a reliable source of information to support informed debate.

Part 1 examines the fundamental nature of the horse, and the ethical basis for our concern with equine welfare. After a historical survey of equine-human interactions, there are individual chapters on health and disease, medicine, nutritional requirements, and a horse’s psychological and social needs. Part 2 goes on to examine welfare issues in specific contexts of horse use (and abuse), including racing, hunting, eventing, load-carrying, and scientific research.

Highly accessible and thought-provoking, this book will engage all those with an interest in horses and the enduring equine-human relationship.