Over 200 of the country's most influential members of the equestrian industry attended the 23rd National Equine Forum.

System identified as the basis for equine health, management and welfare

The implementation of a robust and workable horse ID system was identified as the basis for equine health, management and welfare in the UK, at the 23rd National Equine Forum (NEF) on 5 March.

Over 200 of the country's most influential members of the equestrian industry attended the event, including HRH The Princess Royal, Lord De Mauley TD, international equine vets, researchers, riders, trainers and business leaders.

Other topics covered were the practicalities of equine legislation, the management of health and disease control, and the future of British breeding.

Opening the event, Lord De Mauley outlined plans for the introduction of a strengthened, fit-for-purpose, equine ID regime throughout Europe.  

He explained: "A robust regulatory framework is important - but to be effective we need people to meet their responsibilities. I would ask you in the sector to help us improve awareness and compliance so people know the importance of doing the right thing."

Steven Gale, animal health and welfare officer for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, discussed the legislation available to local authorities to tackle equine welfare and the increase of fly grazing.

He called for the microchipping of all equines, a robust passport system, and owner details to be kept up-to-date using a fit-for-purpose central equine database.

Jeanette Allen, chief executive of The Horse Trust, and Louise Kemble, chair of the British Horse Industry Confederation, presented the Equine Sector 2015 General Election Manifesto for the Horse. The document recommends an update of the current horse passport system as a priority for improved health and welfare.

Forming part of NEF's new format, a panel representing Chief Veterinary Officers (CVOs) from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland debated their priorities on equine health and welfare in a changing world.

Chaired by Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare, the consensus of the panel was for identification, traceability and individual national databases to feed into a central system, ideally encompassing all 28 EU member states.

To download the full proceedings view www.bef.co.uk 

Image (C) Craig Payne Photography