New Study Highlights Risks of Unwanted Feeding and Public Interference with Horses during the COVID-19 Pandemic
The study, titled Unwanted Feeding and Other Interactions Between Passers-By and Horses: Owners’ Views During the COVID-19 Pandemic, has just been published as an open-access paper, offering insight into a significant issue faced by horse owners worldwide. With contributions from leading experts, including Dr. David Marlin and Dr. Jo Hockenhull, who are also Animalweb experts, the research brings expert voices to bear on a growing welfare and safety concern for equines and their owners.
The study explores how interactions between the public and privately owned horses escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic. With many individuals taking to public footpaths for exercise, owners noticed an uptick in incidents of unwanted feeding, touching, and even removal of equipment. Such interference poses serious risks, as horses have sensitive digestive systems, and ingesting inappropriate foods can lead to severe health issues such as colic, choke, laminitis, or, in tragic cases, death. The study reported that 77% of UK horse owners experienced issues with passers-by feeding their horses, with 28% of these cases resulting in health issues and 16% ending in fatalities.
The research also highlights broader, often dangerous, interactions, including stroking, dog attacks, and inadvertent disease transmission. Findings suggest that some public interference was exacerbated by pandemic restrictions, with UK respondents, in particular, reporting a rise in such events.
This study underscores the need for greater public education on equine welfare and responsible behaviour around animals. The authors recommend simple solutions, such as clearer signage, educational campaigns, and the strategic use of hedgerows to separate horses from public spaces while preserving rights of way.
The full paper is now available online and open to the public for reading. Animal enthusiasts, equine owners, and the broader community are encouraged to explore this significant research on Animalweb, the go-to resource for science-backed, expert-reviewed equine information. Visit Animalweb today to stay informed and engaged with the latest in animal science.
Read the full study: Unwanted Feeding and Other Interactions Between Passers-By and Horses.
