Equestrianism is currently facing a range of pressing challenges. These challenges, which are largely based on evolving attitudes to ethics and equine wellbeing, have consequences for the sport’s social licence to operate. The factors that may have contributed to the current situation include overarching societal trends, specific aspects of the equestrian sector, and factors rooted in human nature. If equestrianism is to flourish, it is evident that much needs to change, not the least, human behaviour. To this end, using established behaviour change frameworks that have been scientifically validated and are rooted in practice—most notably, Michie et al.’s COM-B model and Behaviour Change Wheel—could be of practical value for developing and implementing equine welfare strategies. This review summarises the theoretical underpinnings of some behaviour change frameworks and provides a practical, step-by-step approach to designing an effective behaviour change intervention. A real-world example is provided through the retrospective analysis of an intervention strategy that aimed to increase the use of learning theory in (educational) veterinary practice. We contend that the incorporation of effective behaviour change interventions into any equine welfare improvement strategy may help to safeguard the future of equestrianism.

Personality has been shown to affect the way individuals think, feel and act, and could impact on the way people behave and perform in a wide variety of activities. Anecdotal evidence suggests that differences in personality exist between equestrians participating in different disciplines and at different levels, but empirical evidence is limited. This study aimed to investigate dispositional tendencies of rider cohorts, in relation to age, nationality, discipline, competitive level, breadth of involvement in different disciplines, and level of risk-seeking behaviour. An online survey was developed, collecting rider demographics relating to nationality, sex, age, competitive level and discipline. A risk scores was assigned to each discipline and an average risk rating was calculated per participant. Personality traits of extroversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism and intellect were measured using the Mini-International Personality Item Pool. Kruskal-Wallis analyses determined differences for personality traits between different survey categories. Univariable analysis of all factors considered informed multivariable logistic regression models to establish how factors including personality traits differed between dichotomous variables: high to low risk discipline, age groups, unaffiliated to affiliated riders and amateur to professional riders. Results showed that riders in their late teens and early twenties considered themselves less agreeable, less conscientious, but more neurotic compared to older generations (P<0.001). Competitive riders considered themselves more conscientious and extroverted than non-competitors (P<0.005). Riders participating in higher risk disciplines considered themselves less agreeable and conscientious (P<0.05). Increases in agreeableness, conscientious and decreases in neuroticism in older riders might predispose them towards a role in coaching and providing support for younger riders. Personality differences between riders of different disciplines and at different competitive levels might be used to help individuals in their choice of equestrian sport and level of involvement. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates the value of identifying personality traits across different rider cohorts.

The 2023 Grand National steeplechase race was delayed when protesters from the animal rights group, ‘Animal Rising’, gained access to the course just prior to the race. The international media spotlight was focused on what is already a high-profile event and the social licence of both this race and racing in general was scrutinised. Both at the time and for several days afterwards, the general public was exposed to two different narratives from pro- and anti-racing communities. This paper discusses these perspectives and the potential impact on the general public’s relationship with racing. Whilst well-meaning and aiming to promote racing, much of the racing industry’s commentary inadvertently risked damaging its reputation due to a poor understanding of social licence principles. We explore the reasons for these two groups’ alternative perspectives on welfare and suggest considerations for change. Ultimately, if ‘the people’s race’ is to maintain its social licence, the racing community needs to both understand and embrace the concept. Welcoming independent opinions, engaging with different viewpoints, accepting that change is inevitable and, most importantly, being proactive in making changes to prioritise equine welfare will all help racing to move towards greater public acceptance.

Sport performances judged subjectively often suffer from systematic errors due to biases, with the sport of equestrian dressage being no exception. This study examines whether international dressage judges display systematic errors while evaluating elite horse-rider combinations. Data from seven 5* Grand Prix dressage events between May 2022 and April 2023 were analyzed (510 judges’ scores) using Multivariable Linear Regression Analysis. Five predictor variables—Home, Same Nationality, Compatriot, FEI Ranking and Starting Order—were studied in relation to Total Dressage Score (TS). The model accounted for 44.1% of TS variance; FEI Ranking, Starting Order, Compatriot, Same Nationality, and Home were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Judges exhibited nationalistic and patriotism-by-proxy biases, awarding significantly higher scores to riders from their countries (p < 0.001). FEI Ranking and Starting Order also influenced scores significantly (p < 0.001). These biases, combined, created a cascade effect benefiting a specific group of riders. To address this, measures should be taken to develop a more objective judging system that is based on unequivocal, transparent and evidence-based criteria and supports the continuous development of a fair, sustainable, equine welfare orientated sport that fosters societal acceptance,

Equine welfare is an increasingly important topic in the Netherlands and abroad. While existing literature broadly captures equine welfare concerns, research focused on Dutch horse enthusiasts is sparse. This study aims to identify what aspects horse enthusiasts in the Netherlands consider essential to safeguard equine welfare. An online survey comprising four binary yes-no questions, and 12 open questions was disseminated via social media. Survey data were analyzed qualitatively using inductive thematic analysis. The survey received 875 complete responses. Thematic analysis led to the identification of three higher-order themes: Equine Husbandry, Human-Horse Interaction, and Equitation. Aspects relating to Equine Husbandry were mentioned most, suggesting that Dutch equine enthusiasts consider aspects relating to housing and management more important to overall equine welfare. Within this theme, lower-order themes such as the ability to perform natural behavior and feeding were most prominent. On the theme of Human-Horse Interaction, respondents highlighted the importance of understanding horse behavior and human-horse communication to ensure their welfare, as well as ethical considerations for treating horses as sentient beings deserving respect. On the theme of Equitation, various aspects of training the rider and the horse were highlighted, including a sound knowledge of tack and equipment. Respondents emphasized the importance of qualified instruction on horse care and welfare. Despite evident awareness of a wide variety of welfare aspects among equestrians, considerable discrepancy between knowledge and practice persists, pointing to the need for tailored education and training to facilitate better application of welfare principles.