The European Commission has been reviewing animal welfare legislation within the EU under the Farm to Fork Strategy, leading to concerns within the thoroughbred breeding sector. While racehorses have been given exemptions in proposed rule changes, breeding stock and thoroughbreds traveling to auction houses have not. Leadon, a veterinary advisor, has been in discussions with the European Commission to seek a derogation for breeding stock, but so far, attempts have been unsuccessful.
The proposed legislation includes changes such as mandatory veterinary checks, unloading of horses at inspection points, and restrictions on travel for in-foal broodmares. The legislation has raised concerns among industry leaders, with fears that it could have catastrophic effects on the thoroughbred breeding industry. Lobbying efforts are ongoing to seek a derogation for breeding and sales travel within the proposed legislation.
World Horse Welfare does not support derogations for equine transport regulations, including those for the breeding sector. The organization believes that all horses should be covered by basic legislation to protect their health and welfare. There is a call for enhanced electronic traceability for horses to ensure legitimate high-health, high-welfare movements while preventing bad practices. Lobbying efforts are focused on working together to create effective regulation that protects equine health and welfare while allowing the industry to flourish.
