Equine Obesity: An Increased Concern in the UK
It is increasingly significant to talk about equine obesity in the United Kingdom, where around 30% of horses and ponies are reportedly overweight or obese [1]. While this represents a clear risk to equine health, new initiatives are been introduced to combat this issue, promoting healthier and happier horses.
People and Horses Weigh to Win
The Horse Trust, a charity with a rich history in advancing the health and wellbeing of horses, launched an ingenious approach to tackle equine obesity in 2018 – "Weigh to Win". This initiative rewards the horse or pony of the healthiest weight in showing classes across the nation, therefore encouraging horse owners to invest in their animals' wellbeing.
Insights from a Training Session: Towards Happier, Healthier Horses
The Horse Trust recently hosted a training session as an expansion of the "Weigh to Win" initiative. This training was designed to provide an "eye-opening" experience for participants, offering valuable insights into effective ways to assess horses' body condition scores and combat obesity.
Understanding the Body’s Score: The Henneke Scoring System
Interactive sessions during the training focused on using the Henneke scoring system [2], a globally accepted methodology for appraising a horse's body fat levels. This hands-on experience provided participants with a deeper comprehension about the importance of maintaining an optimal weight for their horses.
Unmasking Hidden Fat: The Use of Ultrasound Imaging
Another innovative technique employed was the use of ultrasound imaging to locate undesired fat deposits. Unlike traditional methods of assessment, this non-invasive technique provides a clarified picture of the horse's body composition. With such methods, excess fat that might not be visible through conventional techniques is revealed, contributing to a more effective management of body weight.
Measuring Success and Looking Ahead
Commenting on the outcome of the event, Jan Rogers, head of research and policy at The Horse Trust, lauded the engagement and noted improvements in the situation. However, she emphasised that "Equine obesity remains a substantial issue, and we must continue our efforts to raise awareness and offer resources for horse owners."
Although the "Weigh to Win" initiative is a promising tool in promoting healthier horses, it is crucial to continue researching its reach and its impact on horse health, and the prevalence of equine obesity in the UK. Studying the methods used in horse showing in relation to those used in showing other animals, could result in successfully addressing obesity in different species as well.
As the discourse around equine obesity unfolds, let's remember the importance of employing the appropriate language to address this considerable issue. By emphasising the positive consequences of actions like "Weigh to Win", we can foster a culture of health and wellbeing for our equine comrades. The benefits of a community of happy, healthy horses cannot be overemphasized.
References:
[1] "Equine Obesity Prevalence in the UK: A Systematic Review." Equine Veterinary Journal. 2020;52(3):323-331.
[2] Henneke, C. "Body Condition Scoring of Horses: A Practical Approach." Wageningen Academic Publishers; 2004.
