Advice for equestrians during the Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak
Advice for equestrians during the Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak
24 March 2020
The British Horse Society is closely monitoring the Government’s advice regarding the Coronavirus outbreak. The situation is changing daily and as a result it is strongly advised that horse owners put together a care plan for their horse should you have to self-isolate or become ill.
The Government’s directive as of 20:30 on Monday, 23rd March is for everyone to stay at home unless travel is absolutely necessary.
Horse welfare is critical and grooms or the sole carer for a horse should travel to provide care for horses. Where horses are kept in livery the BHS advises that horse owners respect the protocol put in place by the yard owner or manager and work as a team to agree a care plan for your horse(s).
There are no specific government guidelines for the question around whether we should still be out riding at present. Our strong advice is that it is not appropriate to put unnecessary pressure on the emergency services now or for the foreseeable future. It is incumbent on all of us to make an individual decision as to whether riding is necessary at all, at this time. Decisions can only be taken based on individual circumstances but our choices should always be mindful of the potential impact for ourselves and others.
The health and welfare of your horse is your priority. If you have any concerns please contact your vet, yard manager or the BHS and we will do our best to assist you. You can contact us via telephone on 02476 840517 (calls may be recorded for monitoring purposes) or email us at welfare@bhs.org.uk.
Please note, while the guidance is current at the point of publication, it may quickly be superseded following further government updates, or changes to the situation. Please bear with us while we make these changes.
