The Guide to Good Practices (GvGP) of the Sectorraad Paarden provides a clear and widely supported framework for safeguarding horse welfare in daily practice. In recent years, a shift has become visible within the sector: welfare is no longer only about preventing negative experiences, but also about actively promoting positive ones. This broader perspective on welfare forms the foundation of the revised guide.
Six principles
The GvGP is based on the six principles for animal dignity established by the Raad voor Dierenaangelegenheden. From these principles, key guidelines for responsible horse management have been developed. An important change is the explicit recognition of the intrinsic value and integrity of the horse. In addition, more attention is given to the emotional experience of the animal and the importance of conditions that promote positive feelings.
The GvGP provides practical guidelines in the following areas:
- Proper nutrition: aligned with the natural needs of the horse;
- Appropriate environment: a safe, comfortable, and enriching living environment;
- Good health: preventive care and timely treatment;
- Natural behavior: opportunities for movement, social contact, and natural behavior;
- Positive emotional state: creating conditions in which a horse can feel comfortable.
The guide is digitally available to everyone and helps owners, trainers, breeders, and other equine professionals to structurally improve horse welfare.
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