BHS warns public against feeding horses

New campaign advises countryside visitors on how to behave around horses

With people starting to get about and about in the countryside as the weather improves, the British Horse Society (BHS) has launched a campaign to raise the public’s awareness of the dangers of feeding any horses or ponies they might encounter on their outings.

Using the title #BeHorseAware, the campaign offers advice on why this seemingly harmless activity is, in fact, so dangerous. The most vital point being that feeding inappropriate foods, plants and, in particular, grass cuttings to horses can lead to them becoming very ill or even dying. Other danger warnings include the possibility of horses fighting over food and causing injury to themselves or others, or accidentally nipping or biting the person offering the food. To bring this message home, the BHS recommends that owners display clear signs politely requesting the public not to feed horses, with an explanation as to why this is so important.

The campaign also advises anyone using the countryside to give horses plenty of space and, if they should see a horse in distress, to alert the nearest farm or yard, or contact the owner if their details are displayed.

In addition, it highlights the Countryside Code, reminding people to close gates, stick to rights of way, take litter home, keep dogs under control and pick up and bin any dog mess, as failure to take these precautions can put livestock, including horses, in danger.

Horse Care and Welfare Project and Partnership Lead at the BHS Gabrielle Madders said: “We believe many people act with no malicious intent and we understand that the current wet weather conditions have been difficult on terrain; members of the public may think that they are helping a horse. However, they will be unaware of the timings at which owners feed their horses and the risks that certain foods or grass cuttings can pose.

“We strongly urge members of the public to consider this and the devastating real-life heartache that has been the reality for many horse owners. If anyone does see a horse that they feel is being mistreated or underfed, we would ask them to contact the BHS Horse Care and Welfare helpline for advice.”

To find out more, visit bhs.org.uk/behorseaware