[Horses in Switzerland: results of a representative survey of population, housing and use in 2004].

This study documents the results of a comprehensive survey conducted on Switzerland’s horse population, their housing, and use in 2004. The survey gathered information on a variety of aspects relating to the horse’s life, including their age, breed, housing conditions, health status, and how they are used.

Methodology

• The researchers surveyed 2559 stables across Switzerland in 2004, collecting a broad range of data on the horse population.
• Questionnaire included demographic details such as age, sex, and breed and aspects of horses’ management such as housing, social contact, usage, feeding, and movement freedom.
• The research also encompassed data on horse health, including preventative measures and health issues experienced over the previous 12 months.
• The response rate for the questionnaire was 30.9%, resulting in data for 2912 horses and ponies being recorded and analysed.

Comparison with Previous Survey

• The data gathered in 2004 was compared with a similar survey conducted seven years prior in 1997.
• The focus of these comparative analyses was on changes in horse population numbers, housing conditions, and usage.

Key Findings

• The proportion of horses kept individually, primarily in tie-stalls (a type of stable where horses are tied up), had noticeably reduced since 1997.
• The incidence of horses living in group housing systems had risen over the same period.
• Particular breeds, including Warmblood and Thoroughbred, were more likely to be kept individually than in groups, while Swiss Franches-Montagnes horses were more often found tied up than other breeds.
• Pasture or paddock access was more common among horses maintained in structured group housing systems, though availability was typically more limited during the winter.
• No association was found between the usage or intensity of usage of a horse and the frequency of its access to pastures or paddocks.
• Older horses, specifically those aged over 20 years, although less frequently used or intensively used, were not housed differently from younger horses.