Policy Delphi with vignette methodology as a tool to evaluate the perception of equine welfare.

The research uses a three-round Policy Delphi method, combined with a storytelling approach, to assess the perceptions of various stakeholders in the Irish equine industry towards horse welfare. The study offered potential solutions and identified key issues needing address to improve animal care standard.

Overview of the Research Paper

• This research article is an exploration of the perception and experiences of stakeholders in the Irish equine industry regarding horse welfare. It employed a technique known as Policy Delphi, which is a structured, frequently used method for gathering, managing, and discussing the expert opinions of stakeholders in multiple rounds. In this study, the policy Delphi is used with a vignette methodology, a type of storytelling approach to better illustrate situations.
• Specifically, the research process was divided into three rounds involving 44 representatives from various stakeholder groups. The main objective was to identify perceptions and experiences related to equine welfare, assess the acceptability and frequency of horse welfare issues, understand factors influencing behavior towards horses, and discuss potential solutions for horse welfare improvement.

Research Methodology

• In the first round, the participants were presented with vignettes or scenarios that depicted possible infringements on equine welfare. These vignettes were used to gauge perceptions of ‘Acceptability’ and experiences of ‘Frequency of occurrence’ related to these infringements.
• The second round involved presenting lists of situations where equine welfare might be compromised along with possible behavior drivers and potential solutions. The participants were asked to grade these.
• In the third and final round, two comprehensive issues emerged from the analysis of data from the previous round – the disposal of horse trade, and behavior at unregulated gatherings. These issues were then used, along with the vignette methodology, to survey stakeholder attitudes about the desirability and feasibility of improving standards of horse welfare and how to go about it.

Research Findings

• Crucially, all respondents were fully engaged in the research process, with each one completing all the three rounds.
• The interaction technique of Policy Delphi assisted in obtaining consensus on key issues in equine welfare and potential solutions, through the collective wisdom of the stakeholder representatives. This process helped in identifying the root causes of the problems, acknowledging their complexities, and brainstorming for the best possible solutions.
• The research findings provide a roadmap for addressing the key issues in the Irish equine industry, and directions for further research and policy-making targeted towards enhancing the welfare of horses in the industry.