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Home / Equine Research Bank / Vet Rec / Welfare in horse breeding.
The Veterinary record2015; 176(17); 436-440; doi: 10.1136/vr.102814

Welfare in horse breeding.

Abstract: Welfare problems related to the way horses are bred, whether by coitus or by the application of artificial reproduction techniques (ARTs), have been given no discrete consideration within the academic literature. This paper reviews the existing knowledge base about welfare issues in horse breeding and identifies areas in which data is lacking. We suggest that all methods of horse breeding are associated with potential welfare problems, but also that the judicious use of ARTs can sometimes help to address those problems. We discuss how negative welfare effects could be identified and limited and how positive welfare effects associated with breeding might be maximised. Further studies are needed to establish an evidence base about how stressful or painful various breeding procedures are for the animals involved, and what the lifetime welfare implications of ARTs are for future animal generations.
British Veterinary Association.
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Publication Date: 2015-04-25 PubMed ID: 25908746PubMed Central: PMC4431322DOI: 10.1136/vr.102814Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

This research article looks at the potential welfare problems in horse breeding, both in traditional methods and artificial reproduction techniques, while emphasizing the need for more data and studies in these areas.

Welfare Problems in Horse Breeding

  • The author discusses that no specific attention has been given within academic literature towards issues associated with the way horses are bred, whether this is done naturally or through modern reproductive methods.
  • This paper strives to review the current knowledge on animal welfare issues in the realm of horse breeding, indicating the sizable gaps when it comes to reliable data.

The Potential of Artificial Reproduction Techniques (ARTs)

  • Understanding that every form of breeding can potentially lead to welfare problems, the author highlights that ARTs may at times be a solution to these difficulties.
  • However, the author stresses the need to ensure such methods do not introduce more harm than good – a topic that warrants further research.

Addressing Negative Welfare Effects

  • It is discussed how negative welfare effects in horse breeding could be identified and limited. Some negative welfare effects might arise from stressful or painful breeding procedures.
  • The author suggests that increasing the positive welfare effects of breeding could also significantly contribute to the well-being of horses in breeding.

Need for Further Studies to Evaluate Welfare Impacts

  • Finally, the author calls upon the research community for more efforts to establish an evidence-based approach towards understanding the level of stress or pain various breeding methods cause to the animals.
  • The writer also emphasizes the importance of analyzing the impact of ARTs on the lifetime welfare of future horse generations to ensure such techniques are not leaving lasting negative impacts.

Cite This Article

APA
Campbell ML, Sandøe P. (2015). Welfare in horse breeding. Vet Rec, 176(17), 436-440. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.102814

Publication

The Veterinary record
ISSN: 2042-7670
NlmUniqueID: 0031164
Country: England
Language: English
Volume: 176
Issue: 17
Pages: 436-440

Researcher Affiliations

Campbell, M L H
  • Department of Production and Population Health, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, South Mymms, Herefordshire AL9 7TA, UK.
Sandøe, P
  • Department of Large Animal Sciences and Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 25, 1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.

MeSH Terms

  • Animal Welfare
  • Animals
  • Breeding / methods
  • Horses
  • United Kingdom

Grant Funding

  • Wellcome Trust

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Citations

This article has been cited 6 times.
  1. Harris IT, Maddock C, Farnworth M, Nankervis K, Perrett J, Pyatt AZ, Blanchard RN. Temporal trends in equine sperm progressive motility: a systematic review and meta-regression.. Reproduction 2023 Jun 1;165(6):M1-M10.
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