Horse & Pony Welfare Wales

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 provides owners and keepers with information on how to meet the welfare needs of their animals. There are codes of practice for the welfare of dogs, cats, horses (including other equidae) and privately kept non-human primates.

This Code of Practice applies in Wales only, and came into force on 28th November 2008. It covers all equines for which a person is responsible. For the purpose of the Act an animal’s needs include:-

• has a suitable environment to live in;
• has a healthy diet;
• is able to behave normally;
• has appropriate company, and
• is protected from pain, suffering, injury or disease.

Breach of a provision of the Code is not an offence in itself, but if proceedings are brought against you for a welfare offence the Court will look at whether or not you have complied with the Code in deciding whether you have committed an offence.

You should not cause any unnecessary suffering to your animal; this could constitute a serious offence under the Act.

To view the code click on the icon.

Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses, Ponies, Donkeys and their Hybrids Wales
Estimated Size: 1867KB

Report a Welfare Concern

SWHP on 01600 750233.

SWHP can deal with cases of abuse or neglect of horses or ponies in the approximate area extending from Swansea in the West, to Gloucester in the east and Hereford to the north, with occasional forays over the Severn Bridge to the Bristol area.

The British Horse Society – Telephone: 02476 840571/ 02476 840574 if outside office hours in genuine emergencies telephone 02476 840570

World Horse Welfare Hotline – Telephone: 0800 0480180

Redwings Horse Sanctuary Welfare Hotline & Advice – Telephone: 01508 481008

RSPCA on 0300 1234 999

Last Updated: November 2012