Horse society recommending people ‘make own decision’ on riding need

Horse riding has not been banned, but the British Horse Society (BHS) recommends people make their “own individual decisions as to whether riding is necessary at this time”.

A spokeswoman for the equine charity said: “We are getting a lot of questions in relation to riding your horse, for which there are no specific government guidelines at present.

“We advise that it is not appropriate to put unnecessary pressure on the emergency services and everyone should make their own individual decision as to whether riding is necessary at this time.

“An appropriate exercise plan can include regular turn out, use of horse walker and ground schooling.”

Regarding people travelling to yards to visit their horses, she said: “Horse welfare is critical and grooms or the sole carer for a horse should travel to provide care for horses. Where horses are kept in livery, the BHS advises horse owners respect the protocol put in place by the yard owner and work as a team to agree a care plan.”

If your horse needs a vet and you are self-isolating or ill, the advice is not to attend the yard to help ensure the health of staff.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ current advice, while they seek clarification from the government, is “veterinary practices must reduce face-to-face contact, switching to providing emergency care only and urgent prescriptions”.

As regards farriers, horse owners are asked to consider whether or not a visit is essential.