Introduction
This Policy defines our commitments towards animals residing at Horseback - Equestrian and Outdoor Activities Centre. It is based on:
- The Animal Protection Act of 21 August 1997,
- European Union regulations on animal welfare (Art. 13 TFEU),
- The Five Freedoms - an international standard developed by the Farm Animal Welfare Council,
- FEI (International Equestrian Federation) guidelines, according to which horse welfare is always a priority.
The Five Freedoms - Our Commitments
I. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst
Our horses (and cats 🙂) have 24/7 access to clean, fresh water. Diet is tailored - we take into account the age, condition, workload and health status of our horses.
II. Freedom from Discomfort
Horses at Horseback are kept in free-range conditions. Our cats are provided with warm, safe shelter.
More about our free-range keeping: free-range keeping (we comply with legal regulations and the recommendations of the Polish Horse Breeders Association).
III. Freedom from Pain, Injury and Disease
We provide:
- regular veterinary care;
- regular hoof trimming (farrier);
- immediate veterinary intervention in case of injury or illness where such intervention is necessary;
- ongoing monitoring of each horse's health by experienced staff.
IV. Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour
Free-range keeping enables horses to move freely, have social contact with the herd and exhibit natural behaviours - such as mutual grooming and play. We fulfil the needs of our horses as herd animals.
V. Freedom from Fear and Distress
In our work with horses, we use methods based on trust, patience and positive reinforcement. We do not use violence, aggressive training aids or coercion. Our horses are gradually accustomed to new stimuli. Every horse has the right to rest and time off from work. As a result, our horses are excellent in working with children and in hippotherapy for children and adults.
Horse Workload
- Each horse works in a manner adapted to its age, condition, training level and fatigue level on a given day.
- We use a rotation system - horses work alternately and are never overworked. This ensures they work willingly and safely.
- All our horses have at least one day off per week.
- Each horse's condition is assessed before every ride - if a horse shows signs of fatigue, discomfort or reluctance, it is not assigned to work. We also care for our horses' mental well-being.
- During periods of extreme heat or severe frost, activities are limited or cancelled.
- The rider weight limit at our centre is 75 kg.
- Among our horses are senior horses (who also work, if their health, condition and mental state allow it). If not, they retire at our facility and remain with us as a full member of the herd, without the obligation to work.
- We do not trade horses and we do not frequently replace our herd.
Summary
Animal welfare at Horseback is not just a declaration - it is our daily practice, born from our love for animals ❤️. Our horses live in conditions that many horses can only dream of: in the fresh air, in a herd, naturally. We are proud of how we treat our animals.
Policy version: v20260601.