The following Codes of Practice cover all domesticated Equidae for which a person is responsible, including all horses, ponies, donkeys and hybrids.
The Codes give a practical guide for these types of animals throughout the United Kingdom and detail a set of underpinning principles of equine care which are designed to cover the differing management techniques for the many circumstances in which animals are kept.
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.
England – Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses, Ponies, Donkeys and their Hybrids (PDF)
Scotland – Codes of Practice for the Welfare of Animals: Equidae (PDF)
Wales – Code of practice for the welfare of equines (PDF)
National Equine Welfare Council Codes
Code of Practice for Welfare Organisations involved in the Keeping of Horses, Ponies and Donkeys (PDF)
Code of Practice for Markets & Sales involved with the selling of Horses, Ponies and Donkeys (PDF)
Code of Practice for Tethering of Equines (PDF)
