I am a devoted horse owner and it immensely distresses me how the creatures I dearly love are faced with inhumanity in the name of training. My heart aches to realize that whipping horses' legs is a common practice in dressage training — a method that is undeniably cruel and torturous for these gentle beings. The consensus among the majority of equestrian associations worldwide is that this approach is brutal and unnecessary.

With an effort to let facts speak for themselves, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), physical punishment can lead to fear, anxiety, and increased aggressive behavior in horses (AVMA, 2012). Not only does this barbaric practice inflict physical pain, but it also emotionally damages these emotional sentient beings.

Globally, many countries have toughened laws to combat animal cruelty. For example, the Animal Welfare Act in the UK prohibits causing unnecessary suffering to any animal (Animal Welfare Act, 2006). Despite such measures, clear laws that ban leg whipping in dressage training are still missing in many jurisdictions.

Our horses deserve better. They deserve to learn from techniques that respect their wellbeing and dignity. They should be granted the right to live without fear of unnecessary suffering.

Let's respect the bond we share with our horses and honour these relationships by seeking changes in the law. We're making a call to enact legislation against whipping horses' legs during dressage training, ensuring they receive the respect and care they deserve. Join this campaign and let your voice be heard. Sign this petition today!