Protecting the Welfare of Competition Horses in Canada

We, the undersigned members of the equestrian community, respectfully call upon Equestrian Canada (EC) to implement regulations limiting the number of classes, divisions, and rides a horse may compete in during sanctioned jumper, dressage, and eventing competitions.

The welfare of the horse must always come first.

Across all disciplines, horses are increasingly being asked to perform multiple rounds, classes, and divisions over short periods of time. While competition is an important part of our sport, there must be reasonable limits in place to protect horses from physical exhaustion, overuse injuries, stress, and long-term soundness issues.

As riders, trainers, owners, parents, and supporters of equestrian sport, we believe it is our responsibility to advocate for the animals that make this sport possible.

We are asking Equestrian Canada to:

• Establish clear limits on the number of classes or rides a horse may compete in per day and per competition.
• Create discipline-specific welfare guidelines for jumper, dressage, and eventing competitions.
• Encourage fair competition while promoting long-term horse health, soundness, and longevity.

Horses cannot speak for themselves. It is our duty as a community to ensure they are not pushed beyond healthy physical and mental limits for the sake of competition, financial gain, or convenience.

Protecting horses protects the future of our sport.

By supporting this petition, you are standing up for responsible horsemanship, ethical competition practices, and the long-term welfare of equine athletes across Canada.

Together, we can help create a healthier and more sustainable future for our horses.

Sign below to support stronger equine welfare protections in Canadian competition sport.