Following the release of the footage showing 'Sir' Mark Todd whipping a horse with a branch (with force and vigour), this petition aims to have him stripped of his Knighthood.
in 2022 we have a WEALTH of knowledge from science and dedicated professionals which demonstrates sentience in mammals (a bill going through parliament in the UK). That means they experience PAIN and EMOTION as we do.
Empathetic and 'horse-centred' equestrians will have learned by now that traditional methods of horsemanship are outdated, cruel, and counter-productive. Treating an animal with respect, ensuring health (both physical AND psychological welfare) is paramount - and actually not hard to do if you possess compassion.
Striking a horse (or any animal) with ANYTHING, be it branch, whip, strap, whatever, is out-and-out CRUELTY. There is NO excuse. What Mark Todd did, however much he may regret it now that it's been caught on camera, looked like a very natural response - he was not defending himself against an attack, he was striking to force the horse to cross the water - something the horse clearly felt uncomfortable to do, and that's the horse's RIGHT.
Someone who has been honoured by the Sovereign with a Knighthood has been deemed to have contributed significantly to the Realm, and is thereafter a mark of high regard. No Knight of the Realm, no 'Sir' is worthy of that recognition if they are prepared to inflict emotional and physical distress to an animal.
As a past champion in equestrian sport, we expect more. We expect a high level of understanding and compassion towards any equine (any animal) that he has the good fortune to be working with. This is a huge demonstration that this is not the case.
This behaviour needs addressing, punishing and calling out. PLEASE SIGN to help raise awareness that this behaviour will NOT be tolerated.
Thank you so much
Angela Hall BSc (Hons), F.I.S.A.P, MIRVAP(MT) MIEP MICAN
Kate Thornton CAB F.I.S.A.P MICB MICAN MIEP