The #BeHorseAware Campaign: Raising Awareness about Feeding Horses in the Countryside
You might be picturing a serene afternoon walk amid verdant fields, coming across a friendly horse and offering it a slice of your apple or handful of grass – a harmless, idyllic picture, right? Well, hold your horses, there's a twist to this tale. The #BeHorseAware campaign, recently launched by the British Horse Society (BHS), emphatically urges the public to think twice about feeding horses or ponies they encounter during their countryside jaunts.
The Hidden Risks of Feeding Horses
What might seem like a kind, innocent act might actually put our equine friends at serious risk. The BHS asserts that feeding horses with inappropriate food, plants, or even grass cuttings could precipitate major health issues or, in severe instances, lead to horse fatalities. As nature's selective eaters, horses have highly sensitized digestive systems, and unexpected dietary introductions can lead to colic, a potentially fatal condition. Some usual kitchen ingredients like onions, garlic, and potatoes are strangely toxic to horses, capable of triggering severe illness or even causing death.
It's Not Just About What They Eat
Feeding horses also risks setting a stage for dangerous stand-offs. Hungry horses might fight over food, leading to injuries or, in appalling situations, fatalities. Desperate to reach that dangling carrot, horses might inadvertently harm themselves or even the kind-hearted person offering food. Over time, horses might also grow excessively reliant on human handouts, upsetting their natural feeding cycles and leading to health concerns.
What Can We Do?
The BHS's firm advice to the public is to avoid feeding horses altogether. Instead, let horses forage naturally and maintain a safe distance. Those spotting distressed horses are encouraged to alert local authorities or speak to the RSPCA to ensure these animals get the help they need.
Respecting the Countryside – Understanding the 'Countryside Code'
The #BeHorseAware campaign also underlines the importance of adhering to the 'Countryside Code'. This guideline encourages responsible behavior when exploring the great outdoors, encompassing respect for livestock and their habitats, keeping dogs under control, and ensuring wildlife disturbance is minimal.
The Bottom Line
So the next time you cross paths with a horse on your countryside adventure, remember the cute and catchy #BeHorseAware. By refraining from feeding them and adhering closely to the Countryside Code, you can play a valuable part in ensuring their safety and overall well-being - making your countryside visits not just fun, but also responsible adventures. For further insight into horse care and welfare, drop by the BHS's dedicated campaign website here.
References:
- #BeHorseAware: Understanding the Risks of Feeding Horses in the Countryside
- BHS warns public against feeding horses
- www.bhs.org.uk/behorseaware