Following the implementation of the expanded Unethical Treatment of Horses rule (GR838), US Equestrian (USEF) has released a new set of Horse Welfare Guidelines to support ethical and humane treatment of horses in training and competition—both on and off show grounds.
Developed by Chief of Sport David O’Connor, the guidelines use a “stoplight” model (green/yellow/red) to help identify and respond to horse and rider behaviors:
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Green: Acceptable/horse-friendly
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Yellow: Caution/monitor
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Red: Unacceptable/needs intervention
These educational tools are modeled after a similar system by the German Equestrian Federation and are intended to support observation, reporting, and ethical decision-making—not replace rules.
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) has endorsed the initiative. Dr. Tracy Turner, AAEP President, emphasized its potential to positively impact horse welfare across disciplines.
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The new Protecting Horses page on USEF.org features:
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A slideshow outlining green/yellow/red examples across categories like movement, posture, riding methods, and equipment use
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The first two videos in the new “Know the Signs” series, with more to come this fall
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A link to a US Equestrian magazine feature explaining how to apply the guidelines
Upcoming webinars are scheduled to further educate the community:
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October 6 – Trainers and coaches
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October 7 – Athletes
Licensed officials have already been trained to use these guidelines and may issue warnings or take disciplinary action based on red-zone behavior. USEF encourages members to report any mistreatment they witness, which may lead to formal investigations and penalties.
Feedback on the guidelines is welcomed at protectinghorses@usef.org. USEF considers this a living document and intends to evolve it with input from the equestrian community.
