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<p>This country leads the way in animal welfare, including setting standards for horse
welfare. Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, all owners and keepers of horses must
provide for the welfare needs of their animals. I consider that current legislation
and guidance provides the right safeguards and powers in respect of horse tethering.
However, we will continue to engage with key stakeholders to see if more can be done
to spread best practice among horse owners as well as increased partnership working
in order to tackle the issue of inappropriate horse tethering.</p><p> </p><p>Tethering
can be a useful equine temporary management tool when it is used appropriately. The
statutory Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses, Ponies, Donkeys and Their Hybrids
provides owners and keepers with general welfare information, including a specific
section on the tethering of a horse. Whilst it is not an offence to breach the Code,
if proceedings are brought against someone for a welfare offence under the 2006 Act,
(including failing to tether a horse appropriately and ensuring that it’s welfare
needs are met) it could be used as evidence in support of those proceedings.</p><p>
</p><p>The equine welfare sector promotes good welfare practice through their respective
websites and via social media for example the National Equine Welfare Council’s compendium:
<a href="http://www.newc.co.uk/advice/" target="_blank">http://www.newc.co.uk/advice/</a></p>
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