Scottish guidance update 

Have your say in updating the Scottish Codes of Practice for the Welfare of Equidae and be part of our work to safeguard the wellbeing of Scotland’s horses.

The Scottish equine sector (led by BHS Scotland, World Horse Welfare and Horsescotland) and the Scottish Government are currently revising the Scottish Code of Practice for the Welfare of Equidae, and developing new, up-to-date guidance to better support owners and keepers (and other professionals) – and we want to hear from you. Your views will help ensure that the updated guidance is not only practical and evidence-based but crucially reflects the needs of Scotland’s horses and those that care for them. 

The existing Codes were developed several years ago and we are now updating them to ensure they continue to provide clear, relevant and effective guidance on the care and welfare of horses, ponies, donkeys and hybrids in Scotland. This is an important opportunity to shape the standards and advice that support owners, professionals and enforcement teams across the country. 

Your insights will help us: 

• Ensure the new guidance reflects current best practice in equine welfare
• Identify areas where the guidance could be clearer, more accessible or more practical 
• Understand the needs of owners, professionals and the wider equine sector 

Whether you are an owner, keeper, professional, organisation or simply someone with an interest in equine welfare, your views are important. 

Review the draft guidance 

As part of this consultation, you can read the draft updated guidance. 

Please note that this draft is still in development and may be refined further based on the feedback we receive. We encourage you to review it before completing the survey, as your comments on its structure, clarity and content will be especially valuable. 

Take part in the Consultation 

Please complete the short survey linked below. It should take no more than 5 minutes, and all responses are collected anonymously and will be treated confidentially. 

Your participation will directly inform the next version of Scotland’s equine welfare guidance.