No Dogs Allowed.
For years now, we have heard of and seen instances of dogs running loose at three-day events, chasing competitors on the cross country and even in show jumping. Even here at Eventing Nation, we have pondered whether or not dogs should in fact be banned, as owners cannot seem to keep control of their pooches in a reliable manner. The problem is, horse people are also avid dog owners, and you cannot seem to separate the two.
Now, as the 2018 season has just begun, the FEI has laid down a new rule of law: no dogs allowed. Starting in May of this year, all dogs will be banned from the grounds of any competition run under FEI regulations, regardless of discipline.
The decision was announced late last night, with this official statement from FEI President Ingmar De Vos:
“After detailed statements from the FEI Eventing Committee, the FEI Welfare sub-committee, as well as evidence from experts and competitors around the world, the FEI has concluded that the only remaining solution to this safety issue is to remove canines from the equestrian world as we know it.
“Not only are dogs a threat to the safety of horse and rider, but they are a menace to society in numerous ways. It seems to be impossible to train humans to properly control their canine companions through the use of leashes and leads, so we are left with no alternative resolution to the problem.”
This was one of the episodes that was brought forth as recent evidence that all dogs should be banned:
As dog owners ourselves, we are devastated by this news, but as riders and competitors, we are slightly relieved. Can you imagine getting all the way to Kentucky CCI4* only to have a rogue dog bite your horse on the way into a combination? We know that at least Buck Davidson will be a little more secure in his mind as he sets out on course.
Competitors will have a month to adjust to the new regulations, as they are only applied after May 1st of this year. From that date on, if you wish to compete at the FEI level, you will have to hire a dog sitter, or leave a working student at home in charge of the pooch patrol. Dogs will simply not be allowed on the property, regardless of how well behaved they may seem.
……. April Fool!
