US Equestrian has confirmed some additional changes to a forthcoming update to GR838, which deals with the reporting and handling of horse abuse incidents. Until December 1, 2024, the rule is written to cover reports of horse abuse at USEF-licensed or endorsed competitions only. This means that reports of abuse, or in the updated language provided for this rule, “unethical treatment of horses” that occur on private property do not currently fall under the USEF’s jurisdiction.
Related to recent reports of abusive behavior on the part of riders such as Cesar Parra in dressage and, later, Andrew McConnon in eventing, US Equestrian undertook an update to the rule that will expand its abilities to enforce this rule on private property. The update will not, however, apply retroactively, which means that reports of unethical behavior that are filed prior to December 1 will not qualify under this jurisdiction.
“Individuals who engage in unethical treatment of horses—regardless of location—are compromising the integrity of our sport and endangering its viability, sustainability, and public perception at a time when all equestrian sport, including USEF-governed breeds and disciplines, is under increasing scrutiny,” US Equestrian wrote in a press release. “Situations such as those that have come to light recently via social media are unacceptable. US Equestrian has heard your concerns and appreciates the courage it takes to report alleged incidents of cruelty to and abuse of our equine partners. We understand and share your frustration that, in many instances, we could not act on incidents that occurred outside of the competition environment.”
The current revisions to GR838 include replacing “cruelty to and abuse of a horse” with “unethical treatment of a horse” to “more accurately reflect US Equestrian’s role as guardian of both sport and our horses.”
This revision will also see the rule applied anywhere unethical treatment is reported, regardless of whether it occurred at a USEF-licensed or endorsed competition. The rule does not give US Equestrian free rein to enter a person’s property unannounced.
“Rather, we will continue to rely on you to report incidents of unethical treatment of the horse,” the press release states. “Once a report is received, US Equestrian will work diligently to interview witnesses with personal knowledge and authenticate any photographs, videos, or other physical evidence related to the alleged incident. This takes time. All allegations are taken seriously. While we are eager to hold wrongdoers accountable, fairness and the integrity of the process dictate that they have the opportunity to be heard and offer evidence in response.”
“The time has come for the US Equestrian community to strengthen our existing leadership on this issue for the betterment of horses and equestrian sport. This also means that each of us must model exemplary behavior at all times. We believe the revisions to GR838, coupled with the existing process and procedures, protect both our horses and our members.”
