This is why people stop believe in our sport
Sometimes one come across things that leaves nothing to analyse, nothing to debate, but only a cold, heavy feeling in your chest. Like yet another reminder, in how far, some parts of the equestrian world still are from the values we claim to stand for.
Once in a while, something crosses your screen that freezes you completely. A horse. A handler. Violence where there should have been care.
Something so far removed from what horsemanship is supposed to be, that all you’re left with is disbelief.
This week I came across a video of a so-called “horse dealer” beating a pony. And as much as I wish I could say this is shocking because it’s rare, the truth is that the modern equestrian world has a way of making you numb.
Not because we stop caring, but because the wrong things keep happening, over and over again.
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Order NowThe footage, which spread quickly in an online equestrian community, shows the man striking the pony numerous times with a whip, both across the body and directly toward the head.
The incident took place in a north European country in early 2023, and came to light only after the videos were posted publicly. Once shared, multiple reports were filed to both authorities and the police.
In the clips, the man is seen riding the pony inside an indoor arena. Throughout the session he delivers several hard blows. During the investigation, multiple experts reviewed the material.
One official veterinarian noted that the pony displays clear signs of fear, stress, and pain, tossing its head, holding it unnaturally high, pinning its ears back, and showing facial expressions associated with discomfort, including flared nostrils and a tightened muzzle.
Convicted, but no additional penalty
A court concluded that the man knowingly caused the pony unnecessary suffering and found him guilty of animal cruelty.
However, the conviction resulted in no separate punishment.
Instead, the offence was absorbed into a previous sentence related to financial crime, where he had already been given community service under supervision.
A related charge under animal welfare legislation was also examined, but both the man and a former associate were acquitted on that count.
The man is thankfully no longer active in the horse industry. Earlier this year, authorities issued an animal ownership ban, prohibiting him from possessing, caring for, or working with animals in the future.
