1. Purpose of This Policy

Human Herd and Harmony (“we”, “us”, or “our”) is committed to ensuring the highest standards of care, respect, and ethical treatment for all horses involved in our activities. This policy outlines how we safeguard the physical and emotional wellbeing of horses and ensure that all interactions with them are responsible, humane, and aligned with best practice.

2. Our Commitment to Horse Welfare

We are committed to:

• Treating every horse with dignity, kindness, and respect
• Providing environments that support physical, mental, and social wellbeing
• Ensuring horses are never subjected to fear, distress, or unnecessary pressure
• Following recognised welfare frameworks such as the Five Domains of Animal Welfare
• Ensuring all handlers act with competence, patience, and compassion
• The welfare of the horse always comes before human convenience or activity.

3. Standards of Care

We ensure that all horses in our care or involved in our activities receive:

3.1 Nutrition

• Access to clean, fresh water at all times
• A balanced diet appropriate to age, workload, and health
• Feeding routines that support natural grazing behaviour

3.2 Environment

• Safe, clean, and well‑maintained living spaces
• Adequate shelter from weather conditions
• Freedom to move, rest, and express natural behaviours
•  

3.3 Health

• Regular veterinary care, vaccinations, and dental checks
• Appropriate farriery or hoof care
• Immediate attention for illness, injury, or discomfort

3.4 Behavioural Wellbeing

• Opportunities for social interaction with other horses
• Environments that reduce stress and promote calmness
• Activities that respect the horse’s natural instincts and communication

4. Handling and Interaction

All interactions with horses must be:

• Calm, patient, and respectful
• Free from force, intimidation, or punishment
• Based on understanding equine body language and behaviour
• Conducted by individuals who are competent or supervised appropriately

We do not permit:

• Rough handling
• Use of fear‑based techniques
• Overworking or overloading horses
• Any equipment that causes pain or distress

5. Workload and Participation

Horses must only participate in activities that are:

• Suitable for their age, fitness, and temperament
• Free from excessive physical or mental demands
• Designed to allow rest, choice, and recovery

A horse may be withdrawn from any activity if:

• They show signs of stress, fatigue, or discomfort
• Weather or environmental conditions pose a risk
• A handler or representative has concerns about welfare

6. Transport and Movement

When horses need to be transported, we ensure:

• Safe, well‑maintained transport vehicles
• Competent loading and unloading practices
• Minimal travel time and stress
• Compliance with UK animal transport regulations

7. Responsibilities of Staff, Volunteers, and Participants

Anyone interacting with horses through Human Herd and Harmony must:

• Follow this policy at all times
• Report any welfare concerns immediately
• Treat horses with patience, empathy, and respect
• Seek guidance if unsure about handling or behaviour

We reserve the right to remove any individual who breaches welfare standards.

8. Reporting Concerns

If you witness or suspect any breach of this policy, you should report it to us immediately. We will:

• Take all concerns seriously
• Investigate promptly and fairly
• Take appropriate action to protect the horse’s welfare

10. Review of This Policy

This policy is reviewed annually or sooner if:

• Welfare standards change
• Legislation is updated
• New practices or activities require additional guidance

The “Last updated” date will reflect the most recent version.

11. Contact Us

For questions or concerns about this policy, please contact:

Name of company - HUMAN HERD & HARMONY CIC

CIC Number - 17263852

Registered office - 19 Range Road ME12 4DU.

Contact details - info@humanherdandharmony.org

Regulatory authority - Swale Borough Counci