Indagine sulla proprietà responsabile di equini sportivi in Italia / A survey of responsible sport horses ownership in Italy

Abstract

Horse management involves multiple factors that directly or indirectly affect the animal’s health and well-being. This study investigates the management practices of sport horses in Italy, with particular focus on the awareness and responsibilities of horse owners and facility managers. A national survey was conducted using an online questionnaire developed by the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise, in collaboration with other key partners including the Ministry of Health Office2, FISE, IZSLT, IZSLER. The questionnaire was designed to cover various thematic areas, including the socio-demographic profiles of the respondents, logistical arrangements within horse facilities, familiarity with relevant legislation, knowledge of health practices, and the concept of responsible ownership, including the management of horses after their competitive careers. The survey aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of management of sport horses in Italy. Participants from different backgrounds contributed to the study anonymously, allowing for 855 responses to be obtained. The comprehensive structure of the questionnaire enabled a detailed examination of both the facilities where horses are kept and the practices used by those responsible for their care. One of the main objectives of the study was to obtain information about the level of knowledge and understanding that horse owners and facility managers have regarding the best management practices for horses. The purpose of this article is to report on the most significant data obtained.
However, despite the good number of replies, some disciplines and sectors were not statistically well represented. It is hoped that the shortcomings identified by this survey, such as the lack of statistically significant coverage in some areas, will be addressed with subsequent surveys using different dissemination methodologies.
In conclusion, the study indicates the level of awareness expressed by respondents and provides information on thematic areas that could benefit from further in-depth studies in the future, or suggest thematic areas that require continuing training and information dissemination to ensure that all individuals involved in the management of sport horses are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.