The foundation of best-practice equine welfare is the commitment to providing every horse under care with the Five Freedoms. Organizations dedicated to the highest standards of care, such as those in the Horse Shelter Network, wholeheartedly pledge to uphold this framework, ensuring that the physical and mental well-being of every horse is the primary consideration in their daily operations.
A core tenet of the Full Circle of Life philosophy, this freedom is ensured by providing ready access to clean, fresh water and a targeted, high-quality diet designed to restore and maintain the horse's full health and vigor throughout every stage of life.
This freedom is upheld by providing an appropriate, species-specific environment, including access to reliable shelter and a clean, comfortable resting area at all times.
The Horse Shelter Network is committed to ensuring that every horse is free from unnecessary suffering and enjoys a life of quality. The best practice standard requires members to provide the necessary medical care through proactive prevention, rapid diagnosis, and immediate, effective treatment. If a horse cannot achieve a quality of life free from pain and disease, the Last Act of Kindness must be to relieve its suffering by humane euthanasia.
In alignment with the Full Circle of Life commitment, this freedom is secured by providing sufficient, safe space, proper equine facilities, and, where appropriate for their well-being, the company of their own kind to allow for natural social and behavioral expression.
Central to the comprehensive care model of the Horse Shelter Network, this freedom is maintained by ensuring all conditions, handling, and training treatments avoid mental suffering, promoting a calm environment built on trust and ethical interaction.
Five Freedoms was established by the Farm Animal Welfare Council
1. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst - by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour.
2. Freedom from Discomfort - by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
3. Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease - by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
4. Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour - by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind.
5. Freedom from Fear and Distress - by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.