In recent years, the disturbing trend of professional riders being exposed for horse abuse has escalated, revealing a deep-seated problem within the competitive equestrian community. This petition calls for the removal of horses from the Olympic Games to protect these majestic animals from further suffering at the hands of those who prioritize winning over welfare.
Recent Examples of Abuse:
Charlotte Dujardin (2024) - Dujardin, a celebrated Olympic dressage rider, was recently exposed for using harsh training methods that caused physical and psychological harm to a horse. Investigations revealed video evidence of excessive aggressive whipping, which is a clear violation of FEI regulations. Seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcudpwRpLgg
Jeroen Dubbeldam (2021) - The Dutch showjumper, an Olympic gold medalist, was found guilty of using electric spurs during training sessions. Video footage and witness testimonies confirmed the abuse, leading to a temporary suspension by the FEI.
Ludger Beerbaum (2019) - The German showjumper faced allegations of 'parallel bars' training methods, where horses' legs are intentionally hit to make them jump higher. An undercover investigation by a German TV channel provided concrete evidence of this cruel practice, resulting in widespread condemnation.
Cian O'Connor (2017) - The Irish showjumper was penalized after his horse tested positive for a banned substance, highlighting the prevalence of doping to enhance performance. This practice not only endangers the health of the horses but also violates FEI's strict anti-doping regulations.
Andreas Helgstrand (2023) - The Danish dressage rider faced severe criticism when a video surfaced showing Helgstrand employing techniques that caused significant distress to the horses, leading to public outrage and calls for stricter enforcement of welfare standards.
Dr. Cesar Parra (2023) - The Colombian-born, U.S.-based dressage rider was involved in a high-profile case where a video emerged of him severely disciplining a horse during a training session. The footage showed Parra hitting the horse multiple times, leading to investigations and fines for violating welfare regulations.
Abuse at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics - Multiple riders were criticized for harsh treatment of horses during the pentathlon event. Videos circulated of riders excessively whipping and spurring their horses, leading to public outrage and calls for better enforcement of animal welfare rules.
Systematic Violations of Regulations:
Professional riders have been regularly found in violation of both FEI and local horse welfare regulations, including:
Overuse of Whips and Spurs: Despite clear guidelines on the acceptable use of these aids, many riders resort to excessive force, causing undue stress and pain to the horses.
Abusive Training Methods: Practices such as 'rollkur' (hyperflexion) and other extreme training techniques are still prevalent, despite being banned by the FEI.
Doping and Drugging: The use of performance-enhancing drugs remains a serious issue, compromising the health and wellbeing of the horses.
Neglect of Basic Care: Instances of neglect, inadequate stabling conditions, and failure to provide proper veterinary care have been documented among top-tier competitors.
Call to Action:
The continued abuse of horses by professional riders is a grave ethical concern that tarnishes the integrity of the sport and endangers the welfare of these noble animals. We urge the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) to:
Remove Equestrian Events from the Olympics: Until comprehensive reforms are implemented and enforced, horses should not be subjected to the risks associated with Olympic competition.
Implement Stricter Welfare Regulations: Establish and enforce more stringent welfare standards for all competitive equestrian events.
Increase Transparency and Accountability: Ensure that all incidents of abuse are thoroughly investigated and publicly reported, with appropriate sanctions applied.
By signing this petition, you stand with us in demanding an end to the abuse of horses in professional sports. Together, we can protect these beautiful creatures and ensure they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
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