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Join the BSHA
The British Show Horse Association
THE BSHA

Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses at Shows

The BSHA is committed to treating all members fairly, equally and with courtesy.

BSHA are members of The Showing Council and their suggested policy, which can be used as best practice guidance, can be found here.

The below information sets out the British Show Horse Association’s expectations for the welfare, management and conduct of horses and people at BSHA affiliated shows. It provides guidance for competitors, members, show organisers, stewards, judges, volunteers and spectators.

  1. Fundamental Welfare Principles
    • Welfare takes precedence at every stage of preparation, training, transport and competition.
    • Good horse management, appropriate training methods, correctly fitting tack and safe transport are essential.
  2. Fitness to Compete
    • Horses and competitors must be fit, competent and in good health before entering any class.
    • Individuals presenting a horse for competition accept responsibility for its condition and suitability.
  3. Vaccinations and Legal Requirements
    • You are advised to keep equine influenza and tetanus vaccinations up to date.
    • Check event-specific vaccination rules in advance; shows may carry out spot checks.
  4. Transport and Travel Welfare
    • Horses must be fit to travel and accompanied by their passport.
    • Provide feed, water and rest stops as required.
    • Use a vehicle designed for safe horse transport and ensure handlers are competent.
    • In extreme weather, plan travel times to avoid the hottest or coldest parts of the day.
  5. Responsibility for the Horse
    • The person in charge of the horse on the day holds full responsibility for its welfare.
    • All responsible individuals must take reasonable steps to meet the horse’s needs in every circumstance.
  6. Supervision
    • Horses must not be left unattended unless secured in a stable, horsebox or trailer and known to behave safely in that environment.
    • For safety reasons, horses must never be left tied and unattended outside a horsebox or trailer.
  7. Weather & Environmental Conditions
    • Adjust management practices according to weather conditions:
      • Limit exposure to direct sunlight in high temperatures
      • Use rugs appropriately in cold weather
      • Use waterproof sheets in wet conditions
    • Grooms may enter the ring with rugs when conditions require.
    • In very hot weather, avoid applying oil to the horse’s quarters or neck, as this prevents effective sweating and cooling.
  8. Overnight Stabling
    • When staying overnight, ensure the horse has appropriate stabling – loose boxes with freedom of movement and constant access to water.
    • Arrange stabling before arriving at the show; horses must not be kept overnight in a horsebox or trailer.
  9. Age and Breeding Restrictions
    • Horses under four years of age are not permitted to be ridden on any showground.
    • Mares in foal may not be ridden after the sixth month of pregnancy.
    • Mares with a living foal born in the current year may not compete in ridden classes.
  10. Stallions and Colts
    • Only competent handlers may manage unridden stallions and colts.
    • Consider temperament carefully; do not bring a stallion to a show if he poses a risk.
    • Stallions must be led from a bit.
    • The Association may disqualify and ask to leave the showground any stallion deemed unsafe.
  11. Competitor Conduct and Responsibilities
    • Competitors must consider the health and safety of other competitors, spectators and all those working or assisting at the show.
    • Exhibitors must hold adequate public liability insurance.
    • When riding outside designated arenas, remain in walk or trot.
    • Use marked horse walks where provided; grooms and spectators must use pedestrian walkways.
    • Inappropriate behaviour toward any horse, judge, staff member, spectator or competitor is unacceptable.
    • Parents and guardians are responsible for the welfare and conduct of competitors under 16.
  12. Warm-Up Arena Conduct
    • Follow standard arena etiquette, including passing left hand to left hand.
    • Maintain awareness of others and give space to anyone experiencing difficulties.
    • Fences must only be jumped in the correct direction.
    • Any horse that falls in the warm-up arena may only continue competing with veterinary approval.
  13. Conduct in the Show Ring
    • Competitors must behave safely and respectfully at all times.
    • Follow instructions from stewards and judges promptly.
    • Work the horse according to its age, fitness and experience.
    • Riders must be an appropriate size for their horse both in the ring and when working in.
  14. Spectator Responsibilities
    • Children must be fully supervised.
    • Dogs, where permitted, must be kept on a lead, controlled and kept away from horses.
  15. Whips, Spurs and Tack
    • Whips may be carried for safety and guidance only and used in the backhand position.
    • Lunge whips are for guidance and forward encouragement only.
    • Spurs may be worn only when permitted by class rules.
    • Tack must be correctly fitted and used in a way that protects the welfare and safety of horse and rider.
    • Only tack permitted in the ring may be used when working in, unless specific permission otherwise has been granted.
    • Ensure crank nosebands are not overtightened.