Horses, ponies and other domesticated equines should be provided with the companionship of other domesticated equines or appropriate species, in accordance with the needs of their species, and the individual equine. Horses, ponies and other domesticated equines require specialised knowledge in farriery, dentistry, and veterinary treatment.

SPCA supports the use of microchipping and registration of horses, ponies and other domesticated equines instead of branding.

If freeze branding is carried out, it should only be performed by a veterinarian, or a veterinary student under the direct supervision of a veterinarian with adequate and appropriate medical care prior to, during, and after the procedure, including anaesthesia and analgesia.

At a minimum, freeze branding must be performed in accordance with the Animal Welfare (Care and Procedures) Regulations 2018.

SPCA opposes the use of hot branding to identify animals due to the pain associated with this procedure.

It will be an offence to hot brand after the 9th May 2026.

The castration of equines must be performed by a veterinarian with adequate and appropriate pain management.

Pain relief must be provided prior to, during, and after the operation and include anaesthetic and analgesic.

Surgical castration is a painful and stressful procedure with the risk of complications, pain and distress if not performed appropriately or if sufficient pain management is not provided. In both cases of surgical and non-surgical castration, adequate and appropriate medical care must be provided prior to, during and after the operation and include anaesthetic and analgesic.

Rectal examination of equines must be performed by a veterinarian. If the rectal examination is performed for the purpose of artificial insemination (AI), SPCA advocates that this should only be performed by a suitably trained and experienced AI technician with qualifications from a recognised training authority.

Rectal examinations, including for pregnancy and colic diagnosis, carry a significant risk of complications and resultant pain and distress. Ensuring that this procedure is only carried out by a veterinarian will minimise the risk to the animal involved and ensure that complications can be managed appropriately.

SPCA opposes transport of injured or sick equines for the purposes of euthanasia.

The euthanasia of horses, ponies and domesticated equines must be performed by a person who is trained and capable and has appropriate equipment for the task. Equine euthanasia should be done on-site to avoid transporting the animal. If euthanasia is required, but it cannot take place on-site, the animal must travel directly from their current position to the closest veterinarian or slaughterhouse.