Horses
It is essential that all horse owners and carers are familiar with the legislation that governs horse management in Victoria. It’s important that you also know how to secure and care for your horses during emergency situations.
New Horse Welfare Code of Practice
The Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses has been revised.
The new Code includes minimum recommended standards on general care and husbandry practices including provision of feed, water, exercise, hoof care, fencing and stabling, as well as agistment, identification and dentistry.
This Code is not mandatory, and is created under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986. However compliance with the code does provide a defence to an offence under the Act and it is highly recommended that these standards are met (or bettered) in order to protect the welfare of your horse.
For questions about the Code contact the Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or email animal.welfare@dpi.vic.gov.au
Horse management
Read about basic horse care and how to transport your horse safely and correctly.
Learn about the feed requirements of horses.
What you should know about horse agistment.
How to carry out condition scoring and weight estimation on horses.
Some things to consider when caring for horses during droughts and winter.
All Victorian property owners who have horses residing on their property must have a Property Identification Code (PIC).
Read about the laws around microchipping horses.
Caring for horses in emergencies
Ensure you include your horses (and other animals) in your family's emergency plan. Your horses are your responsibility so plan for them.
Read about horses and bushfires
Learn how to plan for an emergency with your horse - Horses and Emergencies Checklist
Find out how to manage water for horses following fires
Small landowners find out how to prepare your property for fire
Find out how to look after horses during floods and droughts and how horse owners can prepare for drought.
Read a guide to equine rescue and rehabilitation.
Legislation
Read the revised Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses at Bush Race Meetings. For a printable colour pdf version, email animal.welfare@dpi.vic.gov.au or call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
Read the legislation regarding horse welfare.
There are strict requirements around operating rodeos in Victoria.
Legislation around the care of horses for hire.
Resources
Horse Notes is a publication produced by DPI which addresses equine biosecurity issues.
