THERE is much truth in Dr Collins’ argument opposite. We should question traditions that prioritise performance, convenience or profit over a horse’s lived experience. Good husbandry is not the same as good welfare, and an expensive stable cannot compensate for isolation, restricted movement or a lack of choice.

That is not to deny the genuine care and commitment shown by the vast majority of people working with horses. Many organise their lives around the animals in their care and routinely put their horses’ needs before their own comfort. But good intentions do not remove the need to examine whether our practices produce good welfare from the horse’s perspective.