DAMNED if you raise the issue; damned if you ignore it. Horse welfare. A subject that is never far from the headlines, in most cases bringing with it public scorn.

Most public comment and criticism is attributed, by people involved with horses, to a lack of knowledge on the part of those voicing an opinion. In many cases this is probably correct. On the other hand, the question can be asked; does the equine sector do enough to tell its story, and are there occasions when it can do better in terms of welfare?