A comprehensive analysis of living conditions, health, and management practices of horses in Turkey's Inner West Anatolia region
The welfare of animals in human care is a topic of growing global concern, and for horses, this scrutiny is particularly intense. From equestrian sports to recreational riding, the well-being of these majestic animals is under the microscope.
A groundbreaking study conducted in Turkey's Inner West Anatolia region offers a rare, scientific look into the living conditions, health, and management of horses in this specific cultural and environmental context 1 4 . This research not only provides a snapshot of current welfare status but also serves as a crucial case study for understanding the complex balance between traditional practices, owner knowledge, and optimal animal care.
Horses with parasites despite treatment
Personnel with formal animal health knowledge
Farms assessed in the study
Before examining the study itself, it's essential to understand the framework scientists use to assess animal welfare. Historically, welfare was judged primarily on physical health. Today, experts recognize that true welfare encompasses both physical and mental well-being.
The most contemporary model for understanding welfare is the Five Domains Model, which provides a comprehensive framework for assessing an animal's quality of life 7 .
Access to appropriate food and water
Shelter, space, climate, and safety
Physical condition, fitness, and absence of disease
Freedom to express natural behaviors
Subjective experiences, feelings, and comfort
The first four domains focus on physical and functional aspects that can be measured objectively. Based on the findings in these areas, scientists then make cautious inferences about the fifth domain: the animal's mental and emotional state 3 . This holistic model moves beyond mere survival to assess an animal's overall quality of life.
To gain a detailed understanding of horse welfare in the region, researchers undertook a systematic assessment across 53 horse farms in the provinces of Afyonkarahisar, Eskişehir, Kütahya, and Uşak 1 4 . The study employed a multi-faceted approach to gather robust data:
Researchers directly measured environmental conditions within the horse shelters, including temperature, humidity, and levels of gases like carbon dioxide, oxygen, and ammonia 1 .
The team observed the horses and their environments, noting details about housing, grooming, hoof care, and overall condition.
A key component was a fecal parasitic examination to determine the prevalence of internal parasites, a common welfare issue 1 .
Personnel at the farms were interviewed to understand their management practices, experience, and knowledge of animal health and welfare 1 .
The study revealed a mixed picture of horse welfare in Inner West Anatolia, with several positive practices alongside significant areas for concern.
| Parameter | Average Measurement | Implied Welfare Concern |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 20.7°C | Within generally acceptable range |
| Humidity | 38.6% | Within generally acceptable range |
| Carbon Dioxide | 848.0 ppm | Indicator of inadequate ventilation |
| Oxygen | 20.9% | Slightly below fresh air level (21%) |
| Ammonia | 5.0 ppm | Low level, but potential irritant at higher concentrations |
| Data sourced from the Inner West Anatolia welfare study 1 | ||
One of the most revealing aspects of the study was the discrepancy between reported parasite control and actual parasite prevalence. This finding serves as a powerful example of how objective data can uncover hidden welfare issues.
Researchers found that while farm managers reported using antiparasitic treatments, the fecal examinations told a different story: over 61% of the horses still hosted parasites 1 . This high rate of infestation indicates that the methods used for parasite control were likely ineffective, inconsistent, or based on outdated knowledge.
Data illustrates the gap between farmer perception and scientific assessment 1
This single finding has cascading effects on multiple welfare domains:
Internal parasites can cause weight loss, colic, diarrhea, and damage to the intestinal tract and other organs, directly compromising physical health 1 .
Parasites compete with the host for nutrients, meaning that even well-fed horses may be malnourished.
Chronic discomfort, pain, and lethargy associated with parasitic infection negatively impact the mental well-being of the horse 7 .
A central theme emerging from the study is the critical role of human knowledge. The finding that only 3.8% of personnel had formal training in animal health and welfare, despite most claiming experience, is a crucial piece of the puzzle 1 . This knowledge gap likely explains several of the other deficiencies found.
Only a tiny fraction of personnel had formal training in animal health and welfare, despite 90.6% claiming experience in horse breeding.
For researchers and veterinarians aiming to conduct similar welfare assessments, a specific set of tools and knowledge is required. The following outlines some of the essential "research reagents" and their functions in evaluating equine welfare.
Measures levels of CO2, O2, and ammonia in stables to assess air quality and ventilation.
Used to record an average of 848.0 ppm CO2 in Anatolian shelters 1 .
Identifies the presence and type of internal parasites through microscopic analysis.
Revealed the 61.7% parasite prevalence despite farmer reports 1 .
A standardized catalog of species-specific behaviors used to record and analyze horse behavior.
Could be used to document stereotypic or abnormal behaviors indicating poor welfare 4 .
A structured framework for ensuring a holistic assessment of physical and mental welfare.
Provides the theoretical basis for modern welfare science, beyond just physical health 7 .
The study on the welfare of horses in Inner West Anatolia provides a valuable, evidence-based roadmap for improvement. It demonstrates that even with good intentions and adherence to some ideal standards, critical gaps in knowledge and practice can significantly compromise animal welfare.
Shifting the mindset to view welfare through a framework like the Five Domains Model ensures that both physical and psychological needs of horses are met 7 .
This research underscores that horse welfare is a universal concern, transcending geography. By applying scientific rigor and a compassionate framework, we can better understand and enhance the lives of these animals who have served humanity for millennia. The findings from Anatolia are not just a local report card; they are a mirror reflecting global challenges and opportunities in our enduring partnership with the horse.