When we think about horse welfare, we often focus on physical health—good nutrition, hoof care, and exercise. But true welfare goes beyond the physical. A horse that is physically healthy but mentally broken or struggling is not a happy horse. Fear, stress, and loneliness can be just as damaging as malnutrition or injury.

When we observe wild horses, we see them living in strong, stable herds—where they form deep bonds, communicate constantly, and rely on each other for safety and comfort. Our domesticated horses share these same instincts and needs. When we isolate them in stables or paddocks or constantly change their social groups, we disrupt their ability to feel secure and at ease.

Many of us in Australia rely on agistment for our horses. While full-time stabling is less common here than in other parts of the world, many agistment setups have limited options, often offering only individual paddocks. Even when horses are kept in group paddocks, there is often continual change, with herd members coming and going. This instability disrupts social bonds and can lead to stress, anxiety, and even difficulty adjusting to situations or changes in daily life.

Horses are playful, curious, and deeply social. They need to roll in the mud, scratch on a fence post, and play with their herd. These natural interactions are essential for their well-being. If living through Covid and lockdown taught us anything, it’s how detrimental isolation can be to mental health. Horses are no different! They need companionship, choice, and control over their social interactions to truly thrive.

Promoting Stable Herd Environments for Better Welfare

While many of us may be limited in what we can offer due to time, budget and/or agistment restrictions, we can still advocate for better living conditions:

✅ Choosing options that offer consistent herd environments rather than frequent social disruptions.

✅ Encouraging agistment providers to prioritise long-term herd stability over constantly shifting paddock groups.

✅ Supporting the idea that horses should have companionship, choice, and control over their social interactions whenever possible.

Why a Stable Herd Matters:

✔ Social Bonds & Emotional Security – A consistent herd structure allows horses to form deep relationships, reducing anxiety and stress.

✔ Reduced Stress & Anxiety – When horses don’t have to adjust to ever-changing paddock mates, they become more resilient in daily life.

✔ More Choice & Control – Allowing horses to choose who they interact with, where they rest, and how they move helps create happier, more confident animals.

✔ Safety & Comfort – A stable herd provides natural security, reducing fear and reactivity.

✔ Fewer Behavioural Issues – Without social frustration, horses are less likely to develop vices like cribbing, weaving, or fence-walking.

Providing species-appropriate living conditions should be a priority in how we care for our horses. By promoting stable herd environments, despite our limitations, we can improve their mental and emotional well-being.

Let’s give our horses the life they deserve—one filled with companionship, choice, and security. "