Is horseback riding vegan

Answer 1

If you are trying to live a true cruelty-free vegan lifestyle then whether or not you ride horses will require some reflection and introspection. There is a great variety of riding styles, from the very mild Parelli method to the abusive practices of the thoroughbred racing communities. Your riding style probably falls somewhere in between, so here are two important things to consider:

Do you find that your horse is often resistant to work or that he does his job with enthusiasm? Each horse is suited to a different lifestyle, and the comfort of the individual animal must be taken into account.

Do you notice your horse acting differently when using certain equipment? Is he very spookish around the crop, uncomfortable when you use a certain bit, etc. You might want to consider changing the equipment if you sense that it is causing him to suffer, even minimally.

Additionally, do you use leather equipment? There are synthetic alternatives if you are willing to sell your current leather ware.

Other than that, you have to think about the environment that the horses are kept in and whether you agree with the practice. Most vegans would agree that having a pet dog is vegan, but horses are very different creatures, which we have to continue to break in each successive generation. Their lives with us are very different than their lives without. But if you feel that you can give your horse or the horse that you ride a comfortable and empowering life, then go with your gut.