Serious animal cruelty allegations against riders from NRW
Ex-colleagues report mistreatment - disciplinary proceedings are slow
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A rider from North Rhine-Westphalia is at the center of serious allegations: Former colleagues accuse him of mistreating horses for years. Among other things, he is said to have restrained horses by their heads and tails, tied up their tongues and manipulated their equipment. Witnesses also report excessive training intensity and fearful behavior of the animals.
The German Equestrian Federation (FN) was already informed in April 2024, but referred the matter to the Westphalian Equestrian Federation, where disciplinary proceedings are now underway. The veterinary office has not yet been involved. Despite being dismissed in 2023, the accused rider continues to work in the profession. He rejects all accusations.
Criticism of the associations' reaction is growing. The FN points to its limited options outside of competition sport. For former colleagues like "Annika", who dropped out of her training because of the experiences, one feeling remains above all: being left alone.