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FEI Propose a Fine On Loose Dogs
A fine for loose dogs at equestrian events has been proposed by the FEI.
In the ‘Proposals for 2019 Modifications to the FEI General Regulations’, the FEI suggested a CHF 100 fine for loose dogs at their events; the equivalent to £76. Consideration of a fine for loose dogs comes after numerous high-profile dog incidents, occurring at recent events.
Recent large equestrian events have had problems with loose dogs, affecting riders, horses and their performance. In March, Andrew Hoy experienced issues with a loose dog after the advance-intermediate section at Gatcombe. Andrew Nicholson has also had a similar issue during the current event season, at Bramham.
The FEI support their proposal for a loose dog fine, stating;
There is currently no provision in the FEI Rules about dogs at FEI Events and some Disciplines have references to it in the Schedule. It is proposed to clarify that dogs must be leashed at FEI Events as otherwise it can be dangerous for the horses/riders if there are loose dogs running.”
The new regulation that the FEI would like to impose is;
If allowed at the Event, all dogs must be leashed and affixed to a human or stationary object. Violation of this rule will incur a fine of CHF 100 per offence and, in case of a repeated offence at the Event, may lead to exclusion from the Venue.”
The rule would cover all FEI disciplines, internationally and a final draft will be submitted and voted on in November, at the FEI General Assembly. If the new rule is approved, it will come into force 1st January 2019.
Luhmuhlen, Germany has already installed a £220 fine on loose dogs, after a rider was chased during cross-country; the FEI is expected to follow suit.
Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.