A prospective study on fitness, workload and reasons for premature training ends and temporary training breaks in two groups of riding horses

In conclusion, as all horses in each subgroup had the same workload, the occurrence of PTEV seemed not associated with the workload. In Group A horses, level of fitness seems to be an important factor for the point in time injuries will occur during the training period. In all horses, injuries were more likely when a temporary training break was not taken following seemingly minor injuries. Since a lot of injured Group B horses were used in riding lessons against veterinary advice, this may indicate that riding school owners have different perception on welfare and if true this may cause serious welfare problems.