FEI appoints Dr. Andrew McLean to enhance horse welfare focus

The FEI has enlisted the expertise of Dr. Andrew McLean, an Australian scientist focused on horse welfare, to enhance its initiatives. McLean, a specialist in horse behavior and training, will tackle issues related to horse care and education. He has been awarded the Eureka Science Prize for his research and aims to further establish the 'First Principles of Training' from the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) to promote sustainability and optimal welfare in equestrian sports. In a recent Instagram post, he emphasized the importance of education among riders, trainers, and judges on aspects they may not be aware of.

The First Principles of Training include:

1. Safety for both humans and horses

2. Awareness of the natural needs of horses

3. Consideration of horses' mental and sensory abilities

4. Understanding horses' emotional states

5. Correct application of habituation and calming methods

6. Proper use of operant conditioning

7. Proper use of classical conditioning

8. Proper use of shaping (progressive training)

9. Correct application of signals/aids

10. Promotion of self-management

These principles are designed to make training more horse-friendly, effective, and sustainable.

Who is Andrew McLean?

Dr. Andrew McLean is a highly regarded expert in horse training and behavior. He is the founder of the Australian Equine Behaviour Centre, the largest center for horse behavior modification in the Southern Hemisphere. He has authored six books, including an international bestseller titled 'The Truth about Horses,' and published over 55 peer-reviewed articles. As a former top competitor, McLean has seen success on the international stage, winning the prestigious Gawler Three-Day-Event and representing Australia in eventing. He has competed to Grand Prix level in dressage and show jumping and worked as a licensed racehorse trainer. Beyond equestrian sports, McLean has been involved in humane training practices for elephants in Asia since 2007 through his H-ELP Foundation, which focuses on sustainable methods and the protection of mahouts and elephants. His innovative approaches have notably impacted elephant training in India.

McLean co-founded the ISES in 2005, which promotes horse-friendly training based on scientific insights. He also advises organizations like the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Equine Welfare Advisory Council of Racing Victoria, advocating for better living conditions for racehorses and the gradual elimination of whips. As a respected speaker, McLean delivers lectures at universities and conferences worldwide, including in Australia, Europe, the USA, Canada, and South Africa. His expertise in legal matters related to animal welfare and training methods highlights his leading role in equitation science. In his new role with the FEI, McLean aims to continue advocating for horse-friendly training and sustainable improvements within the equestrian community.