Warning as ponies’ welfare put at risk by facial oils and gels in hot weather

The vet said putting down an older horses can be the kindest option — Library image.

(Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)

Riders are reminded to put equine welfare before everything else, as concerns are raised about “liberal use of oils and gels on ponies’ faces”.

The National Pony Society (NPS), which has previously warned members about other potential welfare issues, has highlighted the risks of applying such products in hot weather.

The NPS has previously issued welfare-related reminders to members; in 2019, it warned members that action could be taken if ponies are travelled excessively to the detriment of their welfare – and that overweight animals are likely to be penalised. In 2022, it encouraged competitors to choose their qualifying circuits carefully with equine welfare as the paramount concern, to ensure ponies were not travelling the length and breadth of the country in pursuit of Horse of the Year Show tickets.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

TOPICS

Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.

Warning as ponies’ welfare put at risk by facial oils and gels in hot weather

“The NPS is concerned about the liberal use of oils and gels on ponies’ faces,” the society said.

“In some cases, their use is causing sunburn and peeling of the skin, compromising ponies’ welfare. The skin around ponies’ eyes and muzzles is particularly sensitive, so applying any form of make-up or oil may lead to burning and irritation, especially in hot, sunny weather.”

The NPS added that most mountain and moorland breed society rules state that no make-up is allowed in the show ring.

“We encourage all exhibitors to familiarise themselves with the rules and avoid using oils and make-up, putting the welfare of our ponies at the heart of showing,” the society said.

You might also be interested in:

Showing competitors warned action could be taken over excess travelling and overweight ponies

Competitors reminded to not chase qualifiers after ‘ponies shown at opposite ends of the country in short time frame’