Horse and Animal Protection in Modern Law: From Agricultural Resource to Sentient Subject Introduction: Legal Status in Historical Perspective Historically, the horse was considered movable property, a "living thing" (res animalis) in law, reflecting its key economic role in transportation, agriculture, and military affairs. Modern law, especially in developed jurisdictions, has undergone a significant shift, increasingly recognizing the horse (along with other vertebrates) as a sentient being, whose well-being is protected not only in relation to the owner's interests but also due to its inherent value. This gives rise to a complex legal regime, balancing property laws and special animal protection laws that take into account the specific physiological and behavioral needs of the species. Key Aspects of Horse Well-being in the Legal Field Modern legal standards, based on scientific data from zoopsychology and veterinary medicine, focus on ensuring the "Five Freedoms" adapted to horses: Freedom from hunger, thirst, and undernourishment: Legislation requires providing access to fresh water and a diet appropriate for age, weight, and workload. Special attention is given to the quality of roughage (hay, pasture) to maintain gastrointestinal health, which is a species-specific need. Freedom from discomfort: Requires providing adequate shelter from the weather, a safe place to rest (stall with sufficient size, bedding), and the opportunity to lie down. In some countries (e.g., Switzerland, Germany), there are norms for minimum stall area, mandatory turnout, and a ban on permanent tethering. Freedom from pain, injury, and disease: Requires mandatory vaccination, timely veterinary care, and humane handling. This raises an acute issue with sports and working overloads, where legal norms clash with commercial interests. A vivid example is the international scandals in equestrian sports (show jumping, dressage, racing) involving banned methods (fore riding, hyperflex ... Read more