The foot and mouth crisis has been devastating for UK farmers and
the countryside. The horse industry has also suffered from lost trade
and restrictions on movement of horses.
The restrictions imposed have caused a great deal of problems to the
horse industry, ranging from competition riders unable to compete,
to horse owners unable to hack out. Added to that, the terrible scenes
of mass slaughter and burning animals has made the past weeks a difficult
time for all those living and working in the countryside.
As we near the end of April, the Government issues assurances that
the outbreak is under control and the UK countryside is "open for
business." But is it? Farmers and those in the tourist industry are
still suffering, and horse owners are still unable to transport their
horses or ride through the countryside.
So how has the foot and mouth crisis affected you? Is your business
losing money because of it? Or is your horse going crazy because there
is nowhere for you to ride him?
And has anyone had any positive experiences with their horses due
to the changes you have been forced to make?
Whatever your views are, we want to hear them on our
'Riding' discussion board. |
