I posted a few weeks ago on the topic of the Patrik Kittel video that has ignited controversy about hyperflexion, rollkur, and questionable training techniques.  I have to admit, I was a bit surprised by the response I received to this post and felt that an update was in order as there have been some recent developments.  Although Billie has continued to do a stellar job of covering the controversy on Camera-Obscura, there are a few things I want to address here.

First off, I received many informative and helpful comments on the post and want to thank all the readers who offered insight or opinion.  Of particular interest, Billie provided some evidence that Kittel has a history of abusive training practices at shows and on more than one occasion has been found using inappropriately fitted tack on horses bearing sores or even bleeding from the mouth.  Camera Obscura has all the up-to-date information, or if you want to go directly to the article look here.  Kim, at EHTT, put a link to a great informational site on her blog as well.  Check out Dressage Disgrace for a number of excellent articles on the topic of rollkur, including a scientific report on how the position affects a horse’s breathing.

This issue does not seem to be losing much steam and the FEI released a statement on the topic on November 17th.  Unfortunately, it does not appear as though any aggressive action will be taken to put a stop to this practice.  While the FEI claims concern for horse welfare, no concrete action to stop these training methods is being proposed.  Responsibility for preventing rollkur has been placed upon ring stewards at shows who, by numerous accounts, are often ignored or verbally abused by riders.  November 23rd brought a statement from the USDF disparaging the use of hyperflexion; once again, no firm stand was taken and no suggestion was provided for ensuring a stop to the practice.  So far, a lot of very politically correct double talk and no satisfactory action.  As a community, equestrians need to keep the pressure on these organizations to step up and enact change.  One great idea Billie offers is to stop supporting sponsors of those riders that use rollkur:  check the link for her suggestions on companies to avoid.

It is critical to inform these companies, and any others you choose not to support, WHY you no longer support them.  Someone is going to have to start taking financial hits to get people to take notice.  Most importantly, don’t get frustrated or give up.  Remember the Butterfly Effect:  the flapping wings of the tiniest butterfly can create a ripple effect with far reaching consequences.  Be that butterfly.

Image courtesy of Matt Rudge