SIBEQUUS: Integrated Equine Welfare System. Scalable protocols and assisted self-assessment

GO SIBEQUUS is an innovative initiative designed to transform the Spanish equestrian sector by creating a comprehensive animal welfare system. Co-financed 80% by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and 20% with national funds, this plan seeks to develop assessment protocols tailored to the horse's various life stages and uses, from breeding through to sport. The documents set out the implementation of a digital self-assessment tool that will allow professionals to obtain objective diagnoses based on the scientific principles of the "Five Domains" model. The main objective is to guarantee ethical and technical excellence, responding to growing social demand for animal protection. In doing so, the project lays the groundwork for a future quality certification that will position Spain's equine industry at the European forefront. The beneficiary partners of the SIBEQUUS Operational Group are CICAP, Yeguada Cartuja, INGEQUUS, RFEAGAS and EQTIC. Participating as subcontracted entities are IRTA, the University of Seville (FIUS), the University of Córdoba and the Real Federación Hípica Española (RFHE).