Spanish Riding School Responds to Allegations of Animal Cruelty
The Spanish Riding School has firmly denied recent media reports alleging animal mistreatment within its institution. In a public statement, the organization emphasized that the welfare of its Lipizzaner horses remains its highest priority. According to the school, the allegations originate from an internal staff survey conducted two years prior and do not reflect current practices or conditions.
The Austrian Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has announced it will investigate the matter, following reports that surfaced on national media. The concerns reportedly relate to specific incidents involving young horses and claims of practices that may not align fully with animal welfare regulations. The responsible minister indicated that an internal review has been commissioned to verify the facts surrounding these claims, reiterating that animal welfare is a central concern in the ongoing restructuring of the institution.
The Spanish Riding School stated that all training and care routines for the Lipizzaners adhere to established animal welfare guidelines and are regularly overseen by veterinary professionals. The organization acknowledged that observations from the employee survey were taken seriously, reviewed, and integrated into existing quality and animal protection processes. The school emphasized that there have been no instances of mistreatment and that any behavior compromising animal welfare is not tolerated. Operating according to transparent, well-defined standards, the school maintains that both the physical and psychological well-being of its horses are safeguarded at all times.
Recent assessments by external organizations have also reflected improvements in the school's animal welfare standards. A follow-up audit conducted by the Austrian Court of Audit earlier this year noted progress in areas such as animal health and general well-being. Updates included a revised handbook, clarified responsibilities for animal care, and the implementation of a project aimed at enhancing stable conditions. The audit also recognized advancements in breeding strategies and increased transparency in the training of riders.
This latest scrutiny comes amid broader organizational changes at the Spanish Riding School. Earlier in the year, the institution's managing director was dismissed by the supervisory board due to unrelated allegations concerning travel and expense reporting. The interim management has since been overseen by a former senior official from the agricultural ministry. Legislative representatives have raised questions regarding the handling of both the internal survey and the director's dismissal, with some suggesting the possibility of intentional efforts to undermine previous leadership. Additional parliamentary inquiries have been announced, seeking clarity on the transparency and communication of animal welfare concerns within the organization and to its supervisory board.
The renewed focus on the Spanish Riding School coincides with significant leadership transitions, including the upcoming appointment of a new supervisory board and the conclusion of the application process for a new executive director. The Spanish Riding School operates as a public law corporation and is owned by the Austrian federal government.