Bitting requirements differ across the breed shows and events that host more than just Western Dressage. In order to design a universally inclusive discipline across all breeds and encourage equestrians to explore Western Dressage; WDAA felt obliged to respect the differences in bitting requirements which were already being regulated at breed and USEF competitions. The WDAA Rules Task Force remains very focused on re-evaluating factors like bits on a regular basis. It is continuously making recommendations deeply rooted in the welfare of the horse.
With that being said, the WDAA is an educationally based organization, which does not encourage, promote or condone the forceful, harsh or inappropriate treatment of the horse. We take the elements of our Mission Statement very seriously: In our mission we state, “We honor the horse” and “We value the partnership between horse and rider”. It is our belief that a progressive system of developing the physical and mental well-being of the horse is paramount to being able to successfully highlight the hallmarks of a Western Dressage horse and rider experience. During Western Dressage competitions, Show Officials like Judges, Stewards, Technical Delegates or Equipment Judges will NOT tolerate any abuse of a horse.
It is with these ideas in mind that WDAA supports the Train the Trainers™ Clinic series and is developing the Cornerstone Educational Program™ for judges, stewards, equipment judges, exhibitors and members. Additionally, various WDAA standing committees or task forces such as Rules and Tests, provide a constant forum for Western and Traditional Dressage professionals, Alliance Partners and other experts to continuously provide input and review for rule development and clarification. Our ability to become a USEF Recognized Affiliate will enhance our resources to both develop and enforce rules that support the welfare of the horse and fair play.
The Western Dressage Association® of America is a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit organization focused on providing a model of horsemanship which optimizes the partnership of horse and rider for their mutual benefit. The mission of the Western Dressage Association® is to honor the horse, to value the partnership between horse and rider and to celebrate the legacy of the American West which it focuses on through its offerings of educational opportunities and events to the equestrian community. Read more about Western Dressage and the WDAA at their website http://www.westerndressageassociation.org.