PETA Deutschland Files Complaint Against Totilas' Owners

Press Release by PETA

He was considered the best dressage horse in the world. Since his debut, Totilas, the 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood stallion has been at the center of media attention. In 2010, the multiple world champion sold for a record-breaking, double-digit, million dollar sum to Paul Schockemöhle and changed riders to Matthias Alexander Rath.

It has been reported that since then, he has been trained in the style known as "Rollkur" - a systemic overstretching of the neck. PETA also has documented that Totilas beside his training, spends the majority of the day in the box to avoid possible injury. Under natural conditions, they live in groups and move up to 16 hours daily. Lack of exercise can cause long-term behavioral problems and damage to the musculoskeletal system This means a free, self-directed motion be denied. On suspicion of violating the Animal Welfare Act PETA has now filed a complaint against the owner and rider of Totilas. PETA calls for a nationwide ban on animal-torturing training method. 

"Training with the so-called Rollkur is painful and humiliating", Dr. Davina Bruhn, PETA's lawyer says. "In addition, according to our information, Totilas lives in an isolated box attitude. Resulting from the exercise physiological and psychological stresses can thus not be compensated. " 

The controversial training method "Rollkur", is when the head of the horse as drawn to the chest, causing breathing and orientation to be affected tremendously. The application of the "Rollkur" is for horses extremely painful and can cause permanent physical damage. 

For more information: 
PETA.de / Totilas