BACKGROUND: Instituted in 1937 by the German National Federation for the Breeding and Testing of Thoroughbreds, and most likely designed by W. Heitinger (who had designed the German Horseman's’ Badge, the German Horse-drivers’ Badge, and the German Young Horseman's’ Badge), the Badge for the Care of Horses became the centerpiece for the plaque for Outstanding Achievements in Horse Care. It, like the badge, was awarded in bronze, silver and gold, but, unlike the badge, its award criteria is not known.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: The gilt-washed alloy badge takes the form of a wreath of oak leaves, with an "R" (for "Reiter"), within a belt-like surround, to its base, above which, encircled by the wreath, is a profiled, striding horse led by a nude, male handler. A hinged pin is to the top of its hollow-backed reverse, and a corresponding catch is to its base. "Gesetzlich Geschützt" (By-law Protected) is embossed to the reverse of one side of the wreath, and the manufacturer’s name and location, "L. Chr. Lauer Nürnberg-Berlin," is embossed to the other.