Both domestic and wild horses are in danger due to loss of habitat and cruelty to horses.
Wild horse conservation
Wild horses in the United States are diminishing in numbers at an alarming rate. Conservation efforts are therefore focusing on providing rescue and sanctuary and preserving rare breeds. Wild horses live in herd groups and should be rescued as a group. See more: Domestic Animals Living in the Wild
Horse slaughter
The Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act (H.R. 503) was introduced in the U.S. House on January 14, 2009 by Congressman John Conyers (D-MI) and Congressman Dan Burton (R-IN). The purpose of the bill is to end the slaughter of horses for human consumption and the domestic and international transport of live horses or horseflesh for human consumption. Horse slaughter is against the law in some states, but a federal law is needed to prevent horses being shipped out of state or to Canada and Mexico for slaughter. Most of the horses sent to slaughter are not old or infirm, but rather perfectly healthy horses.
Loss of Land
Land for horses is disappearing at a rate of 6,000 acres per day. This loss of land affects the entire horse industry — sport, recreation and services. If the horse industry disappeared, this would have a profound economic impact, aside from its impact on horse welfare. Efforts are being made to encourage private landowners and local governments to preserve land for horse pastures and trails.
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Related articles:
External links:
- Return to Freedom: American Wild Horse Sanctuary
- Equine Land Conservation Resource and the organization’s Facebook page.
- Saving America’s Mustangs
- Saving America’s Horses
