The American Horse Council is pleased to announce the American Riding Instructors Association, International Walking Horse Association, Texas Quarter Horse Association, and the U.S. Eventing Association have all endorsed the AHC National Welfare Code of Practice.

“This latest round of endorsements emphasizes the industry’s unified and continued commitment to the welfare and safety of horses. We look forward to bringing in as many organizations as possible to further reinforce the industry’s commitment to safety, health, care and welfare of all horses,” said AHC President Jay Hickey.

The Welfare Code outlines in generic terms what it means for an organization to be committed to the responsible breeding, training, care, use, enjoyment, transport, and retirement of horses. Many associations have undertaken studies, reviews, and initiatives that show their commitment to the welfare of their horses. This generic code is simply a continuation of that effort.

They join twenty-four other national groups that have already endorsed the Code. They include the: American Association of Equine Practitioners, American Endurance Ride Conference, American Paint Horse Association, American Quarter Horse Association, American Saddlebred Horse Association, Appaloosa Horse Club, Arabian Horse Association, Florida Thoroughbred Breeder’s and Owner’s Association, Harness Horsemen International, Kentucky Horse Council, Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, League of Agricultural and Equine Centers, Masters of Foxhounds Association, National Cutting Horse Association, National Reined Cow Horse Association, National Thoroughbred Racing Association, North American Trail Ride Conference, Pinto Horse Association of America, The Pyramid Society, Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, U.S. Dressage Federation, U.S. Equestrian Drill Team, U.S. Equestrian Federation , and U.S. Trotting Association.

The AHC encourages all members of the equine industry to support and endorse the Welfare Code of Practice as yet another indication to the public, the media, federal and state officials and the horse community that the industry “Puts the Horse First.”

To view the complete Welfare Code of Practice please visit the AHC website at: www.horsecouncil.org/WelfareCode.php.

http://horsecouncil.org/pressreleases/2011_WelfareCode.php Link to This Article on AHC’s Website

As the national association representing all segments of the horse industry in Washington, D.C., the American Horse Council works daily to represent equine interests and opportunities. The AHC promotes and protects the industry by communicating with Congress, federal agencies, the media and the industry on behalf of all horse related interests each and every day.

The AHC is member supported by individuals and organizations representing virtually every facet of the horse world from owners, breeders, veterinarians, farriers, breed registries and horsemen’s associations to horse shows, race tracks, rodeos, commercial suppliers and state horse councils.