“To protect the health and welfare of the horse” is one of the AAEP’s most important pursuits. Guided by the Welfare & Public Policy Advisory Council, the AAEP’s efforts include the development of guidelines that help veterinarians and the equine industry implement appropriate standards of humane care for the horse.
The association and its members also provide direct benevolent assistance to horses and charitable groups, including rescue and retirement facilities, international aid projects and emergency relief during natural disasters. Key industry initiatives, such as the Unwanted Horse Coalition and the Racing Medication & Testing Consortium, were formed from the AAEP’s sponsorship and commitment to equine welfare and practices in the best interest of the horse.
Equine Abuse, Neglect and Abandonment Resources
Prepared by the Equine Abuse & Neglect Subcommittee of the WPPAC, the following resources have been compiled to empower veterinarians to address and prevent equine abuse and neglect. The AAEP encourages its members to proactively establish a relationship with local law enforcement to prevent equine neglect and abuse in your communities and form a strong team when faced with a case.
The Subcommittee is now offering a mentoring service to veterinarians who need guidance when involved in an abuse or neglect case. To request to be connected to a member of the group, please first contact Sally Baker, AAEP staff liaison, at sbaker@aaep.org or (859) 233-0147.
- The Veterinarian's Role in Equine Neglect Cases - Zoom webinar featuring Drs. Erin Gatz, Lauren Kleine and Clara Mason (available via AAEPAnywhere.com - login required)
- The Veterinarian's Role in Assessing Risk and Reporting Suspected Equine Neglect, Abuse and Mistreatment (PowerPoint presentation)
- A Practical Guide for Law Enforcement: Equine Abuse, Neglect and Mistreatment (PowerPoint presentation)
- Equine Abuse, Neglect & Mistreatment FAQs
- Examination Form - Equine Investigation
- Forensics Supply List - Equine Investigation
- Compilation of All Equine Investigative Forms - Includes Steps for Evidence Collection and Triage
Proceedings Papers:
- How to Prosecute Cases of Equine Abuse - Clara Mason, DVM
- The Equine Veterinarian's Role in Potential Cases of Animal Abuse - Rachel Touroo, DVM and Nicole Eller, DVM
- What the Prosecutor Needs from Veterinarians to Support Legal Consequences - Reese Frederickson, BS, MBA, JD
- When Rescues Fail: Legal Considerations for Veterinary Involvement - Julia H. Wilson, DVM, DACVIM
- Working with Rescues to Establish Best Practices and Safety Nets for Early Problem Solving - Jennifer Williams, PhD
- Equine Rescue & Rehabilitation: How to Deal with Starved, Unwanted and Abandoned Horses - Lisa Kivett, DVM, DACVIM
Additional resources:
- Abuse Reporting Requirements by State
- AVMA Practical Guidance for the Effective Response by Veterinarians to Suspected Animal Cruelty, Abuse & Neglect
- Equine Body Condition Scoring Chart
- Henneke Equine Body Scoring Chart
- How Do I Report Suspected Abuse? The National Link Coalition State-by-State Agency Listings
- Practice Life Podcast episode: The Veterinarian's Role in Equine Abuse & Neglect Cases (Dec. 2018)
- Vet Direct Safety Net
AAEP Equine Assistance Programs
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Unwanted Horse Veterinary Relief Campaign - Download the application here.
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United Horse Coalition - An initiative supported by the equine industry and managed by the American Horse Council
Educational Resources
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Care Guidelines for Equine Rescue and Retirement Facilities - Updated 2019
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Recent Advances in Donkey Medicine and Welfare - Online Collection