Position on the Use of Horses in Urban Environments

The AAEP supports the use of horses and other equids in urban environments, such as mounted patrols, tourist carriages and taxi/limousine services, in accordance with federal, state and local animal protection laws and in a way that prioritizes their welfare. Equids in urban settings can adapt to their surroundings. Urban environments can present potential health and welfare hazards, including, but not limited to, extremes of air pollution, excessive heat or cold, and icy or otherwise slippery surfaces. Therefore, horses and other equids engaged in these activities should have precautions taken for their safety and well-being.

Guidelines for the care of individual horses and other equids may vary by location. All working equids should have access to fresh water and should be staged in areas which provide shelter from adverse weather conditions. The AAEP encourages research into the effects of weather conditions on working equids in urban environments. Provisions concerning work hours, workloads and living conditions, healthcare, footcare, nutrition, and standards of driver training should be prepared for each jurisdiction with the assistance of an equine veterinarian familiar with local conditions. The appropriate licensing standards with recommended minimum guidelines should be established and adhered to by local authorities, and funding should be provided for re-inspection and renewal to confirm guidelines are being followed.

To ensure the health and welfare of horses and other equids in urban environments, they should be examined at least annually by an equine veterinarian familiar with local conditions. Special consideration should be given to assessing body condition, freedom from lameness and disease, and appropriateness of living conditions and transport.

The equine veterinarian is the most qualified individual to manage the health care needs of the horse or equid. The owners and caregivers of horses and other equids working in urban settings should have a valid Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) with a veterinary practice with equine expertise that can respond appropriately to all emergencies, including those in which euthanasia is required. In the absence of a veterinarian in such a situation, the AAEP acknowledges that it may be necessary for licensed, qualified animal control or trained law enforcement personnel to perform euthanasia using the established guidelines of the American Veterinary Medical Association. A veterinarian should be consulted, if possible, prior to euthanasia by trained personnel. Educational programs should be developed for equine veterinarians to train law enforcement and animal control officers in horse handling, emergency assessment, and euthanasia. 

Revised by AAEP board of directors in 2025.