The American Horse Council (AHC) has announced that PATH International, the American Warmblood Registry, the North American Short Pony Registry, the National Walking Horse Association, the Kansas Horse Council, the Certified Horsemanship Association, and HorseSafety.com have all endorsed the AHC 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 support the code of practice,” 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.

The seven new groups join 28 other national groups that have already endorsed the welfare 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, American Riding Instructors Association, Appaloosa Horse Club, Arabian Horse Association, Florida Thoroughbred Breeder’s and Owner’s Association, Harness Horsemen International, International Walking Horse Association, 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, Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders & Exhibitors Association, Texas Quarter Horse Association, Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, U.S. Dressage Federation, U.S. Equestrian Drill Team, U.S. Equestrian Federation, and U.S. Trotting Association