The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) believes HR 857–The American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act–could potentially harm more horses than it saves. An analysis by the AVMA reveals that HR 857, introduced by New York State Representative John Sweeney, fails to address the welfare of affected horses, fails to ensure levels of funding required to properly care for horses when humane slaughter is removed as an option, fails to recognize professional judgment in the appropriate application of methods of euthanasia for horses, and fails to consider potential environmental concerns associated with disposal of these horses.

“The welfare of animals, and in this case horses, is the primary concern of veterinarians,” said Jack O. Walther, DVM, AVMA President. “The proposed legislation, as written, could actually result in less humane treatment of these horses