NHSC: Fewer violations found at shows

NASHVILLE -- As a sign of ongoing progress, the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) reports a decrease in the number of violations at sanctioned Tennessee walking horse shows through the third quarter of 2008. At the end of September, 44,335 horses at 231 shows had been inspected with 433 violations charged. Through the same period in 2007, 43,039 horses at 218 shows accumulated 458 violations.

"It is very encouraging to see the number of show violations continuing to fall, especially considering the increased number of evaluations," said Mark Farrar, NHSC chairman. "Our organization, along with other prominent industry groups, is committed to addressing and correcting the problems that have plagued horse training and exhibitions in the past. There is still much work to be done and we will continue to strengthen our efforts to eliminate abuses in order to help restore confidence in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry."

In September, NHSC established a special task force to review its current infrastructure and to discuss proposals issued by the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Tennessee Walking Horse Task Force in its review of current industry procedures and practices. This AAEP review was issued as a white paper, "Putting The Horse First: Veterinary Recommendations for Ending the Soring of Tennessee Walking Horses," offering recommendations regarding the governance structure, uniform regulations and judging standards of the Tennessee walking horse industry.

An announcement will be issued in the coming weeks describing changes the NHSC will be implementing for the 2009 show season in consideration of the task force's evaluation.