NHSC reports fewer violations in 2008

Monday, March 2, 2009

Walking Horse Advocates recently announced the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) is moving forward with its commitment to address and correct the problems that have plagued horse training and exhibitions in the past, according to a press release from the organization.

With every horse being inspected every time it shows, year-end statistics were released showing a decrease in violation numbers from the previous two years while showing an increase in both shows and inspections at Tennessee walking horse sanctioned events.

At the end of 2008, 50,866 horses at 265 shows had been inspected with 481 violations charged. Through the same period in 2007, 50,620 horses at 250 shows accumulated 506 violations.

NHSC also hired a new executive vice president to replace Lonnie Messick, who retired in 2008 after 30 years of service with the Walking Horse industry. Taking his place will be Andy Messick, an attorney from Murfreesboro.

"It is both an honor and a privilege to take over as head of the NHSC. I have big shoes to fill, but I'm confident my time with NHSC will translate to improved measures to ensure the safety of our horses," said Messick.

The NHSC has future plans in place for additional steps toward its goal of ensuring the welfare of their horses that will likely unfold throughout the year.

Comprised of members from several leading industry groups, Walking Horse Advocates is committed to the protection and humane treatment of the Tennessee walking horse.

By putting the well-being of horses first, the group is dedicated to the promotion of safe practices in the training and exhibition of walking horses through the consistent enforcement of uniform standards and regulations, according to the press release.

Formed in 2008, Walking Horse Advocates seeks to enhance the understanding and appreciation of the innate grace and beauty of the Tennessee Walker, often recognized as "the world's greatest show, trail and pleasure horse."

For more information, visit www.walkinghorseadvocates.com.

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I am not involved in the horse business in this county (although I have had my fair dealings with some of the less desirable people who are involved in it), but seems to me that if there were more than 50,000 inspections and less than 500 violations, that is a pretty good ratio. These animals, for the most part, are not mistreated. If anything, some of these animals live better thans some humans.

Walking horses are a naturally stunning breed of animal...without harsh training practices. Sounds like some owners and trainers have finally come to realize that.

-- Posted by jtjustice30 on Mon, Mar 2, 2009, at 12:00 PM

Why have they canceled the Trainer's show?

-- Posted by blue jay on Wed, Mar 4, 2009, at 7:35 AM