Groups formalize mission statement, next steps

The equine industry’s work on behalf of unwanted horses continued to gain momentum this week as representatives from twenty organizations met to advance the efforts that began at the nation’s first Unwanted Horse Summit in Washington, D.C., in April.  Gathering Sept. 21 at the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) headquarters in Schaumburg, Ill., the group focused on solidifying its mission and building a long-term organizational structure.

The important roles of education and owner responsibility in reducing the unwanted horse population were a key theme of the day’s discussions and are reflected in the group’s mission statement:

“To reduce the number of unwanted horses and improve their welfare through education and the efforts of organizations committed to the health, safety and responsible care of the horse