Recently the Kentucky Horse Council (KHC) joined the ranks of the American Association of Equine Practitioners, American Quarter Horse Association, Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, US Equestrian Federation, and other state and national equestrian organizations by officially endorsing the American Horse Council (AHC) Welfare Code of Practice.

According to the American Horse Council, the Welfare Code of Practice 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.

"We are committed to developing and supporting programs to ensure the health and welfare of Kentucky horses," stated KHC Board President, Madelyn Millard. "Formalizing our endorsement of the AHC Welfare Code of Practice was a natural step for the Kentucky Horse Council."

Kentucky Horse Council programs to support the health and welfare of Kentucky horses include: Equine Safety Net which provides feed for horses when their owners suffer a job loss or injury that prevents work, low income Geld Vouchers, Livestock Investigation Training to teach animal control and peace officers how to handle and investigate livestock cases, funds to support the feeding and care of Kentucky horses legally confiscated as part of a neglect case, and VITALS which seeks to equip every horse barn with a stethoscope and thermometer and the skills to use both in assessing equine vital signs