Washington, D.C. – [July 3, 2025] – The American Horse Council (AHC) has completed two important pilot projects aimed at addressing critical issues within the horse industry: the accessibility and cost of euthanasia and disposal services for horses, and the assessment of welfare initiatives within breed and discipline associations.

Full reports are now available to the public on the United Horse Coalition website, a program of the American Horse Council Foundation.

Project 1: Accessibility and Cost of Euthanasia and Disposal Services

The first project focused on evaluating the availability and average cost of euthanasia and disposal services for horses across the United States. This topic has been frequently questioned as a key cause of horses becoming at-risk of neglect and poor welfare. Owners of horses with severe injury or aged horses in poor health that cannot afford or access these services have limited options for end of life care. Typically these horses are at high risk of neglect or experiencing stress at public auctions.

The findings revealed that affordable disposal options are available in every state, making euthanasia and disposal services accessible for horse owners in need if financial resources are available. With appropriate funding from both the horse industry and grant makers, welfare initiatives could be developed to help fund euthanasia and disposal for owners experiencing financial hardship.

The next step is to determine what factors play into area costs and how to better support accessibility to local services.

Project 2: Welfare Initiatives within Breed and Discipline Associations

The second project assessed the welfare initiatives implemented by various breed and discipline associations within the horse industry. The report found that many associations already offer educational programs and funding options to support their members in maintaining good horse welfare. However, the study also concluded that these associations could further enhance their efforts by establishing welfare committees to review their organizations’ rules, address the needs of their members and horses, and track the progress of welfare initiatives within their respective areas.

“We are pleased with the results of these two pilot projects, as they offer valuable insights into how the horse industry can address some of its most pressing welfare challenges,” said Julie Broadway, President of the American Horse Council. “Our hope is that these findings will encourage further collaboration across the industry, fostering both education and accessible resources for those in need.”

The full reports from both pilot projects, as well as the nationwide list of disposal companies, are now available for download at the United Horse Coalition website (www.unitedhorsecoalition.org). Or view the links below.

For an excel spreadsheet of all disposal options by state, click here:  https://unitedhorsecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/UHC-Equine-Disposal-Options-Public.xlsx 

*Please note this document may not be altered, or copied without the express permission of the American Horse Council.

About the American Horse Council

As the national association representing all segments of the horse industry in Washington, D.C., the American Horse Council works daily to represent equine interests and opportunities.

Media Contact:
American Horse Council
Email: info@horsecouncil.org
Phone: (202) 296-4031
Website: www.horsecouncil.org