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By United Horse Coalition This article is part 2 of a series. Click the link below to read part 1. When reporting concerns about a horse’s welfare, there are several key authorities you can reach out to, depending on the situation: ACO (Animal Control Officer) Your local ACO is often the first point of contact for animal welfare cases. They have the authority to investigate complaints, assess the condition of the horse, and take action if necessary, including issuing warnings or seizing animals in severe cases. When to call: An ACO is typically responsible for animal welfare and the enforcement of animal cruelty laws. If you suspect that a horse is being neglected, abused, or is in distress due to improper care, you should contact your local ACO. Your ACO is also a great resource – perhaps the horse owner just needs some help, guidance, or assistance; the ACO would

By the United Horse Coalition Horses are majestic and intelligent animals that depend on humans for proper care and protection. Most horse owners provide excellent care, but sometimes, due to neglect, lack of knowledge, or circumstances beyond their control, horses may suffer. On the other hand, some horse behaviors or management practices can look alarming to someone unfamiliar with equine needs but are perfectly normal. If you see a horse in poor condition or questionable circumstances, you may wonder whether to contact animal control or another authority. This guide will help you understand what equine neglect looks like, what behaviors may not indicate a problem, and how to make informed decisions when advocating for a horse’s welfare. It’s important to distinguish between true signs of neglect or abuse and situations that may simply look unusual to non-horse owners. When You Should Call Animal Control or Report a Concern If you