Horses have been central to the ASPCA’s work since our founding in 1866. The ASPCA works to protect and aid horses through legislation, rescue, enforcement of New York City’s carriage horse and anti-cruelty laws, and grants distributed through our Equine Fund.
More about These Issues
You can help us stand up for horses by learning about the issues affecting equines today and getting involved.
Video: Inhumane Wild Horse Roundup »
Inside an Equine Cruelty Rescue »
Prevent the Return of U.S. Horse Slaughter »
Equine Issues
Horse Slaughter
The ASPCA has worked for years to protect American horses from terrifying, inhumane deaths at slaughterhouses.
Wild Horse Roundups
Thanks to government roundups, wild horses have dwindled from two million 100 years ago to 30,000-40,000 on the range, with a similar number in long-term government holding facilities.
Carriage Horses
The ASPCA believes that carriage horses were never meant to live and work in today's urban setting.
Soring
Soring is an illegal training method in which pain-causing chemicals or objects are applied to horses' limbs or hoof pads to achieve the high-stepping gait favored in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry.
The ASPCA’s Work for Equines
Legislative Initiatives for Horses
Both the ASPCA’s federal and state legislative teams work to protect our nation’s horses by lobbying for stronger laws.
Grants for Equines
The ASPCA Equine Fund granted more than $1.5 million to equine rescue groups—in 2011 alone.
On the Ground for Horses
The ASPCA has conducted multiple equine field operations, including our work to rescue more than 100 equines from a horse trader in Arkansas.
What You Can Do
Top Ways to Help Equines
Check out the top 10 things you can do to become a hero for equines.
Join the Advocacy Brigade
You'll receive alerts that make it easy to fight for laws that protect equines.
Donate to the Equine Fund
This member-supported fund allows us to provide help to equines where and when they need us.
Share Your Story
Did you rescue a horse? Share your experience and get inspired by others’ stories.