Fight Equine Cruelty

If you've spent any time in the horse show world, then you've probably heard about the ASPCA, through the equitation class called the ASPCA Maclay Medal.  However, there is much more to this organization than its sponsorship of a national equitation championship.  The ASPCA was founded back in the mid 1800's in New York City to protect animals, mainly horses, from abuse and neglect.  Since then, the organization has grown, aiming to end abuse of all animals.  Over the years, the ASPCA has shown considerable effort in protecting the welfare of horses across the country.  For example, in 1971, the Wild and Free Roaming Horse and Burro Act was passed by Congress, with the help of the ASPCA, to protect America's wild horses on public lands.  In 2000, the ASPCA installed a large fountain in the middle of Central Park, near 5th avenue, to provide cool, drinking water for the working carriage horses on the streets of NYC.  Even more recently, you may have noticed sponsorships of ASPCA at various equestrian events and horse shows, as the organization is continuing to promote responsible and humane care of all horses.
We must spread the word about equine abuse and support organizations such as the ASPCA, as well as local ones, including the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society to help all of our equine friends.  On a local level, although the equine division within the Humane Society is not as significant yet as the dogs/cats area, we can still help out in many ways.  For the horses neglected and abused in the Pittsburgh area, we can do our part by keeping an eye out for any equine cruelty, immediately reporting any neglect or abuse we see, and supporting the equine division of the Humane Society.  Our friend,  Gretchen Fieser , has exerted an incredible amount of time and effort not only for the horses in need in our area but for all other animals as well.  To help out at the Humane Society, go to http://www.wpahumane.com/ . And, to support a nationwide program, visit http://www.aspca.org/ .aspca.org