Equine Welfare

Horse Slaughter and Humane Endpoints

Concerns about humane slaughter methods and transport conditions make horse slaughter one of the most contentious welfare issues in equine care.

Key Facts

Approximately 700,000 horses are slaughtered globally each year for human or pet food consumption
The United States banned horse slaughter domestically in 2007 but allows export for slaughter abroad
Captive bolt stunning is the primary method but requires precise application to be effective
Long-distance transport to slaughter facilities is associated with high rates of injury and death
Feral horse populations in the US are managed through controversial roundups and holding facilities

Welfare Considerations

The welfare harms of horse slaughter extend beyond the kill floor: inadequate transport conditions, slaughter facilities with poor stunning accuracy, and feedlot holding create cumulative suffering. Humane alternatives require investment in end-of-life veterinary euthanasia infrastructure and regulation of export conditions.

What You Can Do

Support permanent US federal legislation banning live horse export for slaughter
Advocate for end-of-life equine veterinary care funding to reduce demand for slaughter
Contact your representatives about humane wild horse management alternatives to roundups