SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. (AP/WMOT) — The Humane Society of the United States is launching a hotline and reward for people to call in tips about abuse of Tennessee walking horses ahead of the breed's national show in Shelbyville next week.
The Horse Protection Act prevents a form of abuse called soring, a practice of using chemicals and chains to train horses to perform high-stepping gaits for shows and competitions.
Keith Dane, Director of Equine Protection, says the Society’s phone number and $10,000 reward are posted on a billboard near the site of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration.
“We actually paid a $10,000 reward earlier this year, for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Barney Davis who is a Tennessee horse trainer. We’ve received numerous tips on the line in the past and since we’ve renewed it just last week we’ve gotten two or three tips and we’re looking forward to receiving more.”
Dane says he believes only a small minority of trainers abuse their animals, and that most walking horse enthusiasts treat their animals well.
