WASHINGTON, July 3, 2025–The American Horse Council (AHC) has completed two important pilot projects addressing critical issues within the horse industry. The first explored the accessibility and cost of euthanasia and disposal services for horses. The second assessed welfare initiatives within breed and discipline associations.

Full reports are available to the public on the United Horse Coalition website, a program of the AHC Foundation.

Project 1: Accessibility and cost of euthanasia and disposal services

The first project evaluated the availability and average cost of euthanasia and disposal services for horses across the country. This topic has been frequently questioned as a key cause of horses becoming at risk for neglect and poor welfare.

Owners of severely injured horses or aged horses in poor health who cannot afford or access these services have limited options for end-of-life care. Typically these horses are at high risk of neglect or experiencing stress at public auctions.

The findings revealed that affordable disposal options are available in every state. This makes euthanasia and disposal services accessible for horse owners in need if financial resources are available. With appropriate funding from both the horse industry and grant makers, welfare initiatives could be developed to help fund euthanasia and disposal for owners experiencing financial hardship.

The next step is to determine factors playing into area costs and how to better support accessibility to local services.

Project 2: Welfare initiatives within breed and discipline associations

The second project assessed welfare initiatives implemented by various breed and discipline associations within the industry. The report found that many associations already offer educational programs and funding options to support their members in maintaining good horse welfare. However, the study also concluded that these associations could further enhance their efforts.

Ways to do this might include establishing welfare committees to review rules and address the needs of their members and horses. Another idea: to track the progress of welfare initiatives within their respective areas.

“We are pleased with the results of these two pilot projects, as they offer valuable insights into how the horse industry can address some of its most pressing welfare challenges,” said Julie Broadway, president of the American Horse Council. “Our hope is that these findings will encourage further collaboration across the industry, fostering both education and accessible resources for those in need.”

The full reports from both pilot projects, as well as the nationwide list of disposal companies, are now available at the United Horse Coalition website. You may also view the links below:

Access the Equine Industry Welfare Impact Report

Access the Equine Industry Euthanasia and Disposal Costs Report

For an excel spreadsheet of all disposal options by state, click *here.

*Please note that this document may not be altered or copied without the express permission of the American Horse Council.

About the American Horse Council

As the national association representing all segments of the horse industry in Washington, D.C., the American Horse Council works daily to represent equine interests and opportunities. To learn more, email [email protected] or call (202) 296-4031.

To read about the AHC’s fall 2025 lineup of podcasts and webinars, click here.