If you’ve been following the political scene over the last few years, you have probably heard of lobbyists and special interest groups using their voice to be sure that our government is aware of their concerns and needs. But who is speaking up for the horse industry? The American Horse Council!
Founded in 1969, the American Horse Council (AHC) was organized by a group of horsemen concerned about federal legislation affecting their industry. They recognized the need for national and coordinated industry action in Washington, DC. Since its inception, the AHC has been promoting and protecting the equine industry by representing its interests in Congress and in federal regulatory agencies on national issues that affect to each and every person involved in the horse industry.
The AHC promotes and protects all horse breeds, disciplines and interests by communicating with Congress, federal agencies, the media and the industry itself each and every day. Its seven committees – the Government Affairs Advisory Council, Racing Committee, Showing Committee, Health and Regulatory Committee, Animal Welfare Committee, Recreation Committee and the State Horse Council Advisory Committee – provide the expertise and advice on the issues we face.
In addition, the AHC has joined with the Unwanted Horse Coalition, a broad alliance of equine organizations is to reduce the number of unwanted horses and to improve their welfare through education and the efforts of organizations committed to the health, safety, and responsible care and disposition of these horses. Their focus is to educate owners who are unaware of, or do not give enough thought to, the available options, services and assistance available in the industry to help them ensure that their horse has caring and humane support throughout its life.
Interested in getting involved with the AHC? Anyone can become a member. Whether you’re are a horse owner, breeder, trainer, breeder or provide professional services for a client with horses, there’s a membership category for you. For more information, visit www.americancouncil.org.
