Evolution of the proposed federal slaughter horse transport regulations

ABSTRACT Horsemeat consumption became popular in many European countries after World War II, and horsemeat continues today to be a delicacy product. The United States is a major source country for these markets. Although the number of horses slaughtered in the United States has been decreasing since the 1980s, the animal protection organizations and the public have focused their attention on the transport conditions of these horses to slaughter and have demanded federal regulations. The issues included the use of double-deck trailers, stocking density, transit durations, water and feed deprivation, and the shipping of horses that are unfit to travel. The USDA, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in 1997 began awarding special research contracts aimed at generating scientific data to support science- and performance-based regulations. Scientists, animal protection organizations, the veterinary community, slaughter facility managers, an auction representative, and the USDA met in 1998 to recommend possible regulations for the transport of horses to slaughter based on the scientific findings. This approach, with both limitations and advantages, may serve as a model for other agricultural issues, especially those lacking in available scientific information.

Implications

The process used in developing slaughter horse transport regulations may be a model for other future welfare issues and provides a more substantial platform for regulations both domestically and globally, because the decisions were largely based on science. The media have, and will have, a strong influence in forming the public's perception and garnering the attention of legislators. Animal protection organizations will continue to link their ability to lobby either state or federal policy makers into addressing the issues. Because there is a dearth of scientific studies examining many of the animal agricultural issues, government agencies may provide resources in the future for researchers to gather objective data in developing and proposing regulations. As animal scientists, many of us will have the opportunity to become involved in this type of rewarding research and education.

Key Words: Horses, Regulations, Transport, Welfare

© 2001, by the American Society of Animal Science. All rights reserved.

J. Anim. Sci. 2001. 79:E12-E15