USA: Protect Show Horses from Torture

U.S. S. 4004—Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act
ASPCA Position: Support
Sponsor: Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) 

Majestic Tennessee Walking Horses are cherished for their natural, unique four-step gait and their gentle dispositions. The Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act will protect these treasured horses from unscrupulous trainers and abuse.

This bill would:

  • Require horse show organizers to use only USDA-licensed inspectors.
  • Prohibit the use of action devices that intensify the pain caused by soring and increase the penalties for violations.
  • Strengthen penalties to deter violators.  
Learn More

Did you know there are some trainers who compete in Tennessee Walking Horse competitions that still subject their horses to “soring?” This involves intentionally inflicting intense pain on a horse’s legs and hooves to elicit an exaggerated gait. Although soring has been illegal since 1970, weak enforcement and regulations have allowed this cruel practice to persist. The PAST Act will address these gaps by amending the Horse Protection Act to improve protections for horses.

What You Can Do

Please use the form below to email your senators and ask them to support and pass the PAST Act!