What are veterinarians and the AVMA doing to help the unwanted horses?
A large number of veterinarians, many of whom are members of the AVMA, already donate or provide discounts for time, services, and medications to reputable horse rescue facilities. Others rescue and provide homes and care for horses at their farms and veterinary practices. However, just as any person’s ability to contribute their time and money are limited by what they can afford, veterinarians must also be able to earn money to keep their practices open and support their families. Graduating veterinarians carry an average of more than $106,000 in student loans; they simply cannot afford to donate all of the services, time, and medications required to support the unwanted horse population. The AVMA’s Governmental Relations Division (GRD) has been actively pursuing legislation that will deal with the issue of the unwanted horse more effectively than a slaughter ban. Proposed solutions include setting standards for equine rescue and retirement facilities; researching environmentally soun
