The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association announced that the Horse Protection Commission has become the first Horse Industry Organization in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry to become sanctioned in the TWHBEA Sanctioning Plan. The purpose of the Sanctioning Plan is to completely eliminate the practice of soring through unification of all HIOs in the adoption of uniform standards; one rulebook, one inspection procedure and one judging criteria with one list of trained and accountable judges. Through the Sanctioning Plan, TWHBEA will ensure the welfare of the horse and provide a stable environment for the industry to prosper and grow.

            The HPC was created by equine veterinarians and certified by the USDA in 1997 for the purpose of enforcing the federal law, the Horse Protection Act. With the professional help and guidance of equine veterinarians, the HPC has set a high standard with their DQP inspection program. With competent inspectors, uniform inspections, an inspection program with integrity and without politics, the HPC is a valuable ally to the horse industry and the horse itself.

            “I am excited about the opportunity to be a part of TWHBEA’s bold new program that is aimed at continuing and enhancing the efforts of enforcement,” said Donna Benefield, HPC Administrative Director. 

            “The inclusion of the HPC is a valuable asset to the TWHBEA Sanctioning Plan and the Tennessee Walking Horse industry as a whole. We look forward to the inclusion of the balance of the HIOs,” said Jerrold Pedigo, TWHBEA President.