In response to recent reports on ABC World News and Nightline, the Walking Horse Owners Association (WHOA) reaffirms its opposition to any violation of the Horse Protection Act (HPA) or any other mistreatment of any horse. WHOA continues to support and promote the use of humane training principles in all disciplines of the Tennessee Walking Horse, and strongly supports fair and equal enforcement of the HPA to ensure only sound horses that are in compliance with government regulations are permitted to be shown, exhibited, or sold.

WHOA has been in existence since 1976, representing the interests of all Walking Horse Owners throughout the country and takes a strong stance against horse abuse of any kind.  The owners are the ultimate custodians of the horse, and as the owners group, we condemn any inhumane training practice.  We have made that very clear and will continue to reinforce that with our owners, trainers, and all other industry stakeholders.   WHOA is committed to cooperating with other industry groups to continue to promote professionalism, education and enforcement throughout the industry to this end.