The Walking Horse Owners' Association on August 7, 2006 suspended an exhibitor indefinitely following an incident at the International Grand Championship Pleasure and Colt Show.  Terry Vaught of Watertown, Tennessee faces animal cruelty charges after USDA and NHSC personnel discovered a horse he owned was "on blocks" in a stall.  Since the horse show is on the property of Middle Tennessee State University, the MTSU police department questioned Mr. Vaught and are investigating the incident.

"We don't know what will happen to Mr. Vaught as far as the police are concerned, but we have gone ahead and suspended his membership and amateur card pending the outcome of their investigation," says Tommy Hall, executive director of WHOA and show manager of the International.  Without an amateur card, Mr. Vaught will not be able to show horses at any show affiliated with the NHSC.  "For the horse's sake, we are glad the incident was discovered and Mr. Vaught is being held accountable."

David Pruett, chairman of the NHSC and president of WHOA, pointed out that incidents like this are the reason the NHSC wants to have a steward and veterinarian walking the show grounds at horse shows.  Stewards have been present at several shows this year and will be at the Celebration later this month.  "This is definitely a program we are looking to expand," says Pruett.