Copyright WHR 2007
Editor’s Note: The WHTA Board of Directors approved this new Code of Ethics at their board meeting, Tuesday, May 22, 2007
PREAMBLE
The Walking Horse Trainers Association is committed to promoting and protecting the welfare of the Tennessee Walking Horse in preserving the Walking Horse industry for future generations. To do so, the Association has developed and is committed to the following Code of Ethics.
CODE OF ETHICS
Individuals licensed by the Walking Horse Trainers Association shall accept and abide by the following ethical rules of conduct. Any individual who is found to be in violation of one, some or all of the ethical rules shall be disciplined accordingly by the Board of Directors of the Walking Horse Trainers Association, and is subject to loss of license.
Licensed individuals of the Walking Horse Trainers Association shall:
1. Treat all horses in their care humanely and with dignity and respect. Trainers shall use proper care in training, handling and showing them and shall not utilize techniques known to inflict pain for the purpose of performance enhancement. Trainers found to have used pressure shoeing shall lose their training license and be banned from the Walking Horse Trainers Association for life.
2. Accurately represent any data or information about a horse, which affects the sale of said horse and conduct all business transactions in a straightforward and honest manner. If a buyer requests information regarding a horse’s fitness and health, trainers will refer such questions to a qualified veterinarian.
3. Support and promote the overall objectives of the Walking Horse Trainers Association, which are:
a. To improve the public image and reputation of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breed.
b. Promote the ownership and showing of the Tennessee Walking Horse.
c. Develop improved training techniques of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breed focused on humane handing that compliments the natural abilities of the breed.
d. Educate the public about the uniqueness and value of the Tennessee Walking Horse
e. Work cooperative, collaboratively and professionally with USDA and DQP’s to ensure compliance with the Horses Protection Act.