From: Tim Case [SMTP:tcase@aqha.org]
 Sent: Friday, December 12, 2003 10:25 AM
 To: patricia.fitzgerald@twc.state.tx.us
 Cc: Ward Stutz
 Subject: Response to your inquiry

 The letter that Ms. Hay referred to was sent to the state affiliate boards of directors to encourage them to have concerned members contact us if they would like information.

 AQHA cares passionates [sic] about horses, horse owners, and the horse industry.   Because of this concern, we have drafted position statements related to unwanted horses which I have attached to this message.  I am also attaching
 a copy of the discussion paper that was sent to the affiliate boards.

  American Quarter Horse Association does not favor slaughter as a means of dealing with unwanted horses.  What AQHA favors is horse owners having all legal choices at their disposal for the difficult end-of-life decision.  Also, AQHA recognizes that adoption and retirement facilities are options for owners, and would endorse federal regulations and standards that would govern the operations of these facilities.

 That said, AQHA does have serious concerns about any federally imposed ban on processing facilities.  Our chief concern is the removal of a viable humane euthanasia option.  Again, horse owners should have every option available when making the decision to relinquish ownership of their animal so long as their horse is treated humanely, and with dignity and respect.

 If you would like any more information, or have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.

 Tim Case
 American Quarter Horse Association
 Manager of Public Policy

 806-376-4888 Ext. 418 (Office)
 806-349-6409 (Fax)
 tcase@aqha.org  AQHA Positions on Horses  Discussion Paper Regarding Processing of Horses