Humane Care for Equines Act

Our equine health section is responsible for enforcing the Humane Care for Equines Act, the Equine Act of 1969, and excerpts of the Animal Protection
Act.  Enforcement of these laws is achieved through the inspection of equine sales, abuse complaints, stables and events.  We also manage the Equine Infectious Anemia Control Program. 

The Animal Protection Act requires all stables that charge a fee for boarding, holding, training, breeding, riding, pulling vehicles, or similar purposes to be licensed by the Georgia Department of Agriculture.  All equine at these facilities must be provided with adequate food, water, and shelter.  Stable owners must maintain records of current, negative Equine Infectious Anemia tests, purchases and sales.

The equine industry is also monitored for Equine Infectious Anemia through the enforcement of the Equine Act of 1969.  Regulations require a negative test within the last 12 months on all equine sold, traded, given away, or moved for change of ownership.  All equine assembled for exhibitions, rodeos, trail rides, or other activities must also have a current, negative Equine Infectious Anemia test.  Any equine testing positive for Equine Infectious Anemia must be quarantined at least 200 yards from all other equine, euthanized and buried, or shipped to slaughter.

The need for protecting the welfare of equine prompted the passing of the Humane Care for Equines Act in 1992, which requires that all equine are provided with adequate food and water, and are treated and cared for in a humane manner.  The Act provides for inspections, impoundments, care, and disposition.  Authority is granted for injunctions, restraining orders, and monetary penalties as required to achieve enforcement.

The Department currently employs 11 Equine Inspectors and one Equine Field Supervisor who are responsible for enforcing these laws throughout the state.  Their duties include but are not limited to:

• Inspecting licensed and unlicensed stables
  
• Investigating complaints of inhumane care and treatment
  
• Inspecting equine sales
  
• Inspecting horse shows, rodeos, parades, and other events
  
• Caring for impounded equine and managing 2 impound facilities 
  
• Enforcing disease eradication laws
  
• Investigating reports of stolen equine
  
• Enforcing dead animal disposal laws
  
• Speaking to various organizations on equine issues
  
• Responding to equine involved in disasters