American Horse Council survey

[henthorn]

I have belonged to the American Horse Council for over ten years. Today I received an e-mail requesting me as a random member to fill out a survey, which I did with as much accuracy as possible. It is to try to get accurate information from all types of horsemen on their expenses and earnings, broken down into various categories, to show the economic impact of horse operations to the country. Categories of income listed include purses, sales, showing prizes, rental income, etc. Expenses include facilities management, travel, board/training, real estate, stud fees, on and on. They also ask about asset purchases and the estimated current market values for them.

For those who are unfamiliar, the AHC's benefits for horsemen of all kinds is to keep us informed with regard to tax information, legislative changes, and horse-related court cases. It also is the major lobbying group for all horse-related issues in Washington, D.C., and keeps abreast on topics of interest to horse owners and breeders, that might even indirectly affect them. This might include tax laws, capital gains, asset allocations, hiring and employment laws and little-known rules, etc.

I encourage all horsemen who are able, to invest the $200 annual membership fee that supports this valuable organization.

[rocking e]

got mine this morning already filled it out

[Stellaspeed]

Why don't you also suggest to them that they get on board with the thoroughbred Industry and quit appeasing the Quarter Horse faction in regards to the slaughter issue. They are behind the times and are more representative of corporate interests than the average horseman/woman.
'for your next course, try a Quarter Horse"

[hurleynyc]

If I recall correctly, the American Horse Council did not poll its members before it issued its "white paper" in support of horse slaughter some years ago. I also recall that it received large grants to monitor the transportation of horses to slaughter. My impression is that it is largely controlled by the bigger players in the horse industry and those who are close to its representatives. Until the AHC publishes a full list of its members, a detailed account of its funding, and until it regularly polls ALL of its members on important isues and publishes detailed accounts of exactly what it's lobbying for, it will not receive my $. I believe its position on horse slaughter is now officially neutral, but in my books that ain't enough.