How the U.S. government sends American wild horses to slaughter
A New York Times report brings fresh mainstream attention to the federal loophole allowing American wild horses to be exported for slaughter.
While killing wild horses on U.S. soil is illegal, federal sales programs allow commercial buyers to purchase them at bargain prices. Once sold, legal protections end, allowing buyers to export the horses across U.S. borders.
U.S. wild horse slaughter trade explained
An estimated 73,000 wild horses live on U.S. public lands, where federal law prohibits their hunting and commercial slaughter. To manage population levels, the federal government puts roughly 9,500 wild horses up for adoption each year. Only half find homes.
Unadopted horses enter federal holding facilities, a network of pens and pastures currently housing approximately 58,000 wild horses.
To reduce holding capacity and costs, federal sales initiatives allow unadopted horses to be sold at discounted rates.
How U.S. horse meat enters international food markets
Commercial horse slaughterhouses in the United States stopped operating in 2007 after Congress defunded inspection programs. Trade then shifted to Canada and Mexico to supply international meat markets.
This trade carries significant food safety risks. American horses kept for work, sport, or companionship routinely receive veterinary medications prohibited in food production. A peer-reviewed study confirms that former American racehorses slaughtered in Canada contained these prohibited substances.
Due to drug safety concerns, the European Union suspended horsemeat imports from Mexico in 2014. Yet meat from American horses slaughtered in Canada still enters European markets, primarily in France, Belgium, Italy, and Germany.
Awareness is just the beginning
Learning about what farmed animals face can change the way we see them. But change takes more than awareness—it takes people like you willing to keep showing up.
This September, for Farmed Animal Awareness Month, become a monthly donor with Animal Equality and turn your concern for farmed animals into action all year long.
What is being done to stop the slaughter of American horses?
For over a decade, Animal Equality has investigated horse slaughter systems across Spain, Italy, Mexico, and the United States. Our investigators have documented American horses bearing yellow USDA identification stickers inside foreign slaughterhouses, exposing this cross-border trade.
Now, Congress has a chance to help stop it.
In May 2026, a House committee approved an amendment that would prohibit transporting horses when they are believed to be headed for slaughter. The amendment passed 34–30 and must still survive the rest of the legislative process.
With you, Animal Equality will keep pushing lawmakers to protect horses from slaughter.
Defend HORSES
Considered companions by many, horses are sensitive and intelligent animals who deserve protection.
Protect these beautiful animals by choosing plant‑based foods.