Horse Protection Act

The Horse Protection Act, enacted in 1970, is a U.S. law designed to prevent cruelty to horses involved in certain traditional shows, especially pain-inducing practices like soring. Soring is deliberately injuring a horse's legs or hooves to make them lift their front legs higher, a gait favored in some competitions. The Act prohibits the sedation or injury of horses to enhance their performance and authorizes inspections and penalties for violations. Its goal is to promote humane treatment of horses and reduce cruelty associated with specific show practices.