Program Term Archive
Soring
Soring
EquinesHorse soring involves the intentional infliction of pain on Tennessee walking horses and related breeds to achieve a distinct high-stepping gait called “the Big Lick” that is rewarded in the show ring. Known...
Urge Congress to End the Abusive Practice of Soring Horses
Equines“Soring”—which involves intentionally inflicting pain on a horse’s hooves and front limbs to produce an exaggerated high-stepping gait known as the “Big Lick”—remains a persistent and rampant practice in Tennessee...
On First Day Back in Session, Congress Urged to Protect Horses
Press ReleaseSeptember 2, 2025EquinesAs Congress returned today from its August recess, thousands of Americans across the country joined a National Day of Action to call on lawmakers to make horse protection a top...
Prevent All Soring Tactics Act
EquinesSoring—which involves intentionally inflicting pain on a horse’s hooves and front limbs to produce an exaggerated high-stepping gait known as the Big Lick—remains a persistent and rampant practice in Tennessee...
Facing Industry Pressure, USDA Delays Crucial Horse Protections
Press ReleaseJanuary 24, 2025EquinesThe Animal Welfare Institute (AWI) is disappointed with the US Department of Agriculture’s announcement today that it will delay implementation of regulations to protect horses from egregiously inhumane soring until April 2, 2025. Soring...
USDA Takes Long-Awaited Step to End Inhumane Horse Soring
Press ReleaseMay 8, 2024EquinesToday, the US Department of Agriculture published a final rule to end the brutal practice of horse soring at Tennessee walking horse shows. The improved regulations, scheduled to take effect on February...
House Revives PAST Act to End Equine Abuse at Horse Shows
Press ReleaseMay 8, 2023EquinesThe Animal Welfare Institute (AWI) endorses Friday's reintroduction in the US House of Representatives of the Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act (H.R. 3090) to combat the inhumane practice of “soring,”...