Dear Walking Horse Owner,

As you probably know there have been many negative reports in the media lately regarding Tennessee Walking Horses. The TWH performance horse especially is under attack by groups calling for the banning of pads and action devices. A newly formed group, Tennessee Walking Show Horse Organization (TWSHO), have developed a strategy to educate stakeholders about our performance horses and administer the Swabbing Initiative approved by the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA).

1. The Swabbing Initiative will be offered to all HIOs that inspect performance and flat shod/pleasure horses, as well as all Show Managers. The protocol will include collection of swabs, for caines and caustics, by independent vet techs as coordinated by TWSHO. Initially all show horses (except weanling, lead line, yearling) at participating affiliated shows will be inspected and identified by class and entry number. Swabs will be sent to an Independent laboratory for analysis. Swabbing will start June 15, 2012.

2. TWSHO is also in the process of interviewing public relations firms to help coordinate all of our media relations.

3. TWSHO is also forming a committee to develop the stakeholder information program to politicians, Show Managers, and other interested or concerned Organizations.

All of these actions require money. We are making an urgent request for financial help. Randall Baskin has made a challenge to the WHTA to raise $100,000 and he will match that amount. The TWSHO has also formed a funding committee of Mike Inman, Bruce MacDonald, Bob Medina, Virginia Stewart and Gail Walling to raise money as well as develop funding initiatives going forward. The goal is $1 million dollars and the donations will be tax deductible.

These negative attacks affect all owners, trainers, breeders and supporters of the Tennessee Walking Horse. As your trainer, I am asking you to make any donation you can to help save our performance walking horses.

Here is how to donate:
Donations can be sent to FAST at PO Box 259, Shelbyville, TN 37162
If sending a check please include on the memo line: TWSHO/WHTA Fund
OR

To make a donation:

PayPal is also available through the FAST website, www.fastwalkingshowhorse.org
Please email FAST
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
to please forward your donation to the TWSHO/WHTA Fund.
*There is a special fund set up separately from all other FAST accounts solely for the purpose of the TWSHO/WHTA donations.

Information from Walking Horse Trainers’ Association.