Report Unethical Treatment of Arabian Horses

The Arabian Horse Association is committed to the protection and welfare of Arabian, Half-Arabian, and Anglo-Arabian horses in competition and daily care or equine under a member’s care, control or custody is prohibited. Your report matters.

Arabian Horse Association

Official Policy Statement June 11, 2026

AHA Animal Welfare & Membership Policy

At the heart of the Arabian horse community is a deep and abiding bond between people and horses. That relationship carries with it a profound responsibility, one the AHA Board of Directors takes seriously.

AHA membership is a privilege, and it must reflect the values we hold as a community. The Board has adopted the following policy to make clear that those who fail to uphold the basic standards of animal care and welfare have no place in our organization.

The Arabian Horse Association believes in the proper care and protection of all animals but most particularly our equine partners and expects all members to show the same love and compassion to those animals they own, lease or who are under their custody or care. Any person who is convicted of or who has pled guilty to an allegation of animal cruelty (no matter how defined under state or local law) or who has been ordered or who has voluntarily agreed to relinquish ownership of animals as a part of a civil or criminal agreement related to state or local enforcement efforts associated with allegations of a failure to provide adequate care for animals (no matter how defined under state or local law) shall be denied AHA membership.

For any current member, the AHA Board of Directors shall decide (after verifying such state or local civil or criminal records or relinquishment records) whether to suspend or revoke their AHA membership. Such decision shall be rendered after providing the member notice and the opportunity to be heard as required by Colorado law.

Any and all decisions regarding denial of membership, suspension or revocation of membership shall remain confidential except as required by law or to ensure the appropriate membership privileges have been denied, suspended or revoked.

AHA contributes to the greater good of horses by assisting with their protection and welfare in daily competition — ensuring fairness, safety, and the enjoyment of the sport. People like you support this work by reporting violations and abuse.

The Rules That Protect Our Horses

AHA's Code of Ethics and Sportsmanship establishes clear protections for every horse under its jurisdiction at recognized shows and events.

Neglect Code

Care & Neglect

Neglect includes failure to provide food, water, shelter, exercise, or other care that is normal, usual, or proper for a horse's health and well-being.

EPRB Jurisdiction

Ethical Practice Board

The EPRB has authority to hear cases of misconduct concerning the care or treatment of Arabian, Half-Arabian, or Anglo-Arabian horses at AHA-sponsored or recognized events.

How to Report Abuse or Neglect

First Priority

Document what you witnessed
Collect as much evidence as possible before filing. Strong reports are detailed, specific, and well-supported. Gather the following:
- Video footage and photographs of the incident
- Names and contact details of witnesses who were present
- Exact date, time, show name, and ring or class number
- Horse registration number, exhibitor name, and trainer name
- A written, first-person account of what you observed
At-Show Violations

Notify the show steward on-site immediately

For abuse occurring during competition, report to the show steward or competition manager right away. Formal protest procedures must be used for show rule infractions. Ask the steward to document the incident in the official show record.
Formal Complaint

File a complaint with the AHA EPRB

Submit a written application with full supporting documentation to AHA headquarters. Cases are first reviewed by the Probable Cause Panel, then forwarded to the full Ethical Practice Review Board if sufficient grounds exist.
EPRB Rules
Additional Reporting

Report to US Equestrian (USEF) as well

AHA and USEF rules work in tandem. For serious violations at USEF-sanctioned events, also report directly to USEF — it has independent enforcement authority and may act separately from AHA proceedings.
Horse Welfare
Human Abuse

Report abuse of junior exhibitors to SafeSport

AHA supports the US Center for SafeSport's program to protect junior exhibitors and amateurs from sexual, emotional, and physical misconduct, as well as bullying, harassment, and hazing. Use SafeSport's dedicated reporting process for incidents involving people.
SafeSport