I. Preamble

The Walking Horse Trainers Association is committed to promoting and protecting the welfare of the Tennessee Walking Horse, and preserving the Walking Horse industry for future generations.  To do so, the Assocaition has developed and is committed to the following Code of Ethics.

II. Code of Ethics

Individuals licensed by the Walking Horse Trainers Association shall accept and abide by the following ethical rules of conduct. Any individual who is found to be in violation of one, some, or all of the ethical rules shall be disciplined accordingly by the Board of Directors of the Walking Horse Trainers Association, and is subject to loss of license.

Licensed individuals of the Walking Horse Trainers Association shall:

1. Treat all horses in their care humanely, and with dignity and respect. Trainers shall use proper care in training, handling, and showing them, And shall not utilize techniques known to inflict pain for the purposes of performance enhancement. Trainers found to have used pressure shoeing shall lose their training license and be banned from the Walking Horse Trainers Association for life.

2. Accurately represent any data or information about a horse which affects the sale of said horse, and conduct all business transactions in a straight-forward and honest manner. If a buyer requests information regarding a horse’s fitness and health, trainers will refer such questions to a qualified veterinarian.

3. Support and promote the overall objectives of the Walking Horse Trainers Association which are:

a. To improve the public image and reputation of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breed.

b. Promote the ownership and showing of the Tennessee Walking Horse.

c. Develop improved training techniques of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breed focused on humane handling that complements the natural abilities of the breed.

d. Educate the public about the uniqueness and value of the Tennessee Walking Horse.

e. Work cooperative, collaboratively and professionally with USDA and DQPs to ensure compliance with the Horse Protection Act.