The number of unwanted, abandoned or "problem" horses has been increasing at an alarming rate over the past decade, estimated now to average about 170,000 per year within the United States alone. The problem has been intensified by the economic hardships affecting everyone, from individuals to large organizations.

While horse enthusiasts and industry professionals have made substantial efforts to help with this growing population of unwanted horses, the problem is not being adequately alleviated. New and innovative solutions that address both the humane care for the existing excess population of horses and the prevention of continued generations of animals for which there is no viable need must be identified and implemented.

The Center for Equine Health has been involved in this effort in a number of ways:

• Collaboration in the development of the International Animal Welfare Training Institute through the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.


• Maintaining animal rescue and disaster medicine endowments to provide funding for animal welfare research and disaster relief.


• Supporting the UC Davis Veterinary Emergency Response Team.


• Participating in the largest intramural research program dedicated to equine health in the United States.


• Helping develop the UC Davis large animal lift and other equipment for rescuing horses and other large animals.


• Development of new technologies for the care and treatment of horses.


• Publication of educational materials for the general public as well as veterinary professionals.

This website is intended to provide information on our ongoing efforts concerning the welfare of unwanted horses.