HAHS was the first humane society established in the United States to focus specifically on large animals, primarily horses. Unlike small animals (dogs and cats), hooved animals had little representation until the Hooved Animal Humane Society was formed. In 1973, HAHS was the driving force behind the passage of “The Humane Care for Animals Act.” Through the Illinois Department of Agriculture, this Act gives HAHS the legal authority to investigate claims of abuse and neglect and intervene when owners do not comply with a notice to remedy a situation. The Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act is recognized as the legislative model for other states when drafting similar laws.

Since the organization was founded over 50 years ago, it has responded to thousands of calls requesting investigations of facilities housing horses in dire need of help. With the assistance and expertise of volunteer state-licensed investigators, we can respond to calls within a short period of time. HAHS provides hundreds of referrals throughout the United States each month.

With the 1996 release of the powerful expose “Big Lick Walking Horses,” HAHS has raised awareness of the unacceptable methods some trainers use in the Tennessee Walking Horse Industry. In addition, HAHS’s involvement in the controversy surrounding the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Wild Horse and Burro population control methods dates back to 1987. We have continued to offer alternative methods to control and protect the living monument.