Thank you for the great article, “Horses healing hearts” (page 2, Jan. 4 Kitsap Week). You emphasized how the unique personality and companionship of each horse enabled the less confident to gain strength in their lives.

As we know, this country was built on the backs of horses. Millions died in world wars and horses continue to provide many benefits to mankind. It is a sorry fact of life that many humans do not show gratitude for the service and unconditional love we receive from horses.

It is easy to look the other way when horses are sent to slaughter when they grow old, sick or are no longer useful. Two horse “processing plants” recently operated in Illinois and Texas.

In November 2011, a ban on horse slaughter for meat was lifted as part of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations  Act of Fiscal Year 2012. A horse slaughterhouse is now being considered in Missouri. When one is not nearby, horses can legally be transported to Mexico or Canada.

Horses are frequently sent away in ill-designed, double-decker trucks meant for cattle that squeeze horse necks into contorted positions that horses frightfully endure over long distances — never mind the terror these intelligent animals experience in the slaughter lines.

It is greed for profit from the horse meat market for overseas consumers that supports the killing of horses.

Humane Lobby Day takes place in Olympia on Jan. 28. This is but one opportunity to voice your opposition to your legislators.

Disrespectful killing of horses continues only because an insufficient number of people do not express their opposition to the practice. Make your love of horses be heard. Tell your congressional representatives that you do not want horses sent to slaughter — anytime, anywhere.

Thank you.
Linda Troup
Poulsbo