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The 2012 Reichert Celebration recently concluded in Fort Worth, TX. and met with an excellent reception by the city, show attendees, and exhibitors from multiple breeds. While the show was an astounding success, there have been rumors circulating regarding an incident that took place Saturday evening, wherein a particular trainer’s horse was not being cared for in what is considered by the industry to be suitable methods.

We spoke with Terry Schroeder, who was able to give us a statement assuring that the situation was brought to the attention of AQHA and NSBA show stewards immediately and is currently being dealt with in the most expedient fashion.

“What we need to do first and foremost is assure everyone that there is an ongoing criminal investigation by the Fort Worth Police related to allegations of cruelty to animals,” Schroeder says. “All of the individual breed associations, as well as NSBA and AQHA stewards, are involved in the ongoing investigation process. As of right now, the name of the trainer, horse, and owner involved will not be released until the investigation has been completed.”

“The stewards were immediately notified of the situation and took it upon themselves to handle it with the best care and welfare of the animal in mind.”

The Reichert Celebration is known for their focus on a family-friendly environment and emphasis on furthering the growth of the horse industry as a whole. Improper actions on behalf of exhibitors will be dealt with in a professional manner and with the proper respect to all parties involved. The Reichert Celebration, NSBA, and other breed associations are to be commended for their quick action and no tolerance policy regarding allegations of cruelty to animals.

NSBA also released a similar statement earlier today.

“NSBA monitor, Gary Trubee, was on the show grounds and has filed the report with the association. The American Quarter Horse Association steward, the Fort Worth Police Department and Animal Control were notified of the incident. NSBA along with AQHA will be conducting a thorough investigation in this matter. NSBA has a firm, no tolerance stand, on animal abuse and violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the rules. NSBA will move forward to investigate and prosecute anyone charged with violations of inhumane treatment of horses.”

AQHA has since released a similar statement.

“AQHA was made aware of an alleged case of animal abuse that took place at the Reichert Celebration. The Association has obtained a copy of the police report and is working with stewards who were at the event to obtain their reports and photos of the horse in question.

Because the Reichert Celebration is a dual approved event, the National Snaffle Bit Association also has been in contact with AQHA to discuss the situation and address the matter as alliance partners.

As with any reported case of animal abuse, AQHA takes this matter seriously and will proceed accordingly and as swiftly as possible once the Association has received and reviewed all the necessary documentation. AQHA appreciates the immediate action show management and officials with the Reichert took to protect the horse.”

As always, additional information will be released to the public as soon as it has been made available to us by official outlets.