“The class tests ranch-type horses in a show setting, so by having the option of including cattle at all of our championship- and world championship-level shows, we’re giving these equine athletes the chance to demonstrate that they have the ideal traits of a working ranch horse, which includes being around cattle with a calm and attentive demeanor.”

“AQHA members are involved in showing, racing, ranching, rodeos and recreation, and it is common for AQHA members to haul their horses interstate over long distances (much like other livestock haulers),” Huffhines said in his letter to the DOT. “We encourage the Department of Transportation to grant a one-year enforcement delay followed by a waiver and limited exemptions from compliance with the December 18, 2017, implementation date for the final rule on ELDs and hours of service. This will allow the department the opportunity to take appropriate steps to alleviate any unintended consequences that this mandate may have on the hauling of horses or other livestock.”