Temporary Halt in Missouri’s Horse Slaughter Plans

The Humane Society of the United States recently partnered with Front Range Equine Rescue and other animal-welfare organizations to file a motion against a Missouri horse slaughter plant. Earlier this year, Rains Natural Meats received approval from the US Department of Agriculture for inspections, which would allow it to begin slaughtering horses for human consumption. A US District Court judge in New Mexico, in response to HSUS’ motion, has issued a restraining order temporarily blocking federal inspections of the slaughterhouse, thus halting any immediate plans of horse slaughter. “This is a temporary but important reprieve for horses … We will continue to make the case that the US should reject this industry,” senior vice president of animal protection litigation for HSUS, Jonathan Lovvorn, said in a statement.