In 2022, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) began an evaluation of its holding facilities for wild horses and burros. The BLM used standards determined by its Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program (CAWP).
These assessments were made public and exposed numerous animal welfare violations within the BLM’s holding facilities. The findings are clear evidence that these facilities are not safe for wild horses and burros.
Results from 17 of the 28 holding facilities thus far reveal violations including:
- Insufficient access to hay and water
- Pens without salt or mineral blocks
- Lack of shade in outdoor pens
- Failure to comply with vaccination policies
- Poorly maintained facilities
- Inadequate record-keeping practices
- Failure to follow proper biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of contagious diseases, and more.
At this time, there are over 64,000 wild horses and burros warehoused in holding facilities across the country.