Author: Art Gib Date posted: Nov 13, 2008 Article views: 90 Wordcount: 440 Ezine Ready
Equine law is intended to protect the rights of horses and horse owners in all aspects of the law. The practice of equine law is a specialized field, with many law firms vying for these cases. They range from anything like liability for a loose horse, to suits against sellers or potential buyers, to the abuse of horses.
Equestrian groups have a vast support network concerning the running of their businesses and the rights of horses and their owners. These groups are highly dedicated to disseminating legal and operational information to their fellow horseman.
Horseadvise, for example, offers discussion groups, articles about horse care, diseases, medications, reproduction, training, behavior, and more. Another active group is Equinelaw. The author and owner of this group is Julie I. Fershtman, Attorney at Law. Ms. Fershtman has written two books, Equine Law and Horse Sense, and MORE Equine Lay and Horse Sense, and has a new book currently in publication for release in 2009 titled The ABA_Tips Guide to Litigating Animal Law Cases. Equinelegalsolutions offers advice on subjects such as pros and cons of pre-purchase veterinary exams, equine partnerships, and sample agreement forms on various subjects.
Lexmonitor is a blog where an attorney reviews real case studies and comments from the legal view of the case. An example of cases that can be found here is, "Is a Horse Owner Liable for Damages if A Horse Gets Loose", "Does a Veterinarian Have to Treat Your Horse In an Emergency?", and "What if A Potential Buyer Does Not Return Horse After A Trial Period?"
Even more controversial are the laws governing thoroughbred racing. Although equestrian law supports horse racing as a sport and business, animal rights activists have been up in arms because of recent racing injuries that have lead to the death of several horses.
In 2005, after every attempt was made to save Barbaro, the thoroughbred was euthanized due to injuries suffered during the Kentucky Derby. Only three years later, Eight Belles suffered two broken ankles during the race and was euthanized on the track.
The two horses were distant relatives of a 1950's horse, Native Dancer, who also had a shortened career due to leg injuries. If it was really about the wellbeing of the horses, wouldn't one think that horses put to death would not be the norm at the Kentucky Derby?
Until researching equine law, anyone not associated with the equestrian world would never realize how complex and specialized these laws are and the dedication of the groups supporting the law in conjunction with the law firms defending them.
As you can see, equestrians have a network all their own.
Looking for a Washington equine lawyer? Try visiting http://eavesmathewslaw.com for advice and attorney services for your equine law needs. Art Gib is a freelance writer.
