The Unwanted Horse Coalition (UHC) has added $14,400 to its Operation Gelding fund thanks to a collaborative donation made by the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, the American Quarter Horse Association and the Masters of Foxhounds Association.

“Through Operation Gelding, the UHC provides funds and materials to assist groups that wish to host low-cost or free clinics in which horse owners can have their stallions castrated by a certified veterinarian. Funds of $50 per horse gelded with a $1,000 maximum are awarded to participating groups once in a 12-month period,” said UHC Chairman, Dr. Doug Corey.

The impetus for these clinics is that the castration of a stallion will help prevent over-breeding, in turn reducing the number of unwanted horses being bred. Castrations will also produce a gentler horse that is more rideable, trainable and saleable, allowing them to be used in several careers.

Since its inception in August 2010, Operation Gelding has facilitated the castration of 959 horses in 80 clinics in 32 states.

“Operation Gelding is made possible by generous donations such as these and the UHC would like to thank these member organizations for their continued support of the UHC and its mission to reduce the number of unwanted horses,” said UHC Director, Dagmar Caramello.

Anyone wishing to support the UHC’s various efforts can do so by contacting the UHC.

The mission of the Unwanted Horse Coalition is to reduce the number of unwanted horses and improve their welfare through education and the efforts of organizations committed to the health, safety and responsible care and disposition of these horses. The UHC grew out of the Unwanted Horse Summit, which was organized by the American Association of Equine Practitioners and held in conjunction with the American Horse Council’s annual meeting in Washington, D.C., in April 2005. The summit was held to bring key stakeholders together to start a dialogue on the unwanted horse in America. Its purpose was to develop consensus on the most effective way to work together to address the issue. In June 2006, the UHC was folded into the AHC and now operates under its auspices.