oklahoma rancher

As a rancher in Colorado, Kansas, and Oklahoma, I have used horses most of my life. I depend on horses for my livelihood. I have a great respect for horses, however, we as Americans have forgot some very important things.

First, we are humans; we are given dominion over animals. Horses are not the same as humans, they do NOT have the same worth.

Second, the number of starving people in the world has hit record numbers. Horse meat is a healthy protein source. Prior to WWII many Americans ate horses, so the statement that Americans don't eat horse is a new thing.

Third, what are we going to do with the excess horses? In 1800, when we used horses for most every thing, the number of horses in this country was about 7 million. Now in 2009 the number is about 9 million. As more and more people end up unwanted horses, what are they to do with them? The complete ban on horse slaughter would be a huge mistake, with horrible results.