Three-day Event Educates Officials on Animal Abuse and Neglect

June 8, 2021 – Lexington, KY – After a hiatus in 2020, the Kentucky Horse Council’s Livestock Investigation Training (LIT) is slated to return in the fall of 2021. The three-day training will take place in Lexington from September 20-22. Registration is now open to all county and state officials, including animal control officers, sheriffs, police officers and other law enforcement officials and prosecutors in Kentucky.  

Developed by the Kentucky Horse Council (KHC) in partnership with the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association (KCA) with input from experienced enforcement officers, veterinarians and livestock producers, this course is tailored to the needs of the Commonwealth. These trainings, officials will learn how to safely and strategically manage horses, cattle and other livestock running at large, as well as how to identify at-risk animals.

LIT attendees will learn how to handle horses and cattle, assess body condition score in both species, identify situations that need intervention, and apply Kentucky statutes to animal-associated court cases. Attendees will also practice handling and evaluating live horses and cattle, as well as examining Kentucky statutes and enforcement procedures. 

“We are excited for our Livestock Investigation Training to return this fall,” said Sarah Coleman, Kentucky Horse Council Executive Director. “These trainings provide vital education on animal abuse and neglect to our Kentucky peace officers. A good understanding of livestock handling and husbandry increases the likelihood of positive outcomes for loose animals or those found in neglectful situations.”

The KHC has educated over 250 officers from 60 Kentucky counties since the inception of the trainings in 2008. The Commonwealth of Kentucky recognizes the importance of these trainings, with the Office of the State Veterinarian regularly sending investigators to the classes.

The three-day course is approved as Continuing Education for Peace Officers by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training as well as Pay Incentive Course Credit by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council. Cost to attend the three-day training is $150 per officer. Out-of-state officials may attend for a fee of $250 per officer. Limited scholarships for tuition are available, thanks to the generous support of our sponsors. Register for the course here. Download the sponsor packet here.

For more information, visit www.kentuckyhorse.org or contact the Kentucky Horse Council at 859-367-0509 or info@kentuckyhorse.org