The last Kentucky Horse Council (KHC) Livestock Investigation Training (LIT) for 2022 is slated to take place October 24-26 in Lexington. Registration for all county and state officials, including animal control officers, sheriffs, police officers and other law enforcement officials and prosecutors in Kentucky, is free; registration for equine rescue and adoption organization employees is $150 for the three-day training.

Developed by the 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. During 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 be hosted at the Secretariat Center, a Thoroughbred reschooling facility located at the Kentucky Horse Park, and the Blue Grass Stockyards. There they 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. 

“The Livestock Investigation Trainings provide vital education on animal abuse and neglect to our Kentucky peace officers and to other attendees involved in livestock welfare and care,” said Sarah Coleman, Kentucky Horse Council executive director. “This year, we added a question-and-answer session with some of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s investigators and this has been incredibly well received. In addition to learning the nuances of Kentucky’s animal welfare laws, this class encourages networking and candid conversation among attendees so that no officer or official feels alone when dealing with a possible neglect or abuse case.”

Sponsorship of this program allows the Kentucky Horse Council to provide free training registration to county and state officials, including animal control officers, police, sheriffs and other law enforcement personnel. Download the sponsor packet here.

The KHC has educated over 275 officers and officials from 62 Kentucky counties since the inception of the trainings in 2008. This course is open to out-of-state officials and equine enthusiasts for a fee of $250 per person. Register for the course here.

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