New York police intercept 25 horses bound for Quebec slaughterhouse

New York State Police intercepted a truck carrying 25 horses near the Canadian border, preventing their transport from Pennsylvania to a slaughterhouse in Quebec. The driver was arrested under New York’s 2024 law, which prohibits the slaughter, sale, purchase, or transport of horses intended for human or animal consumption.

This enforcement action is believed to be the first arrest made under the legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in December 2023. The law was designed to close loopholes in the pipeline that moves horses across borders for slaughter.

The rescued horses are currently receiving veterinary care and are in quarantine through the New York State Humane Association. Some reports indicate the animals may find sanctuary at Unbridled Sanctuary in Southern Albany County. Advocates are using the incident to call for nationwide legislation to prevent horses from being rerouted through different states to bypass regional bans.