New Mexico Equine Cruelty Law

The turning of a head, shy of touch, shaking of a body, the broken spirit and bruised soul of a horse sends cries too silent to hear, yet too loud to ignore…apathy is a horse's hell…

NM Stat. Ann. 30-18-01 et seq. - last amended 2001

Definition of Animals: Does not include insects or reptiles.

Statute Summary: A person commits the crime of cruelty to animals if the person:

Cruelty to animals.

4th or Subsequent offense of cruelty to animals.

Extreme Cruelty to Animals

R E P O R T   A B U S E .   B E   A   H E R O .  WNCR takes all reports of abuse seriously. An individual can report abuse with confidence that (a) his/her anonymity will be protected, and (b) WNCR will personally investigate the equine in full cooperation with law enforcement officials. Once reported, WNCR will follow through until the alleged abuser is punished and the affected equines have been removed or protected on premise by law.

WNCR opens its doors to the abused/neglected horse. In some cases, where neglect is present, WNCR will attempt to purchase the horse, without law enforcement assistance.

To report suspected neglect or abuse, call WNCR directly, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. An individual may prefer to use the website for reporting as well. The individual may call a staff member to discuss (anonymously) defining abuse as well.

In general, horses should have good flesh on them. Ribs and hips should not be apparent. The horse should move freely and naturally, without severe neglect to the hooves. A horse should have shelter from inclement weather, access to fresh water and food, and should not be kept penned up for long periods of time. Exercise for a horse is important for the overall mental and physical health.

Neglect or ignorance is the most common cause for damage to horses. Unfortunately, individuals do not have to pass a comprehensive examination before purchasing an equine. Many learn as they go, some do not care to learn at all. Even though providing the absolute minimum care is legal, it is not healthy for the equine. Some individuals have offered to purchase equines from substandard farms/ranches. Sometimes, those horses end up at WNCR, where we can rehabilitate and provide a safe, comfortable environment for the horse as well as give the horse a second chance at life.