 The majority of the world’s horses, donkeys, and mules are not found in the United States.  Only 8% of the world’s horses and less than 1% of the donkeys and mules are located in the U.S.

 The world population of horses is about 60 million.  More than half of the world’s horses are found in Asia (27%) and South America (25%).  Mexico (10%)  Africa (8%)  United States (8%)  Europe (7%)  All other (15%)

 Most (80%) of the donkeys in the world are found in Africa (30%) and Asia (50%).  Worldwide donkey population – 43 million.  US donkey population – 54,000.  Offspring of a male donkey and a female horse – sterile.

 Most (84%) mules are located in Mexico (21%), South America (23%), and Asia (40%).  Worldwide mule population – 15 million.  US Mule population – 28,000.

 1915 – Highest number of horses ever recorded – over 21 million.  1960 – Lowest number of horses ever recorded – 3 million horses. Expansion of manufacturing, commerce, and farming lead to the decline.  After 1960 – until today. Increased to 5 -7 million horses.

 Texas  California  Oklahoma  Colorado  New York  Ohio  Michigan  Pennsylvania  Washington  Kentucky

 Quarter Horse  Arabian  Thoroughbred

 The horse industry directly produces goods and services amounting to $25.3 billion.  Sale of horses, breeding fees, races, shows, rodeos, and entertainment.  Total economic impact of $112.1 billion.  Racing, showing, and recreation each contribute more than 25% to the total value of goods and services produced by the horse industry.  338,500 jobs

 Horse Shows  Dressage  Rodeos  Polo  Fox Hunting  Driving Carts/Wagons  Riding  Draft Horse Demonstrations

 Unsoundness and Injury  Identification, prevention, and treatment of injuries  Breeding and Reproduction  Embryo transfer, genetic mapping  Nutrition  Grazing methods, nutrient requirements  Disease Prevention and Control  More effective immunizations, control of parasites