In 1998, equine ranching industry reports indicated that two basic husbandry issues require critical assessment: watering methods and exercise schedules (American Association of Equine Practitioners, 1998).

Both reports concluded that overall mares were observed absent of abnormal behaviour and that their biochemical hydration status was appropriate independent of independent or intermittent water delivery strategies (American Journal of Veterinary Research, 1999; American Association of Equine Practitioners, 1998).

While the Recommended Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Horses in PMU Operations provides guidelines and recommendations failure to comply with the code does not result in automatic penalty.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

Further a consensus report on the care of PMU mares was published after a combined review by representatives from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, American Association of Equine Practioners, and the International League for the Protection of Horses.

• The report concluded that ranchers took “pride” in their animals, that observations for improvement have been taken seriously and that the public should be assured that “generally” the horses are very well cared for.
• Further they concluded that based on inspections allegations of inhumane treatment were untrue and that levels of care and welfare of the horses is closely monitored

The American Association of Equine Practitioners believe the Recommended Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Horses in PMU Operations represents “responsible management” (NAERIC, 2015).