OFA provides a letter of support to Dr. Katrina Merkies’ for her research project entitled “Current state of lesson horse welfare in Canada and best practices for their management”. OFA firmly believes in and advocates for the humane treatment of all animals, including farmed livestock, poultry and equine. The health and welfare of these horses is crucial in ensuring the animals can continue to work, and the businesses remain operational, sustainable, and profitable. OFA recognizes equines as a viable component of our provincial and national agricultural system, and their contribution to the rural economy. The project proposed by Dr. Merkies would allow a better understanding of current lesson horse management practices nationwide and allow for targeted educational efforts to create and improve best management practices, bolstering the longevity and welfare for these horses.