Fourth Horse Seizure Exposes Deep Failings in Animal Welfare Laws

Dozens of neglected horses have been seized—for the fourth time—from the same Vermont horse farm, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of U.S. animal welfare protections. As reported by Greta Solsaa at VTDigger, 39 horses were removed from Friesians of Majesty in June 2025. Some arrived at rescue centers critically underweight, covered in lice, mites, and untreated infections.

While rescue teams in Vermont, Maryland, and Maine are now caring for the animals, advocates say the recurring cruelty is a symptom of systemic failure. Jen Straub of Dorset Equine Rescue called the conditions a direct result of “neglect, not getting proper grooming and bathing, not getting regular care.”

The farm’s owner, Robert Labrie, has faced charges since 2023, yet still legally owns horses due to the legal presumption of innocence. Rep. Chea Waters Evans explained that new legislation passed in 2024 created a Division of Animal Welfare to address these gaps—but change is slow, and cases like this continue to fall through the cracks.

Lisa Milot, the division’s new director, is reviewing out-of-state laws to propose streamlined procedures and reduce the burden on volunteer-run rescues. Vermont still lacks a state-run animal impound system, which forces nonprofit shelters to cover care costs for years while courts deliberate.

Without urgent reforms—like faster trials, consistent enforcement, and proper funding—more animals will suffer silently. As Milot noted, “There’s no real consistency in how the cases are handled.”

If we want to protect animals, we need more than empty laws—we need action. Support local rescues, speak out for stricter animal protection legislation, and choose plant-based lifestyles that reject animal exploitation at every level. Because cruelty doesn’t just happen in barns—it’s tolerated in silence.

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