FOSH’s HIO Inspection Program is an established one handled by certified and trained experts who ensure that the provisions and regulations of the Horse Protection Act (HPA or the Act) are impartially and reliably fulfilled. These experts are also known as Designated Qualified Persons (DQPs) when they are working in the field. DQPs have no enforcement authority other than as delegated by the USDA for inspections at horse shows, exhibitions, and sales where they have been assigned. Shows, sales, and exhibitions wishing to use FOSH DQPs enter into a contract with FOSH to be “affiliated.”
FOSH considers its relationship with the USDA as one of the partnerships in ending the illegal soring and pressure soring practices in the equine industry. As outlined in the Horse Protection Act, FOSH provides safeguards for compliant exhibitors by ensuring that unfit horses to enter a show ring are not placed in competitions.
