From Showjumping to Slaughterhouses: My Journey to Creating a Documentary on Horse Welfare
- Maria Granberg
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
Horses have been integral to my life since childhood; I began riding at eight and got my first horse at thirteen. Competing in showjumping taught me discipline, patience, and respect for these animals. Although my career shifted to the entertainment industry, I recently uncovered a hidden dark side of the horse world in the United States.
This post shares my journey from the excitement of showjumping arenas to uncovering the harsh realities of horse auctions and slaughterhouses. It also explains why I am now committed to hopefully create a documentary to raise awareness about horse welfare.
Early Years with Horses and Showjumping
Horses were my companions and teachers growing up, teaching me nonverbal communication and trust. By the time I competed in showjumping, I had formed a strong bond with them and understood their needs deeply.
Showjumping requires precision, timing, and a strong rider-horse bond. I loved the thrill of clearing courses but learned about the toll on horses, which instilled lasting respect and care in me, even after leaving the sport.
Discovering the Dark Side of Horse Auctions
Years after leaving showjumping, I discovered that although horse slaughter is illegal in the U.S., many horses are sent to Mexico, where they endure brutal and inhumane slaughter practices.
I follow few Instagram accounts that advocates documenting auctions and holding facilities. The shared images and stories were heartbreaking: horses once with homes or careers were crammed into small pens, facing uncertain fates. Many were injured, sick, or too old to work, yet treated as commodities rather than living beings.
This discovery hit me hard. I realized that the world I loved and knew was connected to a much darker reality. It was a side of the horse industry that few people see, and even fewer talk about.
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Why I Want to Make a Documentary
My entertainment industry background equips me to tell impactful stories. A documentary can reach a wide audience and inspire change by revealing the reality behind the headlines.
The aim is to educate and motivate action, not to shock. Many horse lovers are unaware of what happens to horses after they leave the show ring or farm. By sharing real stories and footage, I hope to build empathy and support for improved laws and protections.
How You Can Help Horses in Need
Raising awareness is just the first step. Here are ways anyone can support horse welfare:
Adopt or foster horses from rescues instead of buying from auctions.
Support organizations that rescue and rehabilitate horses.
Advocate for stronger laws to protect horses from abuse and slaughter.
Educate others about the realities of horse auctions and slaughter.
Report abuse if you see horses in distress or neglect.
Moving Forward with Purpose
My journey from showjumping to uncovering the harsh truths about horse auctions has been eye-opening. It has strengthened my commitment to horses and their welfare. If I sucecfully create this documentary it is my way of giving back to the animals that have given me so much joy and companionship.
Horses deserve respect, care, and protection throughout their lives—not just when they are winning ribbons or performing.
What kind of future do you think we should be creating for animals like horses?
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