A Manitoba live horse exporter, Carolyle Farms, will stand trial in February 2026 for violating federal animal transport laws by exceeding the legal 28-hour travel limit without food, water, or rest during a shipment to Japan. The shipment, originally scheduled to stop in Anchorage, was rerouted through Seattle due to a snowstorm, extending the journey to over 32 hours. During the flight, three horses collapsed, highlighting the risks and stress of prolonged transport in wooden crates. The trial follows a rare private prosecution initiated by Animal Justice after federal authorities declined to enforce the law.

This case is notable as it marks one of the first private prosecutions involving farmed animals to reach trial in Canada. Animal Justice, along with other animal welfare groups, filed complaints with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, which did not act, prompting legal action. The case underscores concerns about the welfare of horses during live export and the need for stricter enforcement of animal transport regulations.