Final answer:
The Horse Protection Act protects horses against the practice of soring, which involves causing pain or discomfort to a horse's legs or hooves to create an exaggerated gait.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Horse Protection Act protects horses against a procedure called soring. Soring is the act of causing pain or discomfort to a horse's legs or hooves to create an exaggerated, high-stepping gait in show horses. This is achieved through the use of various methods, such as the application of caustic chemicals or the use of mechanical devices.
The Horse Protection Act was enacted in 1970 to prevent the practice of soring and ensure the well-being of horses in the show industry. Through the act, horses are protected from any form of soring, including the use of chemicals, pressure shoeing, or any other method that causes pain or distress.