Campaign to Ban Horse-Drawn Vehicles in NYC
Council Member Tony Avella Boosts Campaign to Ban Horse-Drawn Vehicles in NYC
New York City’s horse-drawn carriage industry shouldn’t be seen as a permanent fixture just needing cleanup. It’s time to end the business entirely.” Birnkrant added, “Exploitation is not an appropriate tourist attraction.
Just days later, a mare named Smoothie broke free after being spooked by street noises, ran into a tree, and died.
With high-profile press conferences, interviews, and a candlelight vigil, Friends of Animals, The Coalition to Ban Horse-Drawn Carriages, and other supporters have raised public awareness about Smoothie, to join together with other activists in New York City, and to call yet again for a ban on the exploitative industry.
NY1 News, in their piece titled “Animal Rights Groups Call For End Of Hansom Cabs,” reported “animal rights activists rallied” to ask Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the City Council to push legislation that would ban the industry.
“It’s the 21st century,” Edita Birnkrant of Friends of Animals told NY1. “It may be a tradition, but it’s one that we need to let go of, because it’s exploitative, it’s unnecessary, and it sends a message of disrespect towards other animals.”
Then, some inspiring news was unveiled.
NYC Council Member Tony Avella (Queens) announced to the press immediate plans to draft and sponsor legislation that would ban horse-drawn carriages. Avella’s decision marks the first time a politician has decided to sponsor a bill seeking to ban the carriage industry in New York City.
Present at the press conference was Broadway actor and singer Nellie Mckay, who declared, “We will never have human rights until we stop the wholesale exploitation of animals and the environment.”
Edita Birnkrant also addressed the crowd and press, noting that future tragedies are inevitable unless New Yorkers support this opportunity to finally end this business in New York City. Birnkrant urged New Yorkers to contact their district Council Member to express their strong support for legislation that would ban the industry.
To support Council Member Tony Avella’s proposed ban, contact:
Tony Avella
District 19 Office
38-50 Bell Blvd., Suite C
Bayside, New York 11361
District Office Phone: 718.747.2137
District Office Fax: 718.747.3105
What next?
When the industry closes, we at Friends of Animals are committed to assuring every affected horse is placed in a permanent sanctuary. In the coming weeks we expect to work with Council Member Avella in assuring that our shared vision will become a reality, and a long overdue relief for the horses.
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72 Comments
On September 25, 2007, Kara Forbis wrote:
Horses are beautiful animals that should be celebrated, not used as tourist attractions.
On September 25, 2007, Joyce Chadwick wrote:
Let’s not let Smoothie die in vain. It’s 2007 not the 1800’s…It’s about time we end the Horse-Drawn carriage business.
On September 25, 2007, Laura Christopher wrote:
I support this in a HUGE way!! This should have been looked at more closly a long time ago. These horses are mistreated in many ways that people are so unaware of. The next time anyone thinks about getting a ride on the horse drawn carriages, please think twice, thank you!
On September 25, 2007, laura wrote:
HAVE WE NOT LEARNED TO HONOR AND CARE FOR GOD’S CREATIONS,YET?
REMIND ME AGAIN WHERE THE MAN-K I N D THING IS AGAIN!
On September 25, 2007, laura lauricella wrote:
I am a horse owner and have been for many years. Horses are very sensitive animals and they do not belong on city streets. They belong in the country where nature intended them to be. I have seen the hansom cabs in NYC and it makes me sick how these horses are treated. They stand in the sun all day with heavy harnesses on in 90+ degree weather! I once approached one of these drivers and asked where the water was and I was told a few blocks away! This is just cruelty at it’s worst! These drivers state that they love their animals when all they care about is the money they are making. Please put an end to this unatural business!
On September 25, 2007, Maureen Morrison wrote:
Having seen these suffering horses in hideous weather conditions in NYC, Rome, Bermuda etc. it is time for it to end. It is 2007 and this sort of exploitation should NOT be happening.
It is sickening to see people sitting, in the vehicles with no thought for the horses misery and as well, to see the horses standing for hours in the heat while the drivers chat to each other.
This barbaric situation must come to an end.
On September 25, 2007, Sandy Dunn wrote:
Anything to support animals. ANYTHING, YOU NAME IT, I want to help!
On September 25, 2007, Nancy Wong wrote:
It’s about time we stop the cruelty the owners perform on these beautiful animals. Tourist have so many other things to do in NYC. These horses are not provided with a break, water, or food and they ride people around NYC. I am happy Council Member Tony Avella is drafting and sponsoring legislation that would ban horse-drawn carriages. Hurray for someone who is starting this! I have never driven in a carriage and I’m glad…
On September 25, 2007, Leno Sislin wrote:
BRAVO AVELA!!!! Something that should have been done a century ago! Even when I was a little kid, I used to suffer for & with those horses, standing for hours in the rain, the snow, the scorching sun…Not to mention their having to breathe the fabulous air of NY as they strain to pull carriages of overweight tourists.
FREE THEM ALL AND LET THEIR DRIVERS GET A JOB WHICH DOESN’T INVOLVE CRUELTY! THE ENTIRE HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE SITUATION IS OVER!!!!
On September 25, 2007, Liz Kovach wrote:
Yes I support this all the way to end the horse-drawn carriage industry. Horses and all animals are beautiful creatures not a freak show!
On September 25, 2007, Ms. Dale Fabrizi wrote:
I lived in NYC for 10 years (I now reside in NJ) and I still own a business in NYC. I remain outraged and disgusted at the thought of riding in one of the Central Park horse-drawn carriages! I have NEVER ridden in one of the carriages and I NEVER will! am originally from Texas where I owned and rode horses, and I know the medical problems and dangers horses are faced with in NYC: the pavement is extremely hard on their legs and hooves, the carriages are extremely heavy, the horses are forced to stand in extremely hot and/or extremely cold conditions for long hours at a time, not to mention the car and taxi dangers! As a taxpayer in NYC, PLEASE ABOLISH THE ANIMAL ABUSE AND STOP THESE CARRIAGE RIDES IMMEDIATELY! Get off of your duffs folks and TRY WALKING THROUGH THE PARK!
On September 25, 2007, Jay Lustgarten wrote:
“Exploitation is not an appropriate tourist destination” - what else needs to be said? Sometimes good ideas go bad and must be remedied - welcome to the real world.
On September 25, 2007, Irene LaRusso wrote:
I whole-heartidly support Tony Avella’s BAN on horse-drawn carriages in NYC. Cheers to you! I remember as a kid how truly sorry I felt for those poor horses, in the heat of the Summer, looking sluggish, tired and pressed to perform. They always seemed to have fear in their eyes and it made me sad then, and it makes me sad — FURIOUS — now to know they are still in existence. In this day and age of modern conveniences and technology, people are distracted enough with cellphones & laptop maneuvers while driving, it’s not fair to expose these beautiful animals to the mess we made. Get them off the streets and back in the fields where nature intended them to be: Roaming wild and free!
On September 25, 2007, Ann Marie Somer wrote:
It is time to stop this mistreatment to horses in this manner. The horses are mistreated and the owners should be called upon by our Animal Controll Officiers to monitor the mistreatment of these horses monthly especially in the Summer months.
On September 25, 2007, Jill Snyder wrote:
Finally!It’s just a shame that it takes a horse to die for a ban to stop this cruelty to horses. I hope NYC is the first to end Horse-Drawn Carriage rides for good. If you want to go for a ride RIDE A BUS NOT HORSES!
On September 25, 2007, Belinda Johnson wrote:
I agree with a petition to keep horses off the streets of New York & anywhere else that they exist used by horse drawn buggies or otherwise.
On September 25, 2007, Eric wrote:
I agree with a petition to keep horses off the streets of New York & anywhere else that they exist used by horse drawn buggies or otherwise.
On September 25, 2007, Janice Bassett wrote:
Horse drawn carriges have no place in a major city full of traffic and congestion from too many vehicles. The horses are subjected to many pitfalls which will result in more deaths to these beautiful animals. They belong in green pstures where they can live out their lives in peace and serenity.
On September 25, 2007, Jacquelyn Sanders wrote:
Finally the horses have a chance at getting out of the horrors of being a carriage horse. It is a pretty name for a miserable existence. Thanks to all who are working so hard to better the lives of the horses and to make NYC have a heart for animals.
On September 25, 2007, Lauren wrote:
I think that horse drawn carriges should be banned in NYC as well as everywhere else. It is a horrible thing to do to horses, covering their eyes like that. They are so scared, and it’s just not right….
On September 25, 2007, Pat wrote:
Horse drawn carriages must be outlawed in the city. This is a practice that belonged in the early 1900s. This is the year 2007 and there are too many cars to frighten the poor horses. Look at how many people are run down by cars these days. The horses haven’t got a chance. The people that run these horse drawn carriages must find other work. I think this practice is cruel no matter what they say about taking good care of these horses, they’re not !!!!!!!!!
On September 25, 2007, Melody wrote:
I am so for getting rid of horse drawn carriage rides. I live in Texas and when in Galveston on the Strand, it is so hard to see those horses standing there in the heat. If you’ve never been to Southeast Texas, let me tell you…it is HOT
On top of that having to stand there all day and pulling people around in an already heavy carriage. Having owned horses, I know that horses are strong and capable of pulling things like that. However, why should they? They are one of the most beautiful creatures God made. They are grace in motion. They should be allowed that freedom.
On September 25, 2007, LOUIS wrote:
I SMELL A RAT IN ALL OF THIS, THIS THING WITH THE HORSE BEING SPOOKED MAY HAVE NOT BEEN A COINCIDENCE, BUT SOMETHING PLANNED, IF THE DRUMMER COULD NOT BE FOUND AFTER THIS HAPPENNED. AND HORSE CARRIAGES AROUND CENTRAL PARK IS SOMETHING ABOUT KEEPING THE PAST ALIVE IN THE CITY, CENTRAL PARK AND SURROUNDING AREAS ARE SOMETHING OF THE PAST, AND TO KEEP THAT PART ALIVE IS TRADITIONAL I BELIEVE.
[Blog editors’note: How about smelling a fact instead? New York City has the highest carriage accident rate in the country. Ninety-eight percent of the horses who were “spooked” became injured. To expect horses to serve as vehicles in any traffic is unreasonable. It’s a hazardous trade to all involved. Tradition isn’t everything and there are those worth ending.]
On September 25, 2007, Shirley Campbell wrote:
I lived in New York for a number of years and had the sorry of seeing 5 carriage horses die. Two on the same day in part I believe to being overworked and overheated on a plus 100 degree day in Central Park. One of the carriage drivers took a whip to his downed horse which died 10 minutes later. I have witnessed horses almost being hit my cabs on the 6th avenue entrance to the park. I truly believe these horses should NOT be in the city and working in such horrific conditions and horrific treatment by their drivers. I am all for a ban and the retirement of these beautiful animals to field of sweet green pastures.
On September 25, 2007, Jean wrote:
I think it’s terrible to be putting the horses in that kind of situation. Don’t be putting them in with that busy traffic it’s wrong. How can you do that to them ? It scares them . Horses aren’t meant to be in the city not for riding in a buggy or for policemen either. Leave these creatures alone.
On September 25, 2007, JoAnn Spilma wrote:
Cars shouldn’t be in NYC…. need I say more?
On September 25, 2007, Catherine wrote:
I just hope the horses do get to a green pasture and this is not a hoax and they end up being slaughtered, as they are too old and mistreated, most people forget to follow through to the end, see them to the pasture.
[Blog editors’ note: Friends of Animals will push for refuges for the horses. Remember that the sooner the business is discontinued, the sooner this downward spiral for horses from hand to hand and finally to slaughter will be interrupted. Don’t assume that all of these horses have been put into refuges by these carriage companies all along. You can bet that’s far from reality. The business must stop everywhere it occurs. Thank you for caring about this issue.]
On September 25, 2007, Eric wrote:
I understand the reason for a ban, but is there anyone out there that thinks the other way? I dont understand why it has taken so long if no one has a different opinion on the matter! (obviously the business owners would have different thoughts) so, why has it taken 50-75 years and thousands of animals abused for this issue to evolve? anyone…enlighten me please!
On September 26, 2007, evelyne rottiers wrote:
Horses should not be in the traffic of a city !
On September 26, 2007, Laurie Rozgonyi wrote:
Horses should not be used in a tourist attraction to perform at will. This is cruel/unusual punishment!
On September 26, 2007, Pamela Fahnestock wrote:
A long time inhabitant of the City, I now live in CT., but am still a frequent visitor to “The Big Town.” I still feel NYC the best place to shop. The stores around the East 50s area where those poor horses stand in the horrible heat of summer and through the freezing cold of winter, I now avoid.In my youth,I would bring apples and carrots to them, but was always met with, “Don’t go near those horses!” Now that I am older, I am ashamed to say that I simply avoid the area and the surrounding stores. How wonderful to learn that something might be done to help these poor animals. I will do anything in my power as an “out of towner” to help and heartily endorse any official or groups that can help eliminate the attrocities these poor horses suffer on a day to day basis.
On September 26, 2007, Becky Felhazy wrote:
I absolutely 100% agree.. especially the point being made it’s not that 1800s, we have cars. people have enough luxuries as is, we don’t need a pretty horse to make us look better. horses are beautiful and deserve their own luxuries… pulling our fat lazy butts sight-seeing is not one of them!
On September 26, 2007, Elyse Zucker wrote:
Horses are one of the most beautiful creatures on earth. They should be running in pastures not on the streets of New York.
Most New Yorkers find it appalling that carriage horses are
behind cars & trucks were there lungs are filled with fumes
Most of these horses are kept in inadequate stalls
On September 26, 2007, Nancy wrote:
I called Council Member Avella’s office to communicate my support for this important and necessary legislation, and was gratified that my message was warmly received. I’ve worked in Manhattan for many years now, and early on I had a sense of pity for these unfortunate horses. Even before their plight was well documented, before I considered myself an animal advocate, it was just so obvious that these noble animals were extremely stressed and unhappy. But I used to think that the City Fathers know what they’re doing, so the horses must be okay. Not so. Even the best treatment can’t create a proper environment for them in this situation. Entertainment and performing horses have been left out of the Industrial Revolution. Thanks to Friends of Animals for leading the way toward a better understanding of this issue.
On September 26, 2007, Margaret Fiore wrote:
“Why do those horses look so sad, Mommy?” My four year old and I were on our way to look at the windows at FAO Schwartz when my little girl noticed the horses. “The’re so skinny. Somebody should help them.” Well, Phoebe, maybe now, with many thanks to Mr. Avella, somebody will. Many many thanks to him and Friends of Animals for coming to the rescue.
On September 27, 2007, Rachel wrote:
I went to Charleston, SC and saw the horse drawn carriages. These horses pulled huge numbers of people. When I asked how many months a year these horses worked she said they only got one month off per year. I was outraged and heartbroken. Horse drawn carriages just aren’t necessary, we have cars, bikes, trollies, etc.. Why not instead build an animal sanctuary in places like Charleston and Central Park and have parents enjoy taking their children to see what it’s like to visit feed and love rescued animals instead.
On September 27, 2007, KIM SMITH wrote:
HOPEFULLY SOMEONE WILL SOON HELP WITH THIS SAME ANIMAL SLAVERY ISSUE THAT EXISTS TODAY IN NEW ORLEANS LOUISIANA.
On September 27, 2007, Samantha wrote:
This is Stuipd! Come on people, with out these jobs these horses would be in Slaughter houses!! Dead and killed! Witch is even more horriable!! Lots of horses enjoy doing their jobs! It is better that then being starved and treated like trash!
If you shut down these cariage tours, where will most of our poor horse go, THE SLAUGHTER HOUSE!! Then you kids will be where did the horses go? Oh they died by being shot cruely and ended up as dog food. If you want to stop something end slaughter houses!
I have seen what goes on in these companies, and i have not seen any horse abuse, the most i see is people being hired that dont really understand horses, as well as crappy farrier work.
These tours give many people, and horses jobs, with wichout they would struuggle.
Honsetly people think from both sides before you stop anything.
On September 28, 2007, Jennifer Torrence wrote:
The horses in NY are neglected, overworked, and completely out of their realm. We should do everything we can to get this banned. Together we can do just that!
On September 29, 2007, Giovanni Di Nardi wrote:
I strongly urge everyone who is compassionate to support Friends of Animals and Mr. Avella. We need more politicians like Mr. Avella to also step forward and address the multitude of other issues exploiting animals. They could start with the biggest offender…Hunting!
On September 29, 2007, Daniel Foa wrote:
Firstly, I love animals and I think many opinions given above are more whining complaints without any real solution.
Lets analyze:
Decision Ban Horses in NY
Result:
1. Horses must be sold, either to wealthy individuals (perhaps some people in FOA) who have the means to support them.
2. Sold to slaughter houses
3. Put down “humanely”
4. Another animal that we lose any real connection to.
We end up with another town without animal life. I eat meat and like most people I am detached from the process of getting it on the table. 2 days ago I was given live crabs as a gift, I cooked live crabs, I didn’t enjoy the process and their resistance to die, however, it did make me think more about the about of meat/animals I consume. Did any of you wonder why cows are called - beef, pigs called pork, sheep called mutton… It makes us feel better. At least Horse meat is still called Horse meat. Keep it real.
Alternatives?
1. Redesign horse carriages to be lighter weight and less strain on the horses
2. Consider rulings to allow them to operate outside of the busiest 2/3 hours in the day
Seems the horses will be banned. I think FOA should report on what happens to the horses and those in the carriage business. Is FOA going to help those get other jobs and the horse find homes?
On September 30, 2007, Jennifer wrote:
These beautiful creatures should not have to endure these conditions. I could see it in the park but not where they have to be around all the noise and cars! I am not sure if there are any rules in place keeping people from making them pull all day. That might be some good legislation to look at for the future.
On October 1, 2007, Edita Birnkrant wrote:
Hi Samantha,
What we’re trying to do is present another option for these horses besides the slaughterhouse or forced labor. You are correct that many of the horses in the industry will be sent to their deaths when they can no longer perform, or when they get ill or injured. Once the horse-drawn carriage industry in banned, we will take on the task of finding appropriate refuges for the horses that are currently working so that they can simply live out their lives being horses, not a means for someone’s paycheck.
This will stop the grim cycle of either being worked to death or being sent to their deaths for the new horses that would naturally replace the old ones. The human drivers of the carriages can surely be trained for different jobs, and our proposed legislation includes this request.
Perhaps you have never seen horse abuse with your own eyes, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not happening. The fact that the horses suffer from neglect and poor/dangerous working conditions was established by an audit performed by the NYC Comptroller’s office in June 2007. This is a matter of public record, as are the numerous horse deaths and accidents that have occurred on city streets.
Edita Birnkrant
NYC Campaign Coordinator
Friends of Animals
On October 2, 2007, Sandra Hohn wrote:
If these horses are being mistreated in any way then stop the rides, I was in tenn. and did a horse drawn carrige ride, the people there actically owned the horses and took very good care of them. If the horses are not made for the cold do seasonal rides,I love Gods creations and I pray the situation will be care for in the proper maner.
On October 2, 2007, Edita Birnkrant wrote:
Daniel, FoA is pressing both to end this commercial industry and ensure that the horses released from it would receive refuge for life at one of a number of U.S. sanctuaries. The cycle of use and slaughter is one that exists right now, in which horses are sent to their deaths once they cannot perform, and are replaced by a new horse. You are concerned about losing this “connection” with these horses, but we see it as clear exploitation, and something that doesn’t need to be modified, but stopped completely.
Daniel, we do not want another town “without animal life” but we appreciate seeing animals who are free to live their lives without being objects of commerce. Many species of urban wildlife do thrive in the city, and we should all be aware and respectful of their ability to do so.
You’re right about the detachment that allows people to continue to eat and use animals in various ways. We don’t need to kill crabs, cows, chickens or any animals in order to live and be healthy. We should oppose both the eating of animals and the use of them for commercial entertainment purposes in the streets of New York. We can have bustling vegetarian restaurants and a city that refuses to exploit horses — we need not pick one or the other.
You and other readers might wish to see our booklet called the Vegan Starter Guide. It’s filled with wonderful recipes, nutritional information and advice on how and why to switch to a vegan lifestyle. Check out the store section of our website to order a copy, or to print it out on your computer.
Edita
NYC Campaign Coordinator
Friends of Animals
On October 3, 2007, Ashley wrote:
No horse should have to live in NYC - They need to run and graze!
On October 3, 2007, Jess wrote:
I agree that all animals should be treated with dignity and respect. However, what will happen to all these retired carriage horses? If you look at statistics, you’ll find that there are just too many abandoned horses and no room for them to go. Also closing the slaughter houses in the U.S. (I don’t know if the bill passed or not)will create even more unwanted horses. I’m not for the slaughter or the abuse. I just wonder if these horses will in fact be going to greener pastures or just another crowded mud hole.
[Blog editors’ note: The hard reality is this: As long as horses are used and traded by human beings, they will wind up slaughtered by human beings. If not for human consumption, then as animal food. If not within the borders, then shipped over the borders. People seem to have an ideal of horses running across pastures owned by benevolent caregivers and one day gently dying in their sleep and being given a funeral. That’s an exaggeration, of course, but where exactly do people think old horses wind up? We seem to wish to believe we can continue to use their bodies yet free them from being consumed for commercial purposes in the end. The custom of horse ownership isn’t like that. We must stop the cycle. This is why Friends of Animals activists and writers consistently ask that the free-roaming horses of the west and the eastern coast of North America be respected. Only they are free from the spiral of use, changing hands, and ultimately slaughter. We have a far better chance of seeing that the horses freed from the New York carriage business have lifetime refuge than we have of seeing that the same horses receive that if they stay in the commerce cycle.]
On October 4, 2007, Jess wrote:
I didn’t get the impression that Daniel’s comment was about becoming vegan. We are omnivores, not foregut fermenters. I do agree that the way we house and produce meat is not in any way, shape, or form a humane or healthy means of producing these animals for consumption. But instead of eliminating meat consumption all together, we should be fighting for alternative ways of producing the same amount of food without sacrificing animal welfare or condemning a person’s choice to eat meat.
As for the horses in NY, it’s tradition and nothing more. Yet tradition should incorporate new paradigms evident in present day society like animal welfare. These horses are overworked and should not be hauling tourists in 100+ degree weather on cement roads; they just weren’t bred for that. They were, however, BRED FOR PULLING!! Just not in the conditions NYC and other areas provide. I say horray for Daniel for thinking about the consequences of pulling these horses off the streets.
On October 4, 2007, Lyss wrote:
Yes, Let’s ban this and then lets ban vehicles as well since they take sooo many animal and human lives every day, not to mention the effect it has on the environment - Keep on fighting for what really matters!
[Blog editors’ note: Certainly it is best to support public rail transport and discourage roadbuilding.There are many facets to the transport issue. The one we’re addressing here is specifically geared to ending the exploitation of horses — a major step forward.]
On October 5, 2007, Joanne Doherty wrote:
I feel the people who choose being a driver of these carriages as their career is a cheap shot at the horses expense and a lazy approach to making their way through life. The horses are at their mercy. Slavery was abolished and so should this be. This is mentally and physically abusive to the horses. When you decide to be the owner of an animal you accept the responsibility to care for and love it not to misuse,abuse or neglect it. We need to be their voice.
Joanne Doherty
Parlin, NJ
On October 5, 2007, Margaret Geisler wrote:
Why do we have to have an old fashion scene in a modern polluted city? Look around and see and hear all the noise and smell the fumes and see the hazy pollution. This is what that lovely horse has everyday, no fresh grass, cold water, shady trees and peaceful grazing. Don’t ride these carrages, write to the authorities speak up for these dear animals that cannot speak for themselves. God has made us keepers of his flock !!!! Stop turning your faces away from this sad state of the city horse. We will have to answer to God someday.
On October 7, 2007, Johanna wrote:
I agree, and I have personally looked into the eyes of these miserable horses and -and I will never employ a carrigae in NYC,or any other city,like Delray Beach,FL. which now thinks this is “cool” and allows same.To push this issue through you might want to mention the smell that permeates the air in central park.I also feel sorry for the hotel employees across the street from the carrige stands-inhaling that oder all day long! [PU] Wouldn’t this be a health issue for people also?!!!
On October 13, 2007, Bill wrote:
Why don’t your paid protesters become informed about your cause before they spread their so called “facts” about the horses & their care?
P.S. domesticated horses can not be set free in the wild, they would die. So will you be looking after the hundreds & thousands that are out there now? I bet not.
Come on people put your energy into saving people in Darfur.
[Blog editors’ note: Why do you assume our activists and our supporters (most of whom volunteer some or all of their time) are not putting energy into saving people in Darfur? Are you aware that at the base of the conflict is climate change, which is strongly related to animal domestication and consumption? Respect the time of others, please: Comment here only if you are, or wish to be, informed about serious matters, not just to let off steam.]
On October 15, 2007, Missy B. wrote:
Why can’t people find a way to earn money and make a living without the exploitation and cruelty to animals? Stores selling puppies, circus, dog racing, etc etc. Using and abusing those without a voice that can’t run away if they want to. They are prisoners being held captive for no crime.
…Free the animals from the torture of man. Free them from the slaughterhouses. Peace begins with us. We are supposed to be the role model setting the examples. Horse Drawn Carriages should be only known as a barbaric thing of the past. Let these poor horses live the remainder of their lives in peaceful pasture.
On October 16, 2007, Dez wrote:
Enough with the carriages! The owners should tie themselves up to the carts just for a day and see how miserable this must be for the horses! I hate the fact an animal with no other choice lost its life because people use them for entertainment. Walk or ride a bike.
On October 16, 2007, Christa Rachael wrote:
I don’t agree with completely banning all carriages, but I think there should be very tight restrictions. Not all horses are mistreated. I’ve seen horses pulling carriages that loved it and were treated wonderfully. However, I do agree that many are treated cruelly, and that should not be allowed.
On October 17, 2007, Heather S. wrote:
I really wonder whether those horses Christa mentions ‘love it’ or are rather just conditioned to it. If it were true that horses just naturally loved to pull carriages (or other things) then why don’t we see free-living (wild) horses attempting to pull things? I think it’s more likely the case that, as with other domesticated animals, the animals learn that if they perform a certain action for humans they will either get food or praise and/or avoid a whip or a slap.
On October 17, 2007, Robin S. wrote:
Can we please start the process of a ban in Philadelphia after the NYC ban is in place. I work in the Historic district in Philly and have to see this abuse every day. My 4 year old son just commented tonight on how sad the horses look. Just last week I saw a horse get whipped just for shifting his weight from one foot to another - I bet he was standing on that corner all day too. I felt like a small person having to walk past and witness that and not be able to do anything about it. Absolutely sick to my stomach over it.
On October 18, 2007, Elise wrote:
After observing Charleston, South Carolina’s horse drawn carraiges on a family vacation this is what i found…
* large over-sized carriages pulled by horses that were too aged for the job.
* horses standing on hot pavement in 95 degree weather for hours on end ( i couldnt even stand in that weather for hours and i dont have a fur coat ).
* after talking to a carraige driver he stated that the horses were “only” being driven for 6 HOURS A DAY (in 90 degree weather of course and no water in sight) !
* as i was eating dinner that same day most likely 8 hours or more later i looked out the window and saw the SAME old horse pulling the SAME carraige with the SAME driver. ( i was disgusted )
* the horses were all clearly miserable, head down and ears looking almost lifeless. it broke my heart to see such a sight. it was to the point where my mother and i seriously thought about devising a plan to get those horses away from all the pain and torture. (when we returned back to our home in massachusetts my mother and i complained to a group who said they would look into charleston’s horse drawn carraiges)
On October 24, 2007, leopardgirl wrote:
I agree that they should ban horse-drawn carriages. I feel really bad about Smoothie, the poor animal! :(
On November 9, 2007, Marie DeFreitas wrote:
Please save the Horses! It’s just heartwretching to see these beautiful animals being treated without respect. How can anyone with a brain feel that horses belong on the streets of New York City! We should all have compassion and let these ‘proud’ animals experience the love and freedom they deserve.
On November 26, 2007, Anita Gerami wrote:
As the owner of 25 NYC Carriage Horses in NYC,i feel these attempts made by some extreme activists,fall on deaf ears,as usual.Just go on any Weekend to Central Pk,and you will see hundreds of people on line to ride with our horses,obviously the general public loves our service.These activists had to go outside of Manhattan,to finally grab 1 council member who wants or needs media attention,to help their cause.The shame is,this person mever once visited a NYC stable,he is blindfully skating on what some misinformed activists are telling him! SHAME ON HIM ,cause these people have never been in our stables either,and have no clue what they are speaking about.The ASPCA ,Dept of Health and NY Police Dept,are regularly in our stables,and don’t have problems with what they see.
On November 27, 2007, Peter Kobel wrote:
Anita, as you well know, the city comptroller’s audit, issued in September, found serious problems with the horse-drawn vehicle industry’s oversight and its care of the horses—both on city streets and in the stables. Regulations have been on the books for decades, and they’ve been inadequately enforced, despite regular complaints. The oversight of the agencies you mention has been woefully lax.
The New York Horse and Carriage Association has belatedly called for hitching posts, water spigots and improved drainage for the horses’ waste. One has to wonder, if the association members love their horses as much as they claim, why it took a city audit for them to make these proposals. But more regulations and better enforcement do not equal respect. It’s past time to stop thinking of horses as vehicles.
Peter Kobel
Friends of Animals
On November 27, 2007, Jill Weitz wrote:
The major issue here is the fact that a 21st century traffic-congested city is no place for a live animal to pull a carriage from the 19th century. Period. The vehicles travel through midtown—to Times Square for example—with customers in some of the busiest areas of town. And they must compete with traffic going to the Lincoln Tunnel as they go back and forth to their stables, up to 2 miles away from Central Park.
We know that horses die and are injured on the streets as a result of this industry. We know that humans are seriously injured as a result of this industry. Is this acceptable? Advocates for a ban are saying “no.” What happens if there is a human death? Will the carriage horse industry still lobby the city council and mayor as incessantly as it does now to keep its business going?
The claim that only “extremists” support a ban is wishful thinking on the part of the carriage horse industry. The support for a ban has only grown since the death of Spotty, and has reached a tipping point. In a recent AMNY Poll, 1,612 people voted YES to ban hdc’s(95.6%) and 75 people (4.4%) voted NO. Hmm, they must all be extremists from outer boroughs…
For what purpose are we risking the lives of people and animals? Entertainment.
On December 5, 2007, Dee Charles wrote:
If you are going to stop horse and carriages in NYC then you really have to stop horse racing and horse jumping. These are sports which if you know anything about a horse are far worse than walking pulling a carriage. Horses have more injuries through racing and jumping over 6ft. fences knocking there knees, breaking there legs, landing on two legs with someone on their back weighing 200lbs, and all for sport. Or for the money that they are making if they win a race. Let’s get real, the number of horses that race that get injured is astronomical. No one says ban these or equestrian jumping!
FoA comments:
Friends of Animals works for and supports the elimination of all animal exploitation including horse racing, jumping and even “pleasure riding”. Unfortunately, it is not possible to eliminate all such exploitation at the same time. Right now there is an opportunity to eliminate horse carriages in NYC. Please support this effort.
On December 9, 2007, Anita Lewellyn wrote:
I do not live in New York City but I believe banning the horse drawn carriages is not the answer. The answer should be regulating standards that the owners must go by that is fair to the animal and the owner. I believe our government bans things because of the pressure placed upon them by groups that lobby their causes, but that in doing so is taking away rights that our constitution has guarranteed us to have. Sorry but I’m tired of lobbying groups dictating what is right or wrong in this country. The wrong is that the lawmakers are listening to them and not the people as a whole.
[Blog editors’ note: Regulation is also lawmaking. When our Constitution was put together, people could own other people and make them work in the fields. Not everything permitted in prior centuries is ethically acceptable today. Legal thought evolves.]
On December 14, 2007, Karin M wrote:
The practice is simply inhumane, and horses in NYC are treated horribly, and it is time to ban carriage horses in New York City. “Band-Aid” approaches and “self-regulation” by this greedy and corrupt industry will not make it safer or more humane. Not only is it disgusting and a blight on New York City, but it presents real public safety risks. End it now. New York City looks extremely foolish right now.
THANK YOU, Councilman Avella!!!
On February 2, 2008, Eric Salsburg wrote:
I applaud the movement to ban horse drawn carriages in NYC. I live in Philadelphia and have long wanted to see the end of the carriages in Philadelphia as well. Is there any movement or discussion to raising a similar bill to ban horse drawn carriages in Philadelphia?
[Blog editors’ note: Thanks for the cheer and applause. There’s no such move yet in Philadelphia but momentum in New York City will spirit similiar campaigns in other cities. It’s unique to find a legislator bold enough to sponsor a bill with an outright prohibition, and in New York City, the ASPCA dragged its feet on supporting such a measure for decades.]
On February 2, 2008, Emmy wrote:
Just because something is considered tradition doesn’t mean we should continue with it… Especially when a living, breathing, beautiful creature’s quality of life is at stake… ‘Working’ out of their element, breathing in horrible exhaust fumes- all of which we have created- they all deserve sunny pastures (which I wish we could all have-) with plenty of grass and fresh air, water, and food-… I believe that if we were to start respecting each and every incredible element of nature, this world couldn’t help but be a (more)wonderful place to inhabit~ WE ARE ALL ONE PEOPLE.?.?.—-WE ARE ALL ONE- from a single blade of grass to the most magnificent animal you can think of…
On January 19, 2009, David wrote:
I’m sorry, horses are important and should be treated well, but like any other part of society they need to contribute. If a driver/owner keeps a cart horse healthy and well, why shouldn’t he expect to have it earn its keep? It is a living being and should be respected, but if someone is going to pay for its upkeep, shouldn’t he get something back?
On January 19, 2009, Dave Shishkoff wrote:
Hi David, thanks for writing.
Considering that horses do not choose to be a part of our society — we compel or coerce them to perform for us — why would they be expected to ‘earn their keep’?
Your argument is not unlike one we would have heard not so long ago about about human slaves. That same mentality persists, except that it is much more difficult for a horse to argue against an oppressor, which is where we come in.
We can imagine a much better life for horses, where they get to live on their own terms. I hope you can join us in making this vision a reality.
On June 4, 2009, John Lester wrote:
Apparently none of you really know much about the horse and carriage community. You demonstrate your love and compassion by trying to save animals who don’t need saving. That makes you good because the carriage community, of course, is evil. This need is most often the result of an inaility to form or sustain meaningfull relationships with members of one’s own species perfering instead the unquestioning commitment an animal offers.I’m sure some of you are well-meaning; work on human suffering, make some sort of connection with someone other than the unfortunates in this group, and try not to confuse animal use with abuse.
FoA comments:
“Apparently” you are a psychiatrist, philosopher and sociologist wrapped into one, but not a very good one.
Friends of Animals is against the exploitation of animals. Given that the “carriage community” exists to exploit animals for its economic gain, Friends of Animals opposes it. The “unfortunates in this group” are the horses.