Whether you live in an area where horse drawn carriage industries exist, or
just a traveler to one of these cities, there are several things you can do to
help the horses:
1. Do not take carriage rides – and tell your friends and family to do the same.
2. Educate people about this issue. There is a lot of information on this web
site and other sites (see links) – share it with friends and family.
3. Familiarize yourself with the existing legislation that regulates this
industry –i.e. learn how many people are allowed to ride in a carriage; what
streets horse carriages are restricted to – and for which days and hours; the
temperatures at which the horses are allowed to work.
4. Report any obvious violations, any acts of animal cruelty, and accidents if
you are a witness. Also contact the ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement Department or
e-mail them at [email protected].
Provide the time the incident occurred; the location; carriage license (at rear
of carriage); description of the horse. If you speak with someone, get their
name and ask for a report as to how the incident was resolved. If you leave a
message on their voice mail; leave your contact information and ask for a call
back.
5. Write letters to the editor of local newspapers and other media resources.
6. Contact your legislators: city council members, and state and national
representatives.
7. Request pedicabs as an alternative to horse drawn carriages.
8. Donate to reputable non-profit organizations working to ban horse drawn
carriages, and/or reputable horse rescue groups and/or sanctuaries. (See
links for recommended organizations.)
9. Learn more about educational outreach by reviewing our Animal Rights Activism
Section.
10. Tell the New York ASPCA to protect carriage horses.
11. Simple action:
This was suggested by an activist:
"When I walk by the carriages, I give them a very evident ‘thumbs down’
which seems to get them very upset! Maybe that could be an interesting ad
campaign...if hundreds of people give a thumbs down when they see them,
could send a strong message"
We think this is a great idea. SIMPLE! All you have to do when you pass by a
horse-drawn carriage is to give them (the driver and passengers) a THUMBS
DOWN. No words need be spoken.
Return to: Stop Horse Drawn Carriages
Return to: Campaigns