Every year, tens of thousands of horses, both young and old,  are painfully sored, fitted with cruel "stacks," and forced to participate in something that brings them continual suffering - "Big Lick" riding. This inhumane practice goes against the nature and well-being of these magnificent animals, subjecting them to an unnatural and high-stepping gait for entertainment.

According to the Humane Society, evidence-based research shows that "Big Lick” riding is abusive to horses. They found that soring - the intentional infliction of pain to hooves and legs of horses - is rampant in this show circuit (The Humane Society, 2020). Additionally, soring often leads to other physical harms and stress-related health issues, leading to a lesser quality of life and, in some cases, premature death.

In addition to soring, horses in the "Big Lick" industry often withstand the abomination that is gingering. Gingering involves using an irritant, such as raw ginger, ginger oil, or cayenne pepper to force the equine to hold their tail in a painful and unnatural position. The irritant is placed into the anus or vagina of the animal and results in stinging, allergic reactions, painful bumps, rashes, and even tears in the skin or internally, and has the capacity to kill a horse. 

Thirdly, "Big Lick" horses also suffer due to their "stacks" or massive shoes attached to their hooves. Normal horse shoes are relatively thin and attached with short nails into the hoof. Because horse hooves are made of the same material as human fingernails (keratin,) this causes no pain and often helps them move more comfortably and reduce injury. However, the nails in "Big Lick" shoes are up to four times as long, meaning they go into the horses sensitive lower leg. Every step and second on their feet is excruciatingly painful for these poor animals, as the suffer through the feeling of dozens of knife like objects cruelly inserted into their bodies.

By promoting, or merely tolerating, "Big Lick" riding, we send a message that animal cruelty and exploitation are permissible for entertainment’s sake. This is fundamentally wrong, and in direct opposition to everything we stand for as a nation that values justice and respect for all beings. It's high time we abolish this practice on a national level.

Please stand with me and the tens of thousands of horses subjected to this cruel practice every year. Let's end the suffering and create a safer, more compassionate world for all animals. With enough support, we can bring this petition to the attention of the Tennesee Walking Horse Breeders & Exhibitors Assoctiation (TWHBEA) in hopes of closing down the "Big Lick" show ring once and for all. Thank you for your support!