During my holiday in Krakow, Poland, I've witnessed a distressing scene that repeats itself daily. Horses are made to pull carriages around the city non-stop, under the scorching sun. It is glaringly evident that these animals are subjected to overwork without any noticeable sign of rest, adequate food, or sufficient water. As someone deeply concerned for animal welfare, seeing these magnificent creatures endure such harsh conditions breaks my heart.

The picturesque sight of horse-drawn carriages may come across as quaint and romantic, but the reality for the horses is far from idyllic. The summer temperatures can soar, putting immense physical strain on the animals pulling the heavy carriages. Fatigue, dehydration, heatstroke, and long-lasting injuries become a part of their daily lives just for entertainment purposes.

In regions where temperatures can become exceedingly high, special care and consideration for working animals should be mandatory. This includes providing adequate rest periods, ensuring constant access to water, and restricting working hours to cooler parts of the day. There is a need for strict enforcement of animal welfare regulations and implementation of shade structures along carriage routes, designed explicitly to protect these animals from extreme weather.

Existing studies and expert opinions reveal that prolonged exposure to heat and strenuous activities severely affect horses. According to The Humane Society International, horses have a natural body temperature higher than humans, putting them at significant risk when subjected to intense periods of work during soaring temperatures. Additionally, many countries, like Greece and Spain, have begun re-evaluating the regulations surrounding horse carriage rides to improve animal welfare.

To protect these noble creatures, we demand that local authorities implement restrictions on horse carriage rides in extreme heat, enforce comprehensive health assessments for working horses, and hold accountable those who exploit these animals unjustly.

Please sign this petition to help end the exploitation of horses in hot weather conditions and bring about more humane practices for these hard-working animals. Together, our voices can advocate for change and inspire a future where animal welfare is prioritized over outdated traditions.