On a peaceful afternoon in Frankenmuth, Michigan, a beloved rescue horse named Ruby collapsed and died while pulling a carriage across the town’s covered bridge. Her sudden death shocked onlookers and devastated the carriage company that had cared for her. Ruby had already endured trauma in her earlier life—rescued from a kill pen and slowly rehabilitated with patience and love. Yet despite her second chance, she spent her final moments in harness, working on pavement, surrounded by cars and noise.

No matter how caring an owner may be, horses are not machines. They are sentient beings with limits—limits that are often tested by the demands of pulling tourists through busy streets. Even well-treated horses like Ruby are still at risk when forced to navigate unpredictable traffic, hard concrete, and extreme weather for the sake of entertainment.

Frankenmuth prides itself on being a charming and humane destination. But forcing horses to labor in these conditions is not consistent with that spirit. Dozens of cities across the U.S.—from Salt Lake City to Chicago—have already banned horse-drawn carriages due to growing concerns about animal welfare and public safety. It’s time for Frankenmuth to follow suit.

We call on the Frankenmuth City Council to pass an ordinance banning the operation of horse-drawn carriages within city limits. Tourism can thrive without animal labor—and Ruby’s tragic death is a wake-up call we cannot ignore.

Let’s honor Ruby by making sure no other horse has to suffer for the sake of a photo op.