I recently witnessed a distressing scene in the French Quarter of New Orleans. While enjoying a day out, I saw one of the mules from Royal Carriages struggling to stay upright. He was visibly exhausted and close to collapse, yet he was forced to stand in the sun for over three more hours, without any access to water or rest. This heart-wrenching experience left me deeply concerned about the welfare of the animals subjected to these carriage rides.

New Orleans is renowned for its iconic carriage rides, a tradition cherished by locals and tourists alike. However, beneath the charm lies a serious animal welfare issue. Many of these animals endure harsh conditions, pulling heavy carriages in extreme weather, with limited breaks and inadequate care. I propose banning carriage rides altogether. Clearly these animals will end up being mistreated in one way or another.

It's imperative that we take immediate action to protect these animals. We propose following in the footsteps of other cities, such as New York and Charleston. They have already established stringent guidelines for carriage rides, focusing on animal protection without compromising on tourism. I’m 2028 there is legislation being set to phase them out. These cities serve as benchmarks for how we can balance tradition with compassion.

If we are unable to get a full ban, there needs to be a transparent monitoring system in place to enforce strict regulations effectively. Employing independent inspectors will ensure adherence and provide accountability.

Together, we can protect these creatures and ensure that no animal suffers for our entertainment. I urge you to sign this petition and demand that the New Orleans city council either ban carriage rides altogether or at least adopts these necessary regulations. Let us work towards a future where joy doesn't come at the expense of an animal's suffering. Your support can make a vital difference. Please sign and share this petition to give a voice to the voiceless.