As a Texan who grew up on a farm with free-ranging horses, I now find myself living in the heart of Savannah, Georgia. Every day, I witness an unnecessary and outdated practice that not only disrupts city life but also subjects innocent animals to undue hardship. This is the practice of carriage horse riding in downtown Savannah.

These beautiful creatures are made to carry people around under the harsh Georgia sun all day long. It's not just about animal rights; it's about practicality too. We live in 2024 where automobiles are readily available, making this antiquated mode of transportation redundant.

Moreover, these horse-drawn carriages contribute to traffic congestion in our already compact downtown area. The majority of their patrons are overweighted individuals and could easily walk or use modern transportation methods instead of resorting to exploiting these innocent animals as if we're still living in the 1800s.

It's time for us to evolve and adapt more humane practices that align with our current times while preserving the charm and character of our beloved city. Banning carriage horses would not negatively impact Savannah's economy as there are numerous other ways we can generate revenue without compromising on ethics or causing inconvenience.

Let us come together as responsible citizens who care for all inhabitants of our city - humans and animals alike - by putting an end to carriage horse rides in downtown Savannah. Please sign this petition today!