https://hudson.quebec/en/evenements/hudson-easter-party-saturday-april-4th/​

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Living near Hudson, Quebec, I have always admired our town's stand on progressive animal laws. It's a community that cares for its living creatures and respects the environment. Nonetheless, there's an unsettling tradition that doesn't align with our values: the use of live ponies in the Easter Party carousel.  https://fermequinchien.com/

These ponies are forced to walk in endless circles under the guise of entertainment. While the event aims to bring joy and festivities, it does so at the expense of innocent animals. Imagine being bound and made to perform the same repetitive motion for two hours, all for the amusement of others. This is not entertainment—it's exploitation.

Ponies are sentient beings with the capacity for pain, stress, and boredom. Scientific research and veterinary insights confirm that such conditions can harm both their physical and psychological well-being. Our animals deserve better. The stress inflicted upon them during such events undermines the ethical conduct we pride ourselves on in Hudson. 

The farm claims to be a sanctuary, but it’s not.  

Key Red Flags of a Pseudo-Sanctuary:
Forced Interaction: Allowing visitors to touch, feed, pet, or take selfies with. animals (especially baby animals).
Breeding: Breeding animal to attract visitors, rather than rescuing animals in need.
Exploitation: Using animals for entertainment, such as circus tricks, shows, or transporting them to off-site events.
Poor Housing: Keeping animals in small, barren, or concrete cages/enclosures without proper enrichment.
No Accreditation: Lacking accreditation from respected organizations like the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS).
Constant Baby Animals: A consistent presence of infants suggests breeding, not rescue, as true sanctuaries rarely have babies.  
Signs of a Legitimate Sanctuary:
No Public Contact: Strict "no-touch" policies for wild animals.
Natural Habitats: Large, comfortable, and stimulating enclosures designed for the species' wellbeing.
Reputation: Proper accreditation and transparency regarding animal care and finances.
No Commercialization: They do not sell animals or use them for profit-driven commercial activities. 

There's a simple and compassionate alternative: switch to using wooden ponies on an artificial carousel. This option promises the same level of fun and enjoyment without any negative consequences for living creatures. It's a sustainable, kinder, and more modern approach to preserving tradition while upholding our community's values.

Banning the use of live horses for entertainment in Hudson isn't just the right thing to do—it's necessary to demonstrate that our commitment to animal welfare is genuine and unwavering. Progress begins with us. Join me in urging the Hudson Town Council to make this vital change. Sign this petition to ensure that future celebrations involve compassion, respect, and innovation.