I live on the route where horse-drawn carriages are a common sight. Every day, I witness these majestic creatures suffering under harsh conditions. Just this week, one of them collapsed in extreme pain right before my eyes - a sight that is both heartbreaking and infuriating.

These horses are forced to pull heavy carriages on hot pavement, often under the scorching Atlanta sun. Their health and wellbeing are clearly compromised for the amusement of tourists. This is not entertainment; it's cruelty.

According to American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), horses should not be made to work in temperatures above 90°F with humidity at or above 40%. Yet, these guidelines are frequently ignored here in Atlanta where summer temperatures regularly exceed this limit.

This practice is not only unethical but also unnecessary as there exist numerous alternative modes of transport that do not involve animal exploitation.

We urge our local government officials and tourism industry leaders to put an end to this outdated and cruel practice immediately. We demand stricter regulations protecting these animals from overwork and heat stress, if not a complete ban on horse-drawn carriages for tourist entertainment purposes.

Please join us in standing up against animal cruelty by signing this petition today!