Having been around horses all my life, I deeply understand their sensitivity and kindness. These majestic creatures should never be subjected to the harsh and tumultuous environments of riots, crowd controls, football matches, and protest marches. The fear and distress they experience in such situations is palpable. Imagine the blaring noise, unfurling smoke, and turbulent crowd—a nightmare for any animal, especially horses.

For policing purposes, horses are often equipped with perspex shields to protect their eyes. Yet, no amount of equipment can insulate them from the mental and physical stress endured. The simple truth is: these environments are not suitable for horses. It breaks my heart each time I witness them in these roles, trembling with fear and confusion amid chaos.

In today's world, the necessity of horses for police work is outdated. We possess a myriad of technological advancements and vehicles designed for such tasks, rendering it unnecessary—and, quite frankly, inhumane—to continue leveraging horses in this way.

Instead of horses, police forces should invest in vehicles and other means that ensure safety and efficiency without compromising animal welfare. Using modern technology can not only enhance the efficacy of police work but also align with our ethical responsibility towards protecting innocent animals from undue harm.

By transitioning away from horses, we make a strong statement that we value and respect all life forms, big and small. Let us pave the way for a more compassionate and forward-thinking solution to policing, one that excludes the use of horses.

I invite you to join me in advocating for the end of this unnecessary practice. Together, we can make a difference for these gentle creatures who cannot voice their fears. Please sign the petition to urge the UK government and police authorities to stop using horses in police work. Let's protect these majestic animals from environments they should never endure. Sign the petition today to make this change happen.