As a dog owner, I find myself dealing with disrespectful and dangerous conditions daily. My locality is peppered with large piles of horse manure, obstructing footpaths. These are footpaths meant for people, not bridleways. I question why I am obligated to pick after my three small dogs and discard their waste responsibly when horse owners don't seem to face the same obligations.

Horses on our beaches, such as the seafront in Blackpool, are required to wear nappies to prevent the spread of manure. If it is critical in a place like a beach – why isn't it the same on our footpaths and public roads that see a lot more horse traffic? It goes beyond mere discomfort; horse manure possesses a safety risk, potentially causing slips or falls.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has reported that falls, slips, and trips account for most non-fatal accidents in the UK (RoSPA, 2022). I can't help but wonder how many of these could tie back to an untimely encounter with horse manure on public paths.

By enforcing mandatory nappy use for horses in the public, we rid these hazards, making our roads and footpaths safer, cleaner, and more inclusive spaces for everyone to use. It is not about curbing horse-riding; it's about ensuring our shared spaces work for all of us. Horses on public roads and footpaths wearing nappies is a small change with a huge impact.

Help bring change that positively impacts our community and environment – sign this petition to demand mandatory nappy use for all horses on public roads and footpaths.