Petition to Ban Horse-Drawn Carriages in New York City and Pass Ryder’s Law (Int. No. 967)

Recent signers:
Kirsteen Crouch and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

To: Mayor Eric Adams, Members of the New York City Council, and the Department of Transportation

We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned about the continued exploitation and mistreatment of horses used for carriage rides in New York City. The recent tragic accident on December 6 at 10th Avenue and 55th Street, where a horse-drawn carriage collided with a car, is yet another grim reminder of the dangers and cruelty these animals endure daily. While we await updates on the horse’s condition, this incident underscores the urgent need for change.

Horses are prey animals with an instinctive flight response to fear. The bustling, noisy streets of New York City are no place for them. Surrounded by traffic, sirens, and chaos, they are frequently startled, putting themselves, their passengers, and the public at risk. These accidents are not isolated—they are a systemic issue rooted in forcing horses to work in an environment inherently unsuitable and dangerous for them.

We cannot forget Ryder, the elderly horse whose collapse in the summer of 2022 shocked the city. Ryder was visibly malnourished and overworked, and his tragic death highlighted the cruelty inherent in this industry. Despite public outcry, little has changed. Every day, these horses are forced to pull heavy carriages through extreme weather conditions, subjected to inadequate living conditions, and denied the rest and care they deserve.

In response to Ryder’s case, Int. No. 967, known as Ryder’s Law, was introduced to phase out horse-drawn carriages and replace them with modern, sustainable electric carriages. This legislation is a compassionate and practical solution that ensures the welfare of the animals while maintaining the charm and tradition tourists and residents enjoy.

We urge you to act now to:

1. Pass Ryder’s Law (Int. No. 967) to ban horse-drawn carriages in New York City and replace them with cruelty-free electric carriages.


2. Ensure the safe retirement and proper care of the horses currently in service.


3. Promote sustainable, humane alternatives that protect both animals and the public.

 

New York City has the opportunity to lead with compassion and modernity by ending this archaic and inhumane practice. We call on you to act swiftly to prevent further suffering and tragedy.

Sincerely,
Justice for Ryder
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1,566

Recent signers:
Kirsteen Crouch and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

To: Mayor Eric Adams, Members of the New York City Council, and the Department of Transportation

We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned about the continued exploitation and mistreatment of horses used for carriage rides in New York City. The recent tragic accident on December 6 at 10th Avenue and 55th Street, where a horse-drawn carriage collided with a car, is yet another grim reminder of the dangers and cruelty these animals endure daily. While we await updates on the horse’s condition, this incident underscores the urgent need for change.

Horses are prey animals with an instinctive flight response to fear. The bustling, noisy streets of New York City are no place for them. Surrounded by traffic, sirens, and chaos, they are frequently startled, putting themselves, their passengers, and the public at risk. These accidents are not isolated—they are a systemic issue rooted in forcing horses to work in an environment inherently unsuitable and dangerous for them.

We cannot forget Ryder, the elderly horse whose collapse in the summer of 2022 shocked the city. Ryder was visibly malnourished and overworked, and his tragic death highlighted the cruelty inherent in this industry. Despite public outcry, little has changed. Every day, these horses are forced to pull heavy carriages through extreme weather conditions, subjected to inadequate living conditions, and denied the rest and care they deserve.

In response to Ryder’s case, Int. No. 967, known as Ryder’s Law, was introduced to phase out horse-drawn carriages and replace them with modern, sustainable electric carriages. This legislation is a compassionate and practical solution that ensures the welfare of the animals while maintaining the charm and tradition tourists and residents enjoy.

We urge you to act now to:

1. Pass Ryder’s Law (Int. No. 967) to ban horse-drawn carriages in New York City and replace them with cruelty-free electric carriages.


2. Ensure the safe retirement and proper care of the horses currently in service.


3. Promote sustainable, humane alternatives that protect both animals and the public.

 

New York City has the opportunity to lead with compassion and modernity by ending this archaic and inhumane practice. We call on you to act swiftly to prevent further suffering and tragedy.

Sincerely,
Justice for Ryder
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