This letter is so full of concern and compassion. the facts are so clear. I am hoping the people that have control over this situation are reading and listening to the people that care about the horses. Are they listening?
I have just also read a letter that was in the tribune last year regarding the surrey horse situation. Thousands of people signed a petition. Hundreds of people wrote well thought out comments regarding the neglect of the horses that they witnessed first hand. It is blatantly obvious that this industry should end. Bahamas, you CAN lead the way in showing the world that change is possible regarding how horses are treated. Why don't you allow these poor horses to retire. Every night that you go to sleep, these horses, with all their pain from untreated feet, teeth, and sores on their bodies from ill fitting harnesses, must try to rest on hard surfaces. No soft dry shavings to rest on. Do they go to rest with full stomachs and cool water to drink? Do they even get water to drink when they work all day? I have read many witnesses accounts that horses are seen working during hours that are designated as rest hours because of the heat. There are numerous videos on youtube that show these horses in distress.
Who is in charge of overseeing all this?
People do not come to the Bahamas to ride in a Surrey cart behind a neglected horse. The surrey industry is an afterthought. As are, obviously...the horses that pull them. Please, Bahamas, end this.