Carriage driver Ian McKeever was acquitted of animal cruelty charges after his horse, Ryder, collapsed on a hot day in August 2022. Prosecutors claimed McKeever continued to drive Ryder despite clear signs of distress, while McKeever's attorney stated the horse was well cared for and fell due to tripping. Animal activists argued against the use of horses in busy traffic, citing previous incidents of collapse. Supporters of the carriage industry assert it contributes to NYC's tourist economy and saves horses from slaughter.
Prosecutors claimed McKeever chose to continue working Ryder despite clear signs of the horse struggling, with the animal later collapsing due to exhaustion on a hot day.
McKeever's attorney argued that Ryder was well cared for and that the horse's fall resulted from a trip, not from overwork or heat exhaustion.
Animal advocates argue that navigating busy city traffic is inhumane for horses, citing other incidents where horses have collapsed or suffered while working.
Supporters contend that horse-drawn carriages are a vital part of New York’s charm, providing jobs and saving many horses from slaughter.
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