Horse named Lady collapses and dies on Manhattan street.
A horse that was part of New York City’s carriage industry collapsed and died on a Manhattan street Tuesday afternoon, an incident that has sparked renewed debate about the use of horses for tourism in the city. The 15-year-old horse, identified as “Lady,” was reportedly on her way from Central Park to her stable when she collapsed around 2:28 PM at the intersection of West 51st Street and 11th Avenue in Hell’s Kitchen.
Upon arrival, officials found Lady unresponsive on the ground. She was transported to Clinton Park Stables, which is located just a block away from the site of the incident. Christina Hansen, a shop steward for Transport Workers Union Local 100, stated that Lady had recently begun her work as a carriage horse, having arrived at the stable in June. A comprehensive physical examination conducted at that time reportedly showed no abnormalities.
The horse, under the care of Clinton Park Stables, has drawn the attention of the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which has been notified of the incident. Authorities have indicated that a necropsy—the animal equivalent of an autopsy—is expected to determine the cause of Lady’s sudden death.
The incident recalls a previous case in August 2022 when another horse, Ryder, collapsed on West 45th Street, leading to legal actions against carriage driver Ian Mckeever, who was later acquitted of charges related to animal cruelty. Following Ryder’s collapse, some city officials pushed for a ban on the carriage horse industry in response to growing concerns over the welfare of these animals.
State Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal commented that Lady’s death highlights the urgent need to reassess the use of horse carriages in New York City. Advocates for animal rights have been vocal in their opposition to the practice, arguing that the working conditions pose significant risks to the health and safety of the horses.
In light of Lady’s tragic death, organizations such as People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and New Yorkers for Clean, Livable, and Safe Streets (NYCLASS) are planning a rally outside Clinton Park Stables on Wednesday to advocate for a ban on the practice. NYCLASS Executive Director Edita Birnkrant criticized city officials, asserting that the conditions faced by carriage horses are inhumane and calling for immediate action to prevent further suffering.
The ongoing debates about the carriage horse industry reflect broader concerns regarding animal welfare and the ethical implications of utilizing animals for entertainment and tourism in urban environments. As the community grapples with this issue, the fate of the carriage horse industry in New York City hangs in the balance. Media News Source.
