14/06/2021

The President of the horse protection association, Sonny Richichi: ‘Horses do not bolt, they react to negative stimuli or fear’

‘This afternoon a horse - used in the historic centre of Florence to pull tourist carriages - ran into two cars, one of which belongs to the Minister of the Interior, Luciana Lamorgese.  The accident, which fortunately did not lead to injuries, highlights the conditions under which these animals are used. Carriages are a form of exploitation that is no longer acceptable in 2021.  The health of animals must also be taken into account.  Because horses do not bolt, they react to negative stimuli or fear in the way that is most natural to them: escape.’ This is how Sonny Richichi, president of IHP, the first Italian association for the protection of horses, puts it. 

‘We cannot blame horses for such episodes, this would mean not understanding or living in ignorance of their ethological needs. ‘Carriages force horses into an unnecessary hard labour, in a totally inappropriate and urban environment that is also dangerous for them.  As a civilised and mature society, let’s place the protection of animals at the forefront of public awareness, and shift away from these practices.’

LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW WITH SONNY RICHICHI ON RADIO LADY

VIDEO - Florence, 14 June 2021:

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