The Adams administration has confirmed the death of a carriage horse named Blackjack in a Midtown stable. The circumstances surrounding the horse’s demise have raised concerns, prompting calls for a thorough and transparent investigation. Animal advocacy group NYCLASS has stepped forward to demand answers, shedding light on the dire conditions that many carriage horses in New York City are subjected to.
According to city officials, Blackjack’s death was attributed to colic, a painful condition that is often preventable with proper care. The Department of Health’s contracted veterinarian was on-site at the stable, which in itself is a rare occurrence. Colic, often caused by an inadequate diet and lack of basic veterinary care, was noted as the cause of death. This revelation directly contradicts previous claims made by NYC horse owner representative Christina Hansen, who had dismissed the possibility of horses suffering from colic. The unfortunate truth is that colic is listed as a common cause of death among NYC carriage horses, revealing a disturbing disconnect between rhetoric and reality.
NYCLASS, a dedicated advocate for animal welfare, is insisting on a necropsy to unravel the true circumstances surrounding Blackjack’s death. A necropsy could provide valuable insights into the horse’s condition and potentially uncover any signs of neglect or mistreatment. This call for transparency is not only for the sake of one horse but also for the broader awareness of the conditions that carriage horses endure daily.
The tragic incident brings to the forefront a disturbing trend of neglect and abuse within the carriage horse industry. Just a year ago, the world witnessed the distressing collapse of a horse named Ryder, captured on video as the horse’s owner brutally yanked and beat him in a desperate attempt to make him stand. This incident garnered global attention, igniting a demand for change. People from all corners of the globe united in their plea for a shift towards cruelty-free and safer alternatives, such as electric carriages.
Despite the outcry and the shocking evidence, New York City Council and Speaker Adrienne Adams have failed to take substantive action to protect these animals from further exploitation. NYCLASS, alongside other concerned individuals and organizations, has continued to document instances of cruelty and mistreatment within the carriage horse industry. The tragic death of Blackjack serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need for reform.
Sign this petition to urge NYC to end the use of carriage horses.

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Animal “welfare” isn’t enough. Not funded or not enforced.