VICTORIA — A ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the Victorian-era neighbourhoods of British Columbia's capital city is a time honoured tourist draw, but an animal rights group wants the businesses hobbled.
Jordan Reichert, of the Victoria Horse Alliance, says the group will present its case to Victoria city council on Thursday.
He says most people know it's no longer ethical to hire the carriages, pulled by what critics allege are tired and poorly-treated horses.
According to Reichert, it's only a matter of time before horse carriages are banned from Victoria's streets.
Opponents of the rides have launched a petition to ban them, and have also sent city officials what they say is evidence of improper foot care, irresponsible operation of the carriages, and concerns for public safety.
Reichert is hopeful Victoria councillors will review his group's reports and vote against renewal of any horse carriage permits.
