There are many horses living in New York City (NYC). The city is home to a diverse population of horses, from horses used for carriage rides in Central Park to horses used in the city’s mounted police force. This article will explore the different types of horses living in NYC, how many of them there are, and where they are located. We will also discuss the care and welfare of these animals, as well as the regulations in place to protect them.
Types of Horses in NYC
The horses living in NYC come from a variety of backgrounds and are used in a variety of ways. The most common types of horses are:
- Carriage Horses: These horses are used to pull carriages in Central Park and around the city. They are trained to be docile and reliable, and are typically larger breeds such as draft horses, Percherons, and Belgians.
- Mounted Police Horses: These horses are used by the NYPD’s mounted police force. They are typically smaller breeds such as Thoroughbreds and Arabians, and are trained to be obedient and responsive.
- Therapeutic Horses: These horses are used in therapeutic programs for children and adults with disabilities. They are typically calm and gentle, and are usually smaller breeds such as ponies or miniature horses.
- Racehorses: These horses are used in the many racetracks around the city, such as Aqueduct Racetrack and Belmont Park. They are typically Thoroughbreds, and are bred and trained for speed and agility.
- Show Horses: These horses are used in horse shows and competitions, such as dressage and jumping. They are usually larger breeds such as Warmbloods, and are trained for agility and grace.
How Many Horses Live in NYC?
It’s difficult to say exactly how many horses live in NYC, as the number is constantly fluctuating. However, it’s estimated that there are around 2,000 horses in the city. This includes horses used for carriage rides, the mounted police force, therapeutic programs, racetracks, and horse shows.
Where Are the Horses Located?
The majority of horses in NYC are located in the outer boroughs, such as Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. These areas are home to many of the city’s carriage companies, racetracks, and therapeutic programs. The horses used by the NYPD’s mounted police force are located at the NYPD’s stables in the Bronx.
Care and Welfare
The care and welfare of horses in NYC is overseen by the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). The ASPCA works with horse owners, carriage companies, and racetracks to ensure the horses are well cared for and treated humanely. They also inspect stables and horse carriages regularly to ensure the horses are receiving proper care.
Regulations
To protect the horses in NYC, the city has several regulations in place. Carriage horses are required to work no more than nine hours a day and must be given a five week vacation every year. Racehorses are required to be tested for drugs before and after races, and must be given a certain amount of rest between races. The NYPD’s mounted police force has strict rules in place to ensure the horses are treated humanely and are given proper care.
Conclusion
New York City is home to a diverse population of horses, from carriage horses to racehorses. There are an estimated 2,000 horses living in the city, located primarily in the outer boroughs. The care and welfare of these animals is overseen by the ASPCA, and there are regulations in place to ensure their safety and well-being.
References
- American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Horse Care & Welfare. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/animal-cruelty/horse-care-and-welfare
- Cahill, M. (2016, August 10). Horse-Drawn Carriages in NYC: History, Regulations & Controversy. Retrieved from https://www.tripsavvy.com/horse-drawn-carriages-in-nyc-4152217
- New York Racing Association. Regulations. Retrieved from https://www.nyra.com/belmont/racing/rules-regulations
- Police Department of the City of New York. Mounted Unit. Retrieved from https://www1.nyc.gov/site/nypd/units/mounted/mounted.page