Since last October 6, the City Council of Málaga (Spain) revoked the licenses that allowed the traditional tourist rides in horse-drawn carriages through the city.
The decision, defended as a step in favor of animal welfare and safety, marks the end of a practice that for decades was part of the urban landscape of Málaga.
The fate of the retired horses
Most of the horses that worked in this activity have been relocated to associations and sanctuaries that seek to give them a better life. One of them is ‘Guitarra’, a 26-year-old horse that had been taking tourists around the streets of Málaga since he was 8.
With joint problems and signs of physical wear, he arrived at the sanctuary in Antequera under the care of the association A Better Life 4 Horses, led by former rider Signe Fröslee, who has already rescued 16 horses from a more tragic fate.
“He was lame and had other problems too. No one is going to buy a horse like that. The only option was the slaughterhouse,” Fröslee recounted.
The rescue and care have required an investment of 25,000 euros, as many of these animals had never received veterinary attention and had lingering injuries or exhausting work routines.
Working conditions and mistreatment
The horses used to live among carriages and stables, with insufficient spaces and long days under the sun. Some were accustomed to drinking water only twice a day and showed unhealed wounds or signs of malnutrition.
“They arrived like that because the owners didn’t even want to spend five euros on a headcollar,” Fröslee denounced, referring to the lack of investment in basic equipment.
Although some animals received more adequate treatment, others need to regain their trust in humans after years of exploitation.
Reasons for eliminating horse-drawn carriage rides
The City Council’s measure is based on recognizing that horses are sentient beings and that their use for tourist entertainment is not compatible with a modern model of responsible tourism.
Among the main reasons are:
- Risk of overload: ridden by inexperienced people or with excessive weight.
- Injuries and wounds: caused by equipment and workload.
- Lack of veterinary care: leading to lameness and chronic problems.
- Stress and dehydration: due to heat and lack of water or shade.
- Denial of natural behaviors: such as socialization, causing anxiety.
- Malnutrition: incorrect or insufficient feeding.
Towards more ethical tourism
Málaga’s decision opens the debate on tourist alternatives that do not involve the use of animals. Among them are:
- Responsible tourism, focused on cultural and environmental experiences.
- Environmental enrichment, ensuring that horses live in environments that encourage their natural behaviors.
- Socialization, ensuring they can coexist with others of their species, as they are gregarious animals.
A peaceful retirement for the horses
Today, associations like A Better Life 4 Horses work to ensure that retired horses enjoy a peaceful and dignified “retirement”, far from mistreatment and exploitation.
Málaga’s measure becomes a precedent in Spain and reinforces the idea that future tourism should prioritize respect for animals and sustainability.
