Horsepower

Feature:

Transport Workers Union Local 100 represents the Central Park horse-carriage drivers and owners who provide one of the most popular outdoor attractions in New York City.

A message from the Central Park Horse Doctor:

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There are approximately 170 licensed carriage drivers and owners operating out of three privately-owned stables on the West Side of Manhattan. They provide hundreds of thousands of rides annually to tourists from around the world, along with New York area residents who are celebrating momentous occasions like weddings and anniversaries, are enjoying a night on the town, or are having a relaxing family day in the 843-acre park.

The carriage drivers and owners also hail from around the world. A vast majority of them are immigrants or children of immigrants who came in search of the American dream.

Carriage people are horse people who choose to work with these majestic animals over other possible careers. They raise their kids, save for college, pay their rent, and make their mortgage payments working in the horse-carriage trade.

Carriage rides have been a feature of Central Park since the first section opened to the public in 1858. Today, carriage rides are provided in compliance with extensive regulations enacted by New York City government. Oversight and enforcement are carried out by five city agencies, including the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the New York Police Department.

The carriage horses get physical exams by equine veterinarians 2 to 4 times a year, regular dental care, vaccinations, regular hoof trimmings, new shoes every eight weeks or sooner, comfortable stalls that are cleaned throughout the day – and a minimum of five weeks of vacation (many spend several months on farms). They have short walking commutes between their stables and the park, and they spend very little time on the streets.

“After much investigation, it was clear to me these horses are living happy lives with owners who truly care for their well-being,” Dr. Mark Jordan, an equine veterinarian, wrote in an essay published in the New York Daily News . “These owners/drivers are proud of their animals and provide them with excellent care on a daily basis. I strongly support the continuation of these carriage horses in New York City as an equine veterinarian, long-time horse owner and horseman.”

For more information on our campaign to support this industry contact Frank McCann: fmccann@twulocal100.org  or call him at 917-488-8314.

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