In Sunday’s newspaper, Amanda Trippe wrote a letter about her concerns for the carriage horses in Natchez. The letter reveals several half truths.

I’ve been a carriage driver and firefighter here in Natchez for about 12 years, and over the years I have learned a lot about horses and people. Every year we have to defend ourselves because someone chooses to write an article or letter to the editor in The Natchez Democrat instead of talking to us about their concerns.

It is wrong to go by opinion and accuse someone of abuse or neglect without knowing the facts. This is not only slander by Amanda, but it is also by the newspaper for allowing this. It is wrong to give false examples that damage one’s reputation or business. The Democrat has consistently showed that they are against the horse carriages by having one-sided articles and trying to make a private business wear uniforms in the past.

Last year several vets, horse owners and the humane society all came to our defense saying that these were healthy well kept animals. I understand concerns for the wellbeing of these horses, I welcome it, because they are like a pet to me. They are fed twice a day and water is always available to them. These animals are happy, well-treated animals that enjoy what they do. If there is any doubt, come by and see for yourself, meet with me and observe the facts.

In the letter, several issues are mentioned about the treatment and size of the horses.

We have standard bred horses that are tall, lean and lanky and sometimes clumsy. We also have a few mules that are sure-footed and so ugly they are cute, and, true to popular belief, stubborn. These animals are work horses not show animals, many of them have been rescued or bought from the Amish or owners who no longer want them. Each horse is groomed daily, and if there is any health problem the owners seek out the best treatment and spare no expense. Each horse has his own stall at the barn along with his own lot, which is plenty of room to run around. Another concern was that these horses have to stand in the sun all day. Horses have a thick hide that is five times thicker than human skin. They are able to withstand heat and cold better than us. In nature they eat in grass lands with no shade or trees. We are located at the Canal Street depot because that is where the city allows us to be. The building provides shade for part of the day and part of the day is in the sun. If the heat gets to be too much, the horses are brought to the barn. There is a day shift from 8:30 to 4 and then a night shift with new horses and drivers from 4 until about 9 or 10. There are more horses than drivers so that each horse is rotated to have days off.

Amanda states that several cities have a ban on horse carriages, but that is not the whole truth. Many cities have found that due to heavy traffic, not health concerns, it is best to ban carriages. Some beach communities do not want any animals on the beach or access roads. Here in Natchez, traffic is not an issue in our downtown area. Exhaust fumes from cars are a concern for humans and horses, but that is in large cities that have backed up traffic and no ventilation because of tall buildings.

This industry is a non-polluting industry.

Amanda says that the horse drawn carriages are only for human enjoyment. These horses enjoy getting out and seeing different sights. When they work they get treats. The horse I usually drive likes carrots, oatmeal cookies and skittles and I always joke about them being part-time tree trimmers for the city.

Children stop by to bring an apple and pet them and we try to teach them a little bit about the horses. The carriages are one of the few businesses to stay open after five downtown and offer clean family fun.

We want what is best for these animals just like everyone else. I believe that Amanda’s concern is truly sincere, and that she wants these horses to be healthy.

Over the years through observation of others we have been able to make this business a great opportunity to promote Natchez and take care of animals that we love dearly. I thank Amanda for her concern and welcome her to visit. Oh, and bring carrots.

Guy Tuccio

Natchez resident