A recent video sparked concerns online that Walt Disney World Resort is using “agitated” horses in its parades, endangering thousands of nearby guests.
Walt Disney World Resort is home to more than 90 horses, most of whom live at Tri-Circle-D Ranch at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Some horses are used in entertainment at Disney parks. Guests can interact with others during horseback riding lessons, carriage rides, and other offerings at the Disney Resort hotels.
While horses have a storied history at the Disney parks, some fans believe it’s time to retire the partnership. TikTok user @pollyannatinksvacations recently shared this video of horses pulling Cinderella and Prince Charming’s carriage during Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade at Magic Kingdom Park, noting that the animals seemed “agitated.”
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The horses jerked and pulled a bit in the video, but their handler seemed to calm them down. Some Disney Parks fans weren’t happy with what they saw.
“I do not like the way they are being grabbed,” @kayyyrollln commented.
Many commenters said the video was evidence that Walt Disney World Resort employs knowledgeable caretakers for their horses, not a sign of neglect.
“No one is grabbing them too hard either,” @ashleysmagicaladventures wrote. “These are some of the most well cared for horses in the world.”
“The handlers are doing well to read their mannerisms,” said @laurenelliottphoto. “The handler on the right of the screen noticed her horse nip towards the other and pulled it back in place. Nothing about that was agressive or hurtful. She’s preventing more agitation.”
The commenter even said the horses’ behavior proved they liked their “jobs” at the Disney park.
“Lots of times horses that are in work mode are like ‘lets go’ they get impatient and want to walk on,” they continued. “Ponies tend to be more feisty overall…Watch the one on the left he keeps stepping and pacing, he’s just ready to go and impatient to stop.”
Others noted that these animals could still be learning because Walt Disney World Resort breeds and trains its horses.
“They might be new!” @kittyfrompallet explained. Disney specifically breeds and raises horses for the carriage role. They also don’t appear in the parks that often, so getting used to their job can take some time. Just not as seasoned as some of the other horses, like those that pull the trolley or the headless horseman’s ride, those guys are pretty bulletproof.”
Should Walt Disney World Resort continue using horses in parades and other entertainment offerings? Share your opinion with Disney Fanatic in the comments.
