Paris Public Parks to Ban Pony Rides in 2025, Animal Rights Activists Celebrate, France

Paris, renowned for its picturesque public parks, will cease allowing pony rides for children starting in 2025. Animal rights activists have long campaigned against the practice, arguing that the ponies are subjected to inadequate treatment. For decades, pony rides have been a popular feature in parks such as Champ de Mars, Parc Monceau, and Parc du Luxembourg, particularly on weekends and during school holidays. Paris Animaux Zoopolis (PAZ) and other campaigners have persistently advocated for the termination of pony rides in the city, raising concerns about the long working hours for ponies, the absence of rest periods without their bit, restricted access to fresh water and hay, and the stress of transportation on trucks into town. PAZ’s petition to ban the rides has garnered over 8,400 signatures. In response to these concerns, the city hall implemented a charter for the well-being of ponies in 2021 and recently decided to phase out the licenses of pony ride operators. While some Parisians treasure the tradition of pony rides, others support the decision to prioritize animal welfare and discontinue using ponies solely for entertainment purposes. With 2025 approaching, Parisians are awaiting further details from the city hall regarding its stance on the matter.