The Horse and Carriage is one of the most easily-recognized symbols in the world. They’re used for funerals, weddings, or even casual trips around a park, and can be one of the most romantic ways to spend an evening. There are a few things to consider, though, when debating the hire of a horse-drawn carriage for an evening. Horse and carriage rental has come under scrutiny by animal rights groups over the last 15 years or so, with those groups claiming that the horses which drawn the carriages have been mistreated or otherwise mishandled. Doing a bit of research into the company who provides the service is an essential place to start the search.
Those looking to hire such a team can make a few fast inquiries as to whether or not a company treats their animals properly, simply by checking out the various forums and websites on the topic which literally litter the internet. While it’s true that companies may have treated their animals poorly in the past, the amount of public scrutiny on their business activities over the past decade have cleaned up their acts considerably. Now, it’s a safe bet that any company which has survived this long has a long track-record of proper treatment and care of the animals under their charge.
Their are a few cities which are known for their horse-drawn carriage industry. New York City, of course, has some of the most visible horse-drawn carriage industries in the United States, with teams circling Central Park at all hours of the day and night. These horse and master teams provide escort and transportation for the newly-married couples and those who are well on their way into a romantic evening together.
Of course, happy occasions aren’t the only reason to hire a horse-team. Funerals are one of the most popular times to hire a horse and buggy team, as these beasts-of-burden seem ideally suited to carrying our dear recently-departed. Cities such as New Orleans, Louisiana are well known for their jazz funerals, where bodies are readily drawn to their final resting place by a team of horses pulling a wagon with the decorated coffin aboard. Regardless, though, of the occasion, it’s always worth considering the hire of a horse and driver for any occasion – they’re certainly more stylish than the limousine everyone else uses.
