Many horses are still forced to pull carriages and stand for hours as fireworks erupt and drums beat during wedding processions. Many are forced to endure this while suffering from painful injuries and illness. That included Om.

He was suffering from severe osteoarthritis, a painful condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints, from a lifetime of being forced to work on hard roads. Yet, he was still being made to pull a heavy wedding carriage through crowded streets. Surrounded by loud music, traffic, and crowds, Om endured chronic physical pain and emotional stress.

Horses forced into procession commonly suffer harness wounds, lip lesions from spiked bits, swollen tendons, and joint damage from years of hard labour. And so, Om had learned, that human hands meant pain.

When he arrived at Animal Rahat’s sanctuary, the harness came off for the last time. But Om wouldn’t let anyone near him. So Animal Rahat’s caretakers gave him what he desired—quiet and patience. Day after day, Om learned, he is not made to work, is not given commands, but is instead having his pain tended to, and is given fresh food and clean water. Weeks passed. Then one day, Om stopped walking away.

Today, he grazes, rests, and moves entirely on his own terms, safe, free, and at peace. But other horses still need help. 

For horses like Om, choose a decorated car or other non-animal means for your wedding. Make it a celebration that is joyous for all.