Calls for Action Mount Once More Over Abused Horses

Another case of horse abuse in Belize City has reignited public anger. Animal welfare volunteer Michelle Rudon has renewed calls for urgent action over continued abuse of horses in Belize City.

Images of horses in visibly poor condition circulated online over a rain-soaked weekend. One photograph showed a horse lying on its side with apparent injuries to its legs.

Rudon responded with a blunt appeal online on Sunday, requesting to “remove all horses from the city.” She said, “Horses do not belong here, being raced on scorching concrete streets and being beaten and starved daily. We have to do better. Authorities, it’s way past time to put an end to this.”

In an earlier statement, she described years of frustration over repeated reports of abuse. “These kids steal the horses and race them daily, with no shelter, food or water on scorching concrete streets. The horses are SUFFERING. MANY HAVE DIED,” Rudon said. She added, “How many more have to die before this help is received?”

Several cases of horse abuse have been reported in the city this year. 

The issue was formally raised at a Belize City Council Regular Meeting on May 28, 2025. According to the official minutes, Councillor Kaya Cattouse raised city residents’ concerns that teenagers and children were riding horses through city streets while many animals were “underfed, malnourished, and in some cases physically injured.” In one instance, a resident contacted her after discovering a horse carcass and requested its removal.

Cattouse proposed welfare checks, collaboration with police and social services, a horse ownership registration system, and a public education campaign.

Mayor Bernard Wagner recognised the concerns but said the “issue does not fall directly within the council’s mandate”. Instead, he encouraged a stakeholder meeting and public education through the council’s public relations arm.

The City Administrator confirmed plans to engage public health officials and indicated support from veterinarians and the Humane Society.

News 5 has contacted Councillor Cattouse for an update on progress.