Karozzini horses now only allowed to be used on alternative days

The new regulations surrounding the use of karozzini were introduced yesterday through a legal notice that will be addressing the welfare of the animals, Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Rights Clint Camilleri said.

Speaking at a press conference, the Parliamentary Secretary explained that the karozzini were still being considered as a means of transports, and therefore were required to follow those specific regulations.

This new legal notice will not only consider the animals involved, removing them from following the regulations pertaining to transport, but also ensure that a balance will be struck between the owners, tradition, commerce, and the wellbeing of the animal.

The regulations were drawn up through conversations with NGOs, the Animal Welfare Council, and all stakeholders (supposedly the owners of the karozzini).

The main rule pertaining to the allowable time of use says that in the months of July and August, arguably the hottest months of the year in Malta, karozzini will not be allowed to be in use between the hours of 1 pm and 4 pm. During this time they must also be in a shaded area and also provided water or any other necessities for the welfare of the animal - enabling the horses to rest.

The horses in question will also only be allowed to work on alternative days – meaning that they will only be drawing carriages for three to four times a week, and each trip cannot be longer than 45 minutes in total.

The maximum number of people being drawn cannot overtake more than four passengers, excluding the driver.

All these changes are to be implemented on top of the recently increased fines and punishments attached to animal cruelty.