Target: Zoran Milanović, President of Croatia
Goal: Enact strict animal welfare laws to protect horses from alleged torture and abuse in Croatia
In the serene landscapes of Croatia, beneath a veneer of tradition, horses reportedly face unspeakable acts of cruelty. Reports depict a chilling scenario where these noble creatures, chained and defenseless, are subjected to relentless brutality. Such alleged actions are purportedly carried out in the shadows of dark barns, all in preparation for a traditional event known as ‘Straparijada,’ a log-pulling competition where the physical and psychological limits of these animals are tested.
Further allegations describe the horses as being mercilessly beaten, a practice claimed to be part of their “training.” These majestic beings, revered for their strength and beauty, are seemingly reduced to mere tools for human amusement. The horror of these acts lies not just in their alleged cruelty, but in the normalization of such violence under the guise of cultural tradition. The thought of these animals trembling in fear, subjected to pain and suffering, paints a dark picture far removed from the cultural heritage it claims to represent.
The necessity for change is urgent. These alleged acts of cruelty must not be allowed to continue under the protection of tradition. The time has come to stand against such barbaric practices and advocate for a future where tradition does not equate to torture. Call for the enactment of stringent animal welfare laws, ones that will offer protection and justice for these horses.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear President Zoran Milanović,
It is with a heavy heart and a sense of urgent duty that we bring to your attention the distressing allegations surrounding the treatment of horses in Croatia. Reports have surfaced, painting a harrowing picture of cruelty and abuse allegedly taking place under the guise of preparing for traditional log-pulling competitions known as Straparijada. These majestic creatures, synonymous with strength and grace, are reportedly subjected to unimaginable brutality, beaten, and terrorized in an attempt to break their spirits.
The gravity of these allegations cannot be overstated. If true, such practices not only mar the essence of cultural tradition but also blatantly violate the principles of compassion and decency. It is distressing to think that in our modern society, such barbaric methods are allegedly employed and justified in the name of tradition. These horses, revered in so many cultures for their nobility, allegedly endure unimaginable suffering for mere entertainment.
We urge you to take immediate action. The establishment and enforcement of robust animal welfare legislation are crucial. Such laws would safeguard these noble animals from the alleged abuse and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Tradition must not serve as a shield for cruelty. We implore you to lead the way in creating a future where cultural practices no longer involve the alleged torture and mistreatment of animals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Silverije
This is completely appalling and outrageous to subject these beautiful animals to such sickening treatment, cruelty and torture. I actually watched the 2023 festival on YouTube and was disgusted. Please end these sickening and barbaric traditions that have no place in the 21st century.
I have seen footage of these horses being thrashed mercilessly in their stable to make them submissive and then again when they are trying to do the impossible, pulling HUGE tree trunks along. As someone who has 2 very willing and gentle horses, I know how anxious they are to please and this just breaks my heart. Just shoot all animal abusers, this bunch included, and be rid of them. Anyone capable of this is capable of ANYTHING…..
The news and videos coming from Croatia showing the most horrific abuse of horses for fun and entertainment is disturbing and depraved. Is Croatia a Forth World Country now??? When they are done torturing horses will they start on children? Most likely. Stop this heinous abuse, you don’t need tourists to pass you by, my sis said she loved Croatia but when she saw the videos she threw up then vowed to never spend another dime there and I agree. Horrible thing they are doing and allowing.
All of these promoters and participating human trash people need to be prosecuted to the fullest! “Cultural tradition” that is just their way of justifying the ABUSE! This is disgusting. Anyone that endorses this or permits this is just as guilty as the people that are abusing these animals!