Target: Alaa Farouk, Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, Cairo, Egypt
Goal: Pursue all lawful penalties if the evidence supports allegations that working horses and camels were forced to work in extreme heat despite severe injuries, dehydration and Egypt’s newly implemented welfare protections.
Authorities intensified animal welfare enforcement following the implementation of a government ban on traditional camel and horse rides around the Pyramids of Giza. According to official reports, inspectors and veterinary authorities conducted monitoring operations to ensure compliance with the new policy designed to improve the welfare of working animals.
Several handlers allegedly continued operating horses and camels despite the prohibition. Authorities reportedly discovered animals working in intense summer temperatures while suffering from advanced saddle sores, untreated injuries and severe dehydration. Officials confiscated the affected animals and transferred them to veterinary rehabilitation facilities for emergency treatment and long-term care. Animal cruelty and regulatory complaints have been initiated against the handlers. No court has determined criminal liability and the administrative and judicial processes remain ongoing.
These allegations remain unresolved and must ultimately be decided through the legal process. However, if the evidence ultimately establishes that working animals were exploited despite clear legal protections and obvious physical suffering, meaningful accountability would be appropriate. Horses and camels used for tourism remain entitled to humane treatment and protection from preventable pain. Strong enforcement of Egypt’s new welfare measures is essential to deter similar alleged conduct and safeguard vulnerable animals.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Minister Farouk,
Authorities confiscated several horses and camels after inspectors allegedly discovered animals working despite the recently implemented prohibition. According to official accounts, some animals may have been forced to continue working while suffering from dehydration, untreated wounds and advanced saddle injuries. Those allegations remain subject to judicial and administrative review and should be evaluated through due process.
Please ensure that these investigations receive every available enforcement resource and that, if the evidence ultimately supports the allegations, all lawful penalties are pursued. If investigators determine that working animals endured preventable suffering in violation of Egypt’s animal welfare protections, appropriate accountability should follow under the law.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Mohammed Moussa
