Yes, your (horse) sh*t does stink.
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Please clean up after your huge pet. Leaving pet feces on trails is unsanitary, unsafe and unfriendly.
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Leaving horse manure on shared trails is not just unsightly; it poses real health, safety, and environmental risks. Horse manure can take weeks to decompose, during which time it becomes a breeding ground for a variety of pathogens and parasites that can transmit diseases to humans and animals. These include harmful bacteria like E. coli and parasites such as roundworms, which can be especially hazardous to children, pets, and anyone with compromised immune systems who may come into contact with the soil.
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Moreover, decomposing manure releases ammonia, which not only produces a foul odor but can irritate the respiratory tract of trail users and disrupt local wildlife. The presence of manure also attracts flies and other pests, which further degrade the quality and experience of using shared outdoor spaces.
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From an environmental perspective, manure contributes to nutrient pollution. As it breaks down, it releases excess nutrients into the soil and nearby water bodies, potentially leading to algae blooms that deplete oxygen in waterways and harm aquatic life.
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Leaving any pet feces, including horse manure, in the middle of a trail also shows a lack of consideration for other trail users. It can impede access, forcing others to navigate around or through the poop, disrupting their enjoyment and experience of nature. This lack of trail etiquette diminishes the shared sense of respect and responsibility that is vital for maintaining our community outdoor spaces.
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For these reasons, it is crucial that all pet owners, including horse owners, clean up after their animals. It preserves the health and beauty of our trails and ensures that these environments remain safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone.
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"But we have been letting horses poop everywhere for centuries! It's part of America!"
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Sadly the same could have been said for bloodletting, institutionalized racism & sexism, slavery, and more. Just because something has been happening for a long time doesn't make it a good idea. It's your pet's sh*t. Don't leave it on trails, in your living room, on a sidewalk or anywhere else someone else has to deal with it.
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"But my horse only eats plants. Dog poop is gross, horse poop is nice."
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Unfortunately you are mistaken. Horse poop does in fact stink, and is in fact unhealthy and gross. Do we let vegans poop wherever they want because they only eat plants? Obviously not. Pick up your pet's poop.
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"But how will I take my horse on rides? There is no way to catch the poop!"
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Fortunately there are many inexpensive and effective products that will easily catch your horse's poop for you. Amazon has one for $143. This one is even made by Amish people and only $96!