Animals have feelings just like us

A few weeks ago Cheltenham was the only thing that was on the lips of horse racing fans, sports enthusiasts and well, basically everyone and anyone who likes sport.

While an animal lover like me had to endure the constant talk about ‘almighty God Ruby Walsh’ and loads of other jockeys, I couldn’t believe when I read reports that Ruby Walsh had allegedly said that horses are replaceable.

I used to really admire Ruby Walsh. I admired his never-give-up spirit and winning attitude, he should be completely proud of that. However, where it all went downhill for my relationship with horse-racing was the industry’s attitude to the whip. Now, I’m not an eejit, I’ve a good enough brain and I understand that you need to control a colossal animal like a horse in some way, but by slapping and hitting its behind until you get over the line is just horrible to me. How about I get on your back and you run 100m while I hit you across the behind with my stick, eh?

Sure, if you fall, don’t worry, I can always replace you.

I’ve always been against any kind of sports that involves animals being hurt. For one of my feature length TV shows, I refused to go on a huskie sled ride because I felt I’d be hurting the dogs.

I know non-animal lovers are reading this thinking ‘ah shur, they’re only animals!’ But how would you like it if the tables were turned?

I do think that the animals in this world should be cared for and yes, even though some might be dangerous, I still believe animals are just like people and have feelings and feel pain and injury.

While there are plenty of dangerous animals out there, there are plenty of gorgeous, happy, affectionate ones too. They all deserve our respect. Unfortunately, these days most humans believe they are the superior power. But look how many innocent animals are abandoned and neglected, due to our greed and arrogance? More serious punishments should be dished out to anyone who harms a defenceless animal.

I strongly urge people reading this, if you have a pet, look into its eyes and just see the love and admiration they have for you. They are part of our lives for a short period of time, yet we are 100% of their lives.

I truly wish Ruby well with his recovery and hopefully his glittering career will continue. But I cannot condone a sport that allows a whip to be used against an animal.