Anheuser-Busch, the brewing company that owns Budweiser, has announced that it will no longer cut the tails of its famous Clydesdale horses following pressure from animal activists. This controversial practice, known as equine tail docking, involves amputating the distal part of the boney part of the tail and has been condemned by the American Veterinary Medical Association. The Clydesdale horses have been a symbol of Budweiser since 1933 when they were first introduced to celebrate the repeal of Prohibition. Over the years, they have become cultural icons, appearing in numerous commercials and ads.
Animal rights groups, including People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), sent a letter to Anheuser-Busch earlier this month, urging the company to immediately prohibit the surgery on the Clydesdales. The letter argued that tail docking is a permanent disfigurement that causes lifelong pain, affects the horses' balance, and removes their natural protection from flies and other biting insects. Horses rely on their tails to communicate with each other, making the procedure unnecessary and cruel.
The announcement from Anheuser-Busch came after more than 121,000 concerned consumers pleaded for an end to the practice. PETA stated that they had organized dozens of protests and nationwide ad campaigns to raise awareness about the issue. They celebrated the victory by stating that their staff would be "cracking open some cold ones."
The controversy surrounding tail docking is not the only challenge that Anheuser-Busch has faced recently. Sales of Bud Light, one of their signature beer brands, dipped following a backlash from conservatives over an Instagram ad campaign featuring transgender actress and activist Dylan Mulvaney. The negative impact on sales led to Anheuser-Busch eliminating approximately 2% of its workforce, resulting in the loss of around 380 jobs.
In an effort to address concerns about animal welfare, Anheuser-Busch also announced a new partnership with American Humane, the world's largest certifier of animal welfare practices. The company aims to demonstrate its commitment to the safety and well-being of its Clydesdale horses by working with this renowned organization.
By ending the practice of tail docking, Anheuser-Busch hopes to appease animal rights activists and regain the trust of consumers who have been critical of their treatment of animals. With the Clydesdales being such an integral part of Budweiser's branding and marketing, the decision to prioritize the horses' welfare is undoubtedly a significant step for the company.
