Overview

• A necropsy performed by Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine determined that Lady’s aortic rupture was likely triggered by a small tumor in her adrenal gland.
• The pathologist’s report noted no signs of neglect or abuse and described Lady as being in good body condition.
• TWU Local 100 said the sudden medical event could have killed any horse and expressed mourning over the unexpected loss.
• Animal welfare groups including NYCLASS and PETA held emergency rallies urging City Council to schedule hearings on Ryder’s Law, which would ban new carriage horse licenses from 2026.
• Carriage industry representatives and some officials defended biannual veterinary checks and argued that sudden health crises can occur regardless of environment.