Following a wave of outrage, the Miami nightclub that allowed a dancer to ride a horse onto its dancefloor has been shut down.
Footage of the distressed horse in Mokai Lounge sparked condemnation from animal lovers and clubbers across the world.
Man uses his own foot as a pillow after having it amputated
A petition for Miami Beach authorities to take action against the nightclub was signed by over 2,000 people within two days.
Laura Sosa, who started the petition, said: ‘People go to night clubs to have a good time, enjoy drinks with friends, dance and party.
‘This environment is by no means a place for any animal or wildlife.’
She added: ‘The question remains as to why a horse was let into the doors of Mokai in the first place, but the answer remains the same, action must be taken for letting this happen.’
Elisa Allen, Director of animal rights charity, told Metro.co.uk: ‘This nightclub lost its license for subjecting a horse to a traumatic environment, including rowdy and drunken people, thumping music, and bright lights.
‘With high-tech animatronics and video deejays available, there’s no excuse ever to subject an animal to stress and danger for human amusement.’
‘Horses are particularly sensitive and easily spooked. Because of their tendency to panic and run amok under stress, they risk injuring themselves and others in such a place.’
She added: ‘Animal exploitation has no place in any decent person’s night out, and we urge everyone to avoid venues which tout these sorts of acts – for the safety of animals and themselves.’
Miami Beach city manager Jimmy Morales responded by revoking Mokai Lounge’s business licence.
He said: ‘Disgusted and offended that any legitimate businessperson would think this was an appropriate action to take.
‘This activity was not permitted, and as soon as we became aware, I immediately instructed staff to act swiftly in remedying this situation.’
UPDATE: Miami Beach PD detectives along with @MiamiDadePD ’s animal experts have located the horse that was at Mokai. The horse has been inspected and deemed to be healthy and safe by Miami Dade PD.
Our investigation continues. https://t.co/pCI5TZ9sww
— Miami Beach Police (@MiamiBeachPD) March 10, 2018
Miami Beach mayor Dan Gelber held a press conference concerning the incident at Mokai Lounge.
He said: ‘What kind of idiot would do this, what kind of idiot would endanger people’s lives by riding a horse into a club? There obviously a criminal investigation into this.’
I have such ill feelings towards whoever thought it would be a good marketing move to have a horse inside of that club in Miami.
A large animal in such a confined space. That horse had every reason to react the way it did. So cruel!
— Lois (@__mccartney) March 10, 2018
The club owner Roman Jones, denied knowing about the stunt.
He told CBS: ‘The horse is not hurt. The marketing director, who arranged the stunt, that I was unaware of, is suspended without pay. I am cooperating with the authorities.’
MORE: England could organise World Cup boycott if Russia did poison former spy
MORE: Mystery illness dubbed ‘Disease X’ could kill millions, scientists warn
[contf] [contfnew] 
METRO
[contfnewc] [contfnewc]
