Prohibition on the dike: Why senior citizen Sonja can no longer walk without Fritzi

Prohibition on the dike: Why senior citizen Sonja can no longer walk without Fritzi

The city of Cuxhaven is faced with an unusual Situation: a senior woman is no longer allowed to take her beloved mini pony Fritzi on the dike. This raises questions about the integration of assistance and therapy animals into the urban landscape.

The role of miniponys in society

Miniponies like Fritzi are not only a cute companion, but also take on important tasks as therapy and service animals. In the United States, for example, they are considered "emotional support animal" and can even be taken on planes. These animals offer emotional support, especially for people with health restrictions.

The decision of the city of Cuxhaven

The city administration has decided that ponies are classified as vehicles because of the road traffic regulations. This means that Fritzi and his owner Sonja Weidhase are no longer allowed to go for a walk on the dike in the future. This regulation is based on the dike pre-regulation and the spa and beach regulation, which prohibit the access of vehicles, including ponies, to the dike. The concerns here are understandable: In order to avoid a flood of different animals on the dike, the city remains strictly with this regulation.

The emotional loss for the senior citizen

For the 79-year-old Sonja Weidhase, the decision is a hard blow. \ "My pony saved me my life," she explains. Fritzi gives her the necessary support, both physically by relying on him and emotionally, especially after several severe cancer operations. For her, the dike was a place of relaxation and contact with nature, where it could enjoy the healthy sea air.

a petition for better regulations?

Sonja Weidhase has contacted the dike association and the Kurdirection to examine the opportunity to create an exception for you and Fritzi. Although she can present a certificate from an occupational therapist who certifies her dependence on Fritzi, the city has so far not seen any scope for changes. This caused unrest among the city's citizens, as not only the senior citizen, but many people recognize the advantages of therapy ponies.

The importance of assisting

mini -ones are increasingly being used in therapeutic contexts and their popularity grows. They are small, handy and often very gentle. In contrast to larger horses, they can be used in many environments, which makes them ideal companions for people with special needs. The discussion about Fritzi and Sonja Weidhase is therefore not only a local matter, but also raises fundamental questions about the treatment and integration of assistance and therapy animals in society.

The incident in Cuxhaven could serve as an impulse for a broader discussion about the rights and status of assistants in society. Those affected hope that the legal framework will change in order to better consider the needs of such animals and their owners.