For centuries, humans have forged a unique bond with animals, relying on their assistance in a myriad of tasks. This partnership extends beyond the conventional use of dogs or horses; even birds and elephants have played crucial roles. Falcons, for instance, have aided in hunting, while elephants have served as war vehicles or carried heavy loads in Asian countries.

In Poland, horses, dogs, and birds are the most commonly used animals for support, but people are increasingly turning to other animals, such as alpacas, for assistance.

The issue of the Morskie Oko horses suffering due to overwork is a distressing and recurring problem. Pro-animal foundations consistently report cases of death or collapse of animals caused by exhaustion. A particularly alarming incident occurred on May 3, which has drawn the attention of Anna-Maria Żukowska and others. Żukowska has criticized MPs from the Civic Coalition who defend Polish Highlanders earning huge profits at the expense of horses' well-being, highlighting the urgent need for action.

Specifically, she is referring to Joanna Kluzik-Rostkowska, Jagna Marczułajtis-Walczak, and Alicja Chybicka. Members of the Civic Coalition have defended the exploitation of horses at Morskie Oko. Former snowboarding athlete Marczułajtis-Walczak once stated that ‘highlanders love horses more than their own children’. Kluzik-Rostkowska, on the other hand, believed that ‘horses must exercise’. Though this statement may seem true, it must be emphasised that pulling overloaded carts for many hours a day during a heatwave shouldn’t be considered an "exercise".

The recent horse accident reignited the debate on animal exploitation near Morskie Oko. In an interview with o2.pl, the newly elected mayor of Zakopane, Łukasz Filipowicz, was asked about his stance on the issue. He stated that the matter was not within his jurisdiction as the area where animal exploitation takes place is managed by Białka Tatrzańska and the Tatra National Park. However, he acknowledged that it is a significant issue from a PR perspective.

The mayor has proposed a potential solution to the issue, suggesting the use of modern technology such as smaller, additionally supported carriages. This innovative approach could potentially alleviate the strain on the horses, offering a more humane alternative. However, he also acknowledged his limitations, stating that he is not a veterinary specialist and cannot determine whether horses are being overloaded, emphasizing the need for expert input in this matter.

Despite the recent incident, the mayor is not in favour of a complete ban on the use of horses at Morskie Oko Lake. He believes that horses are an essential element of folklore that has become a permanent part of the culture.