Answer
They are unmanaged wildlife, not petting-zoo animals—bites send tourists to Atlantic General Hospital every summer. Law protects horses from harassment including touching manes for TikTok clips.
Sources: National Park Service — Assateague · Atlantic General Hospital
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
