Can horses be happy? I had an immediate response to this question and as I formulated it I realised it took me to a crossroads, then a roundabout and on to a multi junction in the centre of Delhi… on the back of a moped… wait that really happened. I digress, I mean it seems an easy question to answer but like all really good questions there is, I fear no easy, or even one answer to it.
My short answer is. I don’t believe horses can be happy as we know it, but can find peace and trust, with the right human that is aware of the limitations domestication forces on them. Showing willingness to understand what this means and taking the responsibility of what is asked of them creates authentic connections.
The long answer may seem on the surface quite negative but bare with me as there is a positive to what is a conflicting situation.
I don’t believe domestic horses are ever truly happy.
To be happy all beings need to have their fundamental needs met, as per their species and evolution. The life of a domestic horse is so far, in most cases, removed from this ideal it is highly unlikely this is achieved.
For me these are Freedom, Companions and Choices. All of which are intrinsically linked.
Freedom
Freedom. The possibility to roam without barriers, without confinement. No matter how you keep your horses their freedom is compromised. I include my own, who have a beautiful natural forest to inhabit. There still is a perimeter fence turning them back, a route chosen for them through the forest.
Companions
Companions. The ability to make friendships with herd members that they feel a connection with. In a wild herd there will be pairs and pockets of horses that form stronger bonds than with others, these companions look out for each other, they create a safe environment.
Yet we put horses together and then get upset they don’t love each other, immediately. We are lucky that survival trumps all and the instinct for balance means that they can find a compromise to live together most of the time. This balance is achievable by giving them the time they need and ensuring introductions are managed compassionately. Even then you may only get tolerance. I speak form experience.
Choices
Choices. As domestic horses we remove the choices that they would normally rely on for survival. They don’t choose what, where or when to eat. They can’t choose their herd or where to roam to find safety or the ideal spot for relief from flies, sun, wind… you get the idea.
We manage their minds as their environment. Micromanaging movements and then we wonder why our horses are dull and seem to be waiting to be ‘told’. Unrealistic expectations of self awareness and struggle with horses lacking curiosity and in turn confidence. Horses so diluted that living in their own head feels better than facing the world we have created for them
Sounds dire right? Please don’t despair, the horse spirit is strong, willing and seeks collaboration. We just need to honestly reciprocate.
The positive is within the acknowledgement of the conflicts between nature and nurture. By appreciating these difficulties, we can put in place changes to meet their needs, as best we can, with the restrictions we have.
And the jackpot is. They see this try and acknowledge and appreciate in return which creates the trust and connection they, seek, where they feel safe within the not so ideal space we offer.
These are ever evolving thoughts…
Rachel Windchaser – The Horsesmith™
“Connect with their MINDS and their Bodies will Follow”
REWILD YOUR HORSE SPIRIT
Other Stuff
Another blog post that you may find helpful, Smile
Join the herd and have access to exclusive material by becoming a ReWild Your Horse Spirit Patreon
Don’t forget to subscribe to our Windchaser Ranch YouTube channel
