The important relationship between humans and horses has helped shape a significant portion of world history. Horses have served our civilization in many unique ways; they have provided labor and transportation; carried troops and supplies for the military, while also providing strategic advantages; and been raced and ridden for our sports and entertainment. The family horse was often treated as a member of the family, lovingly fed carrots and apples by young children, and ridden merrily along the lush, grassy plains in our rural communities.
(There have also been a few unusual examples of friendship, including TV's Mister Ed and Wilbur Post. Yet, it's still not wrong to say, “a horse is a horse, of course, of course.”)
Our world, however, has dramatically changed. Scientific and technological advances since the end of the nineteenth century have gradually rendered the noble steed, who faithfully served pauper and king alike for centuries, closer to the green pastures of retirement.
Read Full Article »