Posted by Mona

There is an ever-growing lack of concern for the equine. In the news we see stories of neglect and abuse. We see people with very little understanding of the basic needs of the equine and its contribution to mankind. We see hearts that have no compassion for an animal that is willing to give up its life for his human companion. Why do so many people seem to just not care? What can be done about the ever-growing lack of concern for the horse? Is there a way to change the future for the horse?

It is my firm belief that changing minds and educating is the best way to handle this situation. Though I believe educating people is the best answer I also believe it is a process which will take time. We can not expect to eliminate equine abuse or neglect with a flip of a switch. Instead we need to continue efforts in educating people about the history of horses and their contribution to man as well as the basic needs of the horse and the horrible conditions many horses are now enduring.

To change the minds of people in industries that are harmful to horses will not be an easy task to undertake but it is worth the effort. If we can give people the opportunity to make the right choice based on compelling facts we may just be able to change the minds of many.

Educating children is another very important area to be explored. Children have a natural interest in the suffering and unfairly treated. If we as adults we make a conscious effort to pass on our love and understanding of horses to children we will have a chance at molding the future of the horse. It is important however that we give children substantial reasons to love the horse. Giving children more reason than that “horses are pretty” is of absolute importance in our efforts. We must teach those willing to learn, that the horse is an important part of our history and that without the horse life as we know it may have turned out very differently. Horses have not only been used as a form of transportation by our ancestors but they have no doubt been companions that kept people from loosing hope at one time or another. Horses have given their lives dying in battles and cross country traveling yet many children and adults are unaware of these facts. History books give us information of how a nation is born with horses in many paintings and pictures but very rarely is there an in-depth study of the contribution of the horse.

Industry and technology has changed the work expected of the horse but that does not mean they are no longer useful. The required work of horses may not be as it once was but they are still very much needed. Though many horse related professions are not considered a need for the existence of mankind these professions are still an important part of our economy. There are also a few important jobs we have given the horse that can only effectively be accomplished by this animal. Therapeutic and search and rescue are to name a few. Horse, donkeys and burros are also still very much needed in many third world countries and small villages today.

We also must not forget the horse’s ability to teach us. This God given creature has the ability to changes hearts just by running across a field. A horse can teach a person more about themselves then sometimes they would like to know. A horse can help us humans with our personal growth by teaching us patience, respect, love and devotion.

I could go on and on about what the horse has done for mankind and for the individual lives of many but I think it is important that each horse-loving person ask themselves, “Why is the horse important to me?”. The answer to this question is what fuels your passion for the horse. Passions can be learned and passion is the beginning of change. My hope is that this article will help people gain a better understanding of this animal and inspire them to educate others. Will your passion for the horse change the future for the horse?

With this article I have included the very first of a series of short videos that I hope will inspire and educate people about this wonderful animal called the horse.

 

Mona Weathers
Horse owner of 2, horse-lover of all.

Feel free to pass on this article and video but please provide a link back to HorseApproved.com