Horses are
most happy, and healthiest, when they can live with members of their own
species. Horses are herd animals and
rely on their herds for safety from predators, and for companionship. Imagine spending your life with no one to
talk to and the impact that might have on your emotional health after a while. Unfortunately it is not always possible to
maintain more than one horse and should you find yourself only able to keep one
horse on your property, consider getting a friend to keep him company. Here are a few suggestions:
- Another equine – If you can’t keep a full-size horse on your property, the next best thing is another small equine. Miniature horses make great companions for full-size horses, as do ponies and even burros.
- Goats – Horses and goats seem to enjoy each other’s company. Both are herd animals and have similar habits and attitudes about life.
- Dogs – Not all horses like dogs and not all dogs appreciate the company of a horse. However, if you have a dog and horse that get along, let them spend as much time together as possible.
- Cats – Some horses love their feline friends and some cats even like horses. Cats have been known to cuddle up on the backs of horses, most likely for the warmth. Depending on the horse, this “cuddling” may be most welcome.
- Humans – You can do a lot to help your horse ease its loneliness just by spending time with him. For many horses, human companionship is the next best thing to that of another horse.
Michael
P.S. Pictured above is one of my own horses, Diego, with one of his canine friends.