The Tragic and Beautiful History of the Human-Horse Relationship

The relationship between humans and horses is a thread that runs deep through the fabric of our history. Horses have been by our side for thousands of years, playing a crucial role in humanity’s expansion—helping us conquer the wilderness, navigate rough terrain, and connect with civilizations. We all have to agree that the domestication of the wild horse was one of the most important events in the development of human civilization. Their strength, utility, and endurance significantly influenced the trajectory of human history.

However, despite the vital contributions of horses to our success, the history of the human-horse relationship has been both beautiful and tragic. Throughout time, horses, known for their power and grace, have often been treated as commodities, their worth measured only in terms of utility. This shift in perception has led to mistreatment and cruel practices throughout history.

A History of Tragedy and Injustice

How is it that the noble horse, whose strength helped shape the course of human civilization, has become a victim of cruelty and neglect?

Horses, mules, and donkeys—vital companions during wartime—suffered immense losses, particularly during World War I. An estimated eight million equines died in the war, and only about 200 returned home to the U.S. This should not be forgotten.

World War I Horses

Sadly, even today, horses continue to face similar challenges. Tens of thousands of horses are abused, neglected, and abandoned each year, left in desperate need of rescue, rehabilitation, and re-homing into well-meaning rescues. Horses continue to be treated as a commodity in modern society, and this disregard for their sentient nature puts their welfare in jeopardy. This includes the so-called rescues that make thousands off the backs of these horses by outright lying to giving, horse-loving people who unfortunately trust these people have the welfare of the horses in their best interest, These pathetic types steal money for their own needs leaving legitimate rescues that could use the donations to care for the horses in their care, scraping by.

The Current State of Horses in America

Horses, once indispensable in the development of civilization, have been relegated to the role of a commodity rather than being honored as beings with their own unique needs and desires. In a world that should view horses through the lens of economic growth, their true worth is too often overlooked.

It is time we change this narrative. The future of horses in America depends on our willingness to shift from treating them as mere assets to understanding them as sentient beings capable of forming meaningful relationships with humans. Horses are not just workers or tools; they are companions with their own emotions, needs, and desires.

How We Can Make a Difference

To ensure that horses remain an important and viable part of American life, we must focus on programs with the greatest impact—

Organizations that fight to keep our wild horses wild. To remain on the land that rightfully belongs to them - Congress finds and declares that wild free-roaming horses and burros are living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West; that they contribute to the diversity of life forms within the Nation and enrich the lives of the American people; It is the policy of Congress that wild free-roaming horses and burros shall be protected from capture, branding, harassment, or death; and to accomplish this they are to be considered in the area where presently found, as an integral part of the natural system of the public lands. Let’s fight for this!

Ligament rescues that take in at-risk horses but also provide a haven for older and neglected horses. Additionally, we must create new and innovative opportunities for people to engage with horses, fostering deeper, more meaningful relationships between humans and equines.

The future of horses lies in our hands. By donating to programs that focus on rescuing, rehabilitating, and re-homing horses and by raising awareness of their plight, we can change the fate of these noble creatures. We owe it to them to honor their contributions to humanity by offering them a future filled with compassion, respect, and love.

Join ME in Protecting Wild Horses

As an advocate for the well-being of horses, I am committed to providing resources and education to the public. I strive to protect wild horses from the dangers of inhumane treatment, including roundups and slaughter, and I aim to help individuals understand the importance of preserving the natural bond between horses and humans.

Removed during the E Pershing Roundup- as his family was under the helicopter being pushed into trap, he paused and looked right at me, as if he was begging me to help save his family. I was heartbroken. I need your help to be able to help mustangs like him.

I CAN’T DO IT WITHOUT YOUR HELP

Please help me stay in this fight, consider making a donation today to help me continue my efforts to protect and re-home wild horses in need. Together, we can create a brighter future for horses across America. DONATE