Introduction
The passionate dedication of those who love horses is undeniable, often leading them to be referred to as “horse lovers.” However, Dr. Robert M. Miller, DVM, in his insightful article, delves into a more complex reality, questioning whether certain practices within the equine industry truly align with the spirit of loving and caring for these magnificent animals. This piece examines the disconnect between the affectionate label and the actions that can lead to premature injury, suffering, and a compromised quality of life for horses across various disciplines. From the high-stakes world of racing to the show ring, concerning trends emerge that prioritize performance, profit, and vanity over the fundamental well-being of the horse.
The Dark Side of Performance: Racing and Futurities
The racing industry, in particular, has been highlighted for practices that push equine athletes beyond their physical limits. The tragic breakdown of Barbaro at the Preakness, a widely publicized event, serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks. Dr. Miller explains that the intense selective breeding for speed has created athletic abilities that often outstrip the horse’s natural anatomical resilience. This is further compounded by the practice of training and racing young horses before they are fully mature. He draws a parallel to young gymnasts, noting the potential for significant and lasting damage to developing bodies.
Historically, cowboys started colts at four years of age or older, with ranch horses remaining sound well into their twenties. The advent of “futurities” in disciplines like cutting and reining, where three-year-old horses compete, raises serious concerns. Dr. Miller recounts a conversation with Swedish veterinarians who were shocked by the extreme performance expected from such young horses, questioning the toll on their legs. Despite efforts to advocate for delayed training, the allure of early success and financial gain often overrides these concerns, leading veterinarians to be the primary voices of protest against these premature practices.
Corruption in the Show Ring
The principles behind horse shows, originally conceived to “improve the breed,” have, according to Dr. Miller, been corrupted by human nature, vanity, and greed. In Western Pleasure classes, stock horses are often shown in a manner that drastically increases the stress on their forelimbs, a far cry from their working origins. The Tennessee Walking Horse faces a similar plight, with distorted gaits and shoeing practices that can only be described as grotesque.
Further disturbing examples include surgically altered tails and the use of drugs like atropine to dilate pupils, creating an unnatural appearance for Saddlebreds. The article also touches upon endurance racing, where the intense desire to win can lead to horses being pushed to their breaking point, necessitating frequent veterinary checks to prevent fatalities. These practices, while perhaps not universally condemned by all within the show community, paint a picture of an industry where the pursuit of ribbons and recognition can overshadow genuine care.
Broader Abuses and a Call for Reflection
Beyond the high-profile sports, Dr. Miller addresses other common abuses that affect horses across all breeds and disciplines. He questions the practice of weaning foals as early as three months, a timeline nature did not intend. The confinement of horses, a naturally gregarious species, in solitary box stalls is also highlighted as detrimental. Furthermore, “excessive” nutrition, a problem mirroring human health issues, is cited as a cause of damage to the health of many horses.
A client’s casual admission, “We know how cruel he is to the horses, but he wins!” when referring to a brutal trainer, encapsulates the disturbing prioritization of winning over welfare. The article also exposes illicit practices like the surgical paralyzing of tails in reining horses to prevent them from switching, and the use of unapproved tranquilizers. Dr. Miller suggests a “conspiracy” within the horse show industry, where trainers often serve as judges, creating a system of mutual back-scratching.
Hope for the Future: The Mule Community
A glimmer of hope emerges from the mule community, who, according to Dr. Miller, have largely resisted the trend of exaggerated gaits seen in Western Pleasure classes. Their decision to “balk at it and rule it out” is commended as an example of prioritizing the horse’s well-being. The article concludes with a powerful sentiment: “to be a mule lover, you REALLY gotta love horses!” This suggests that a true appreciation for equines, regardless of their specific breed or role, should lead to practices that honor their nature and ensure their long-term health and soundness.
This article originally appeared in the Fall 2006 edition of “Cowboy Magazine.”
Editor’s Note: Dr. Robert M. Miller, DVM, offers numerous horse seminars globally. He, alongside Ron Fuller, DVM, presents the 7th annual Equine Adventure in New Zealand in November 2006, featuring tours, farm visits, vet schools, training centers, and more. For details, visit http://www.robertmmiller.com or contact Ron Fuller at (740) 344-3061.
© 2006 Robert M. Miller, DVM. Used with permission by Equine-Reproduction.com, LLC.
