As the world develops, industrialization becomes more and more modern and machines are gradually replacing many jobs. However, you will still often see the image of hardworking horse “workers” on the farm. Is there any contradiction between using animal traction and applying modern technology in agriculture?
People often say that “horses are man’s loyal friend”. This saying is not just a folk song or proverb but also contains a long-standing culture. Even today, when a series of modern machines are born, horses always accompany people on all farms. So let’s find out the truth behind why do we use horses on the ranch in the modern age of machines like today with Raxin Horse!
Why Do We Use Horses on the Ranch?
Surely this is the question of many people when they accidentally see horses on the farm. Why don’t we replace horses with an ATV to have faster speed, and carry more things without too much care? Or why horses, not other healthy animals?
In fact, the culture of using horses on the farm has existed for a long time. Horses are an indispensable part of the farming culture originating from the Old West. This is not simply a long-standing tradition, using horses on the farm also brings many great benefits in terms of livestock farming and the environment. Horses will contribute to creating a friendly and sustainable farm.
Benefits of Using Horses on the Ranch
To help you better understand why do we use horses on the ranch, let’s take a closer look at the great benefits that horse “farm workers” bring:
Herding
One of the best benefits of using horses on the farm is increased herding efficiency. First, horses are animals, so they are definitely more “friendly” to livestock than machines. Livestock are often raised in large, isolated areas, so they are not used to the noise of machinery. An ATV will cause panic among livestock, but horses will not.
Therefore, using horses will create a more natural and friendly environment for livestock. Horses also help reduce stress in livestock. Cattle will be more comfortable around horses than around an ATV. Besides, the herder will be more visible when sitting on horseback thanks to the height of the horse. This will help the livestock be more docile and easier to navigate.
Next, horses will help create an ideal living environment for your livestock. Horses tend to move more slowly, preventing livestock from panicking and running away, limiting injuries, and supporting overall health. Using horses will indirectly improve the quality of cattle meat.
In addition, you may not know that horses are “skilled cattle herders”. Horses are sensitive, have better vision and hearing than humans. You will be surprised to know that horses can find cattle faster than the cattle herder can find them. Another advantage is that horses can move in some areas that are difficult to access by off-road vehicles.
Land Management
Another reason why we use horses on the ranch is that horses can help manage the land. Horses are considered friendly gardeners. The horse’s hooves help aerate the ground and promote grass growth, which is beneficial for both the livestock and the farm environment. In addition, horses eat weeds, so they can help reduce weeds without having to be cleaned up as often.
Transportation
Horses also help transport goods, agricultural products, fertilizers, or agricultural equipment over terrain that is difficult for vehicles to access. Traveling over difficult terrain on horses is easier and more fuel-efficient than ATVs.
Environmentally friendly
When it comes to why do we use horses on the ranch, the environmental benefits are undeniable. Compared to off-road vehicles or machinery, horses produce fewer emissions. When we use horses instead of cars, we can reduce our carbon footprint and limit our negative impact on the environment. Raising horses also requires only natural materials, so there are no emissions like when operating machinery.
Biodiversity
Last but not least, the benefit is the conservation of species and biodiversity. Using horses on farms will help create a more diverse ecosystem, which is favorable for livestock to thrive. Not only that, using horses also contributes to the conservation of local horse breeds and maintains the skills related to raising and training horses.
Important Considerations When Using Horses on the Ranch
In addition to why do we use horses on the ranch, many people are also concerned about whether there are any precautions to take when using horses. Here are some things you need to consider to use horses effectively on your farm.
Horse Health
The first and most important thing when using horses on the ranch is that you need to care about the health of this four-legged friend. Horses need to be provided with adequate food, clean water, and necessary fiber. Horse food should be diverse to ensure their health and development. You can supplement fiber for horses with fruits such as oranges, apples, strawberries, etc.
You also need to clean the barn regularly to ensure hygiene and limit infectious diseases affecting horses. Don’t forget to take your horse for regular health check-ups to detect and treat diseases promptly.
Labor Safety
When using horses on the farm, you also need to understand their temperament and safety conditions when contacting or training them. People working with horses need to be thoroughly trained in how to interact with, control, and care for them. Limit yelling or beating horses because it can make them panic and endanger people.
Appropriate Working Regime
Like any worker, horses also need appropriate working regimes. You must plan specific work and divide time reasonably to avoid overloading the horse. If you find that the horse is injured or tired, foaming at the mouth, you need to let it rest immediately. Don’t forget to check tools such as saddles, reins, and halters to make sure they are secure and safe.
Wrap Up
Now you have the answer to why do we use horses on the ranch, right? Using horses on the ranch brings more wonderful benefits than you think. The horse “workers” will create a natural, friendly, and sustainable farm environment. Hopefully, we will continue to maintain this traditional culture, and don’t forget to cherish the precious horse!
