Miniature horses guiding you in the right direction
Horses are natural guide animals and have been guiding humans for centuries. Many blind people ride horses in equestrian competitions. Some blind people ride alone on trails for many miles, completely relying on the horse to guide them safely to their destination.
A miniature guide horse is ideal for blind people who is allergic to, or afraid of dogs and who loves horses. A guide horse has a gentle nature and is therefore ideal for people with physical disabilities. They live longer than dogs (30 - 40 years) and they do not have to sleep in the house. Horses are not addicted to human attention and normally do not get excited when petted or groomed. They do not get fleas and only shed twice per year.
Miniature guide horses have a phenomenal memory and a very wide range of vision. Horses can see clearly in almost total darkness. Trained horses are very focused on their work, are not easily distracted and has the ability to stay calm in any situation. Naturally safety oriented, horses are constantly on the lookout for danger. All horses have a natural instinct to guide their master along the safest most efficient route. They can also travel far distances in a single outing.
Many people do not associate a horse as being a pet, and therefor they will be instantly recognized as a working animal. Horses are not addicted to human attention and normally do not get excited when petted or groomed.
If the shoe fits...
Even though their hooves are far stronger than the soft pads of a guide dog, a Guide Horse must have traction on slick surfaces and protects their feet from hot surfaces or sharp objects on the ground.
www.guidehorse.org
Great article. My friend has a mini horse (guide) after going through several dog guides she choosed to be partnered with a horse guide. Thanks for sharing.
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