The Responsibility of a Prospective Kaimanawa Wild Horse Owner
I am writing this article because I believe that I am in many ways, uniquely placed to comment on the decision to give a home to a Kaimanawa Wild Horse. I have been involved in the handling and relocation of some 70 or so of these amazing horses since 1997.
The decision to take a Kaimanawa Wild Horse is a serious one and before any prospective owner considers taking on this responsibility, there are some very important issues that should be considered.
The new owner has a moral responsibility to ensure that the horses needs, both emotionally and physically are met - this has a life long consequence for the horse!
It is not enough to offer a home because you may feel emotional about the plight of Kaimanawa Horses (although this is admirable), unfortunately many dozens of horses from this situation have ended up going to slaughter after having lived in captivity for several years when they:
- haven't been handled correctly and become unmanageable
- they mature - in the case of foals
- the owner loses interest
- the costs involved in the upkeep of the horse/s becomes a burden
Foals in particular are extremely vulnerable. They look so cute and also because of their size, are popular. It must be remembered that in the wild, they will live with their mothers for at least 2 years, while also forming a very strong bond with their peers and other members of the band. When the foal is abruptly removed from both his mother and his peers, such as the muster, the foal is in both emotional and physical shock (This practice should be stopped as this is a serious animal welfare issue). Foals and mothers should be re-homed together whenever practically possible.
The foal's first years of life are critical for their development and he must have the company of other horses, so he can learn to be a horse. A youngster which has been deprived of this will end up confused and unable to communicate with his own kind, resulting in behaviour problems.
All Kaimanawa Wild Horses living in their natural state form very strong bonds within their band, which are life long. The horse's most basic need is to be with other horses - they are a herd animal.
They also need enough space to move around - the youngsters especially need space so that they can run around and play. It's not exactly fair to take a horse's freedom and expect him to be happy in a small confined area.
Similar to people, each horse is different and therefore needs to be treated individually.
Given the right living conditions and sensible stress-free handling, these special horses will become wonderful, trusting friends that never cease to delight you.
Article by Robin Sisley
