7 Insane Horse Facts You Didn’t Know!
You already know plenty about horses, or you wouldn’t be reading this. But you might not know everything.
So, let’s have some fun today and dive into a few horse facts that may have slipped right by you.
1) Huge Eyes
Horses have the largest eyes of any land mammal on earth, eight times bigger than humans! Plus, with eyes on the side of their head, they can see 350 degrees around themselves!
So there’s no excuse to miss that jump next time.
2) Healing Powers
When it comes to types of emotional support animals, equine love can make a big difference. A horse that functions as an ESA can lower blood pressure in its owner and keep them calm in stressful situations.
Time spent bonding with a horse through physical care and touch leads to an increase of positive hormones in the brain, which can assist in overcoming anxiety and depression.
3) Only One Way to Breathe
Horses can only breathe through their nose, not through their mouth. No wonder you catch your mare eating and eating without coming up for a breath!
They will also time out their breath to a gallop, taking in a breath with every stride — they are beasts built to run.
4) The Human Partnership Goes Back a Loooong Time
Some studies report horse domestication started as early as 5,500 years ago around modern-day Kazakhstan.
These ancient peoples developed early reins and bridles and were the first to ride on horseback. But they also made a fermented drink out of horse milk (it’s okay if you want to pass on that one).
The look and shape we associate with modern domestic equines started thousands of years ago when selective breeding began. It is no wonder history and horses are so intertwined.
5) They Toss and Turn
It is a widely held myth that horses all sleep standing up. While their muscles and tendons can lock up to preserve energy in a standing position, they will lay down in a nice pile of hay and take it easy for deep sleep.
Don’t be alarmed next time you see a horse taking a snooze on its side; it’s just time for some Black Beauty sleep!
6) Horse Hooves Don’t Stop Growing
Equine feet consist of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and fingernails. And like hair, it won’t stop growing without a trim! In nature, their hooves naturally get worn down as they run around, but they require regularly scheduled shaving sessions at the farm.
In the event of an accident, a horse will fully regrow their hoof in 8 to 12 months.
7) The 17.5 Inch Horse
You may already be familiar with the world’s largest steed, Sampson, who grew to a massive 7 ft 2 inch!
But have you heard of Thumbelina? This tiny horse measured only 17.5 inches tall — that’s less than five hands. She was a miniature horse from Missouri who came from a farm that bred minis. Despite her small stature, Thumbelina lived a long and happy life from 2001 to 2018. Plus, she never had to worry about carrying anyone on her back!
Conclusion
How many of these facts did you already know? Are there any we missed?
It is always surprising to learn a fresh fact about our best friends. Even when you spend all day in the stable and at the farm, our equine friends still surprise us. Who knows what we will learn next?
