Ever wondered why racehorses often have companion horses, also known as "buddy horses," by their side? If you own a racehorse or are just fascinated by the world of equestrian sports, it's essential to understand the unique bond that forms between racehorses and their buddies. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons behind this interesting phenomenon and share some heartwarming examples.
Why Do Race Horses Have A Buddy Horse Table of Contents
What is a Buddy Horse?
A buddy horse, also known as a companion horse or a pony horse, is a stablemate to a racehorse who provides emotional and psychological support. These companion animals can be horses, ponies, or even goats. The main goal is to create a calming friend who can help ease the racehorse's stress and anxiety during their daily routines and training.
Why Do Racehorses Need a Buddy?
Racehorses are high-energy, majestic creatures bred for speed and agility. However, this athletic prowess comes with a trade-off - they can be highly strung, sensitive, and anxious animals. Stress is commonplace in a racehorse's daily life, and having a buddy horse by their side helps them cope with the intense pressures they face.
Stress Reduction
The primary reason for buddy horses is to alleviate stress in racehorses. The racing circuit is intense, with travel to different tracks, strict workout schedules, and the pressure of performing. A buddy horse offers companionship, ensuring a racehorse can settle into new environments with ease.
Socialization
Horses are naturally social creatures, and they need the company of other horses to thrive. A buddy horse offers companionship and emotional stability, which is vital for a racehorse's overall well-being as they navigate the demanding world of racing.
Safety and Control
An experienced companion horse can offer a steadying influence on a younger or more excitable racehorse. This partnership helps to minimize risks during training and trackwork, ensuring both horses remain safe and sound, thus avoiding accidents and injuries.
Choosing the Right Buddy Horse
Finding the perfect buddy horse is crucial, as their personality and temperament must complement that of the racehorse. The ideal companion should be patient, calm, and gentle, able to offer a calming presence through all the challenges racehorses face. Experienced older horses or retired racehorses often make great buddies, as they are already familiar with the racing environment.
Why Do Race Horses Have A Buddy Horse Example:
One famous example of a thriving buddy horse relationship is the bond between 2015 Triple Crown winner American Pharoah and his companion Smokey the pony. Smokey was a calming and reliable presence for American Pharoah, accompanying him to all his races and training sessions. Smokey even had his own Twitter account and fan club, celebrating this special equine friendship.
Another heartwarming example is that of Australian champion racehorse Winx and her goat companion, Patrick. The two were inseparable and spent lots of time together in the paddock and stalls. Patrick provided companionship and emotional support for Winx, helping her manage the stress and high-stakes of her racing career.
As we've explored, racehorses and their buddy horses share a truly unique and invaluable bond. These companion animals play a vital role in offering emotional support and reassurance to racehorses, helping them excel in their high-pressure profession. If you're interested in learning more about horses and the fascinating world of horse ownership, be sure to browse our selection of articles and guides at How to Own a Horse. And don't forget to share this fascinating insight into racehorse companions with your fellow horse lovers!
