History, Uses, and Terminology Equine Science History, Uses, and Terminology
History Horses traveled to the Americas with Columbus on his second voyage. They were necessary for transportation and to carry the early Spaniards on their expeditions. The horses that escaped or were abandoned reverted to a wild state and increased in numbers to become the mustang bands found by early adventurers and Native Americans as they moved west.
History (cont.) Horses contributed much to the early colonization of America. As agriculture developed, larger horses were introduced and these gradually replaced oxen as the preferred draft animals.
Uses of the HORSE through history As a source of Food In 2014, horse slaughter was made illegal in the U.S.
Military purposes Chariots, knights in armor, cavalry
Past time & sports Olympic Games, races
A new era of recreation and sports Rodeos, Horse Shows, Races
Agricultural & commercial uses
Transportation
Horse Terminology ACTION – how a horse moves its feet and legs COLT – A male foal CONFORMATION – structure, form, & symmetrical arrangement of parts DAM – the femal parent of a horse DRAFT HORSE – a large horse used for pulling; 15 – 17 hands, over 1500 lbs
Horse Terminology EQUITATION – the art of riding horseback FARRIER – a horse shoer FILLY – an immature female horse (up to 3 years) Foal - GELDING – a castrated male horse HAND – a unit of measurement; 4 inches
Horse Terminology HORSEMANSHIP – are of riding a horse and understanding it’s needs LIGHT HORSE - any horse used primarily for riding or driving, all breeds except draft, 14.2-16 hands, 900-1,300 lbs. MARE – a mature female horse PONY – a mature horse under 14.2 hands SIRE – the male parent of a horse STALLION – a mature male horse
Today’s Horse Types Draft, Light, and Pony
Donkey/Mule Terminology ASS – the correct term for the animal commonly known as a donkey JACK – the male Ass JENNET – the female Ass DONKEY – English term for Ass MULE – cross between a Jack and a female horse HINNY – cross between a Jennet and a male horse