Were Horses treated well?
Horses were not just working horses. In many families horses were part of the family. Horses were treated very well in the families. They always gave their horses nice names. Some times they gave their horses names similar to other family members names or the same as other members names. Often horses would be in the family picture. Horses would be as if they were part of the family more than just a pet.
What are draft horses and what are they used for?
A special type of horse is most often used for work. That horse is a draft horse. Draft horses are used for work that requires a stronger animal. Draft horses are larger and stronger than other horses. A Clydesdale is a common draft horse, because of their large size and strong muscles. If a heavier item needs to be moved they usually use a draft horse to carry the heavy load.
Why do horses wear horseshoes?
Horseshoes were very important and still are. Horseshoes are used to protect the horses hoof when they are riding on the hard roads or gravel. Horse shoes also help the horse stay more balanced when someone is riding it. Some horses have special shoes if the their leg is hurt. Most wild horses don't wear shoes. Since most don't they normally walk on soft grass, sand, or dirt. If wild horses walk on harder ground there is a chance that their hoof might crack or break with no shoes. Some people prefer their horse to go with no shoes or "barefoot" to create better circulation in the horses foot. When horses are barefoot their hoof should be trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks. Sometimes going barefoot helps flex the foot better.
