No Horsing Around - These Are The BEST Service Animals Ever

Mini horses are gaining popularity as guide animals for visually impaired individuals. These hooved companions are able to provide as much service as dog and then some. According to the Guide Horse Foundation, there are several significant benefits to choosing a horse as a service animal. Don’t believe us? Read on…

 

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1. They live 3 times as long as dogs.

 

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Mini horses can live to be more than 50 years old! As everyone knows, the worst part of owning an animal is when the animal passes. With a mini horse, you’ll have a closer-to-lifelong companion.

2. They’re sturdy.

 

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Mini horses provide a four-legged support system for individuals with physical disabilities as well. They’re strong and solid enough that using them as support stands, or leaning on them when going down stairs isn’t a concern.

3. They’re hypoallergenic.

 

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Being allergic to dogs is an unfortunate reality for many people. A horse just might be the ideal way to have a service animal without sacrificing one’s nasal canals.

4. They have awesome sight lines.

 

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Not only can horses see really well in the dark, but their range of vision is almost 350 degrees. Additionally, they can use each eye individually to look out of obstacles on either side. That’s some serious added value when you’re relying on them to lead the way!

5. They’re in it for the long haul.

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Trained mini horses have high physical stamina that allows them to travel for long stretches at a time without getting tired.

6. They’re calm and safety-conscious.

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Guide horses are trained in a way that gives them a similar demeanor to riot-control horses—calm and cool no matter the situation. Horses are also always on the look out for danger, making them perfect for spotting potential obstacles.

7. They’re clean.

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Guide horses only shed twice a year, unlike dogs who are constantly shedding. Plus, they don’t get fleas!

       ** Bonus: They wear little shoes

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Come on! Even though this isn’t one of the benefits listed by the Guide Horse Foundation, it probably should be.

If you or someone you know is in the market for a service animal, it might be smart to expand the search beyond the usual canine companions. They may be mini, but these horses have a huge amount to offer.