Companionship
Horses, ponies and donkeys are extremely sociable creatures. Their sense of security is based on being part of a herd and in an uncertain situation they will stick with their group at all costs. Equines also make one or two close friends within the herd who they will stay close to and spend time grooming or playing with.
Donkeys in particular establish very strong relationships and should never be kept alone. Many horses and ponies do adapt to a solitary life, but owners and carers should be aware that lack of equine company must be compensated for in some way. Other animals, such as sheep or cows can create a ‘herd’ environment, but elements of interaction such as mutual grooming will still be missing. Without other forms of company, humans will become the only herd an equine has, and time spent with the single horse at ground level becomes especially important.
At Redwings all our horses, ponies, donkeys and mules are kept in herds and we find they quickly form very strong bonds with their field mates, often forming the most unlikely pairings.
