Changes in our social and professional lives during the pandemic impacted many of our relationships — for better or worse. The equine-human bond was no exception.
For those lucky enough to keep their horses at home, the break from commuting to an outside job meant more time to spend with their equine buddies. But for many folks with horses stabled elsewhere, COVID-19 restrictions to access caused frustration and even depression. Beyond missing them, owners worried that their horses might suffer from lack of exercise and attention.
Some owners had to surrender their horses when they couldn’t afford the food, board and health care. In turn, rescue organizations had to make tough decisions about which ones could be saved.
The good news is that in general, as restrictions have wound down, the equine-human bond has emerged stronger than ever.