What is big lick horse abuse?

Quick Peek:

Big lick horse abuse is a cruel and controversial training method used in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry. It involves the use of painful chemicals, heavy shoes, and chains to force horses to perform an exaggerated gait called the “big lick.” This practice causes severe pain and discomfort to horses, leading to long-term injuries and even death. As horse enthusiasts, we have a responsibility to raise awareness about this issue and promote a more humane treatment of horses. There are alternative activities such as trail riding, dressage, jumping, western pleasure, and natural horsemanship that prioritize horse welfare and ethical riding practices.

Understanding the Basics of Big Lick Horse Abuse

If you’re a horse enthusiast like me, you know how majestic and beautiful these creatures are. Horses are intelligent, sensitive, and loyal animals that deserve our love and respect. Unfortunately, not everyone shares this view, and some people engage in abusive practices that harm horses physically and emotionally. One of the most controversial and cruel practices in the horse industry is known as big lick horse abuse.

What is big lick horse abuse, you may ask? In simple terms, it’s a training method used in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry that involves the use of heavy shoes, chains, and painful chemicals to force horses to perform an exaggerated gait called the “big lick.” This gait is not natural for horses and can cause them severe pain and discomfort, leading to long-term injuries and even death.

As a horse rider with over 20 years of experience, I have seen the devastating effects of big lick horse abuse firsthand. Horses that are subjected to this practice often suffer from physical ailments such as sore muscles, joint problems, and lameness. They also experience emotional trauma, as they are forced to endure pain and fear in order to please their trainers and win competitions.

Many people who defend big lick horse abuse argue that it’s a tradition and a legitimate form of competition. However, this argument falls short when we consider the ethical implications of this practice. Horses are not objects or machines that can be manipulated and exploited for human entertainment. They are living beings with their own needs, desires, and feelings, and they deserve to be treated with kindness and compassion.

So, what can we do to stop big lick horse abuse and promote a more humane treatment of horses? The first step is to raise awareness about this issue and educate people about the harmful effects of this practice. We can also support organizations that advocate for animal welfare and lobby for stricter regulations in the horse industry.

As horse enthusiasts, we have a responsibility to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Let’s work together to create a world where horses are treated with the love and respect they deserve, and where big lick horse abuse is a thing of the past.

The Dark Side of Big Lick Horse Shows: Cruelty and Abuse

What is Big Lick Horse Abuse?

Big lick horse abuse refers to the cruel and inhumane practices that occur in the training and showing of horses for the big lick gait. This gait is achieved through the use of painful and abusive techniques such as the use of caustic chemicals, chains, and heavy shoes.

The Use of Caustic Chemicals

One of the most common forms of abuse in big lick horse shows is the use of caustic chemicals. These chemicals are applied to the horse’s legs to burn the skin and create a painful reaction that forces the horse to lift its legs higher. This practice is not only painful but can also cause long-term damage to the horse’s legs.

The Use of Chains and Heavy Shoes

Another form of abuse in big lick horse shows is the use of chains and heavy shoes. These devices are attached to the horse’s legs to create a heavier step and a more exaggerated gait. This practice not only causes pain and discomfort to the horse but can also lead to long-term damage to the horse’s joints and bones.

The Impact of Big Lick Horse Abuse

The impact of big lick horse abuse goes beyond the physical harm caused to the horse. It also has a significant impact on the mental and emotional well-being of the animal. Horses that are subjected to abuse and cruelty often suffer from anxiety, fear, and stress. This can lead to behavioral issues and a reduced quality of life for the animal.

The Need for Change

It is clear that big lick horse abuse is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. The use of caustic chemicals, chains, and heavy shoes is not only cruel but also unnecessary. There are alternative training methods that can achieve the same results without causing harm to the horse.

Conclusion

In conclusion, big lick horse shows may seem like a glamorous event, but the reality is far from it. The use of abusive techniques such as the use of caustic chemicals, chains, and heavy shoes is not only cruel but also unnecessary. It is time for the industry to change and adopt more humane training methods that prioritize the well-being of the horse. As horse enthusiasts, we have a responsibility to speak out against these practices and advocate for change.

The Physical and Emotional Toll of Big Lick Horse Abuse on Horses

Big lick horse abuse is a cruel practice that inflicts both physical and emotional harm on horses. The horses are forced to perform an unnatural gait, which involves lifting their front legs high off the ground while their back legs remain firmly planted. This is achieved through the use of painful training methods, including the application of caustic chemicals to the horse’s legs, the use of chains and weights, and the use of harsh bits and spurs.

The physical toll of big lick horse abuse on horses is significant. The unnatural gait puts a great deal of strain on the horse’s legs, joints, and muscles, which can lead to chronic pain and injury. Horses that are subjected to this type of abuse often suffer from lameness, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal disorders. The use of caustic chemicals on the horse’s legs can cause burns and other skin irritations, which can lead to infection and other complications.

The emotional toll of big lick horse abuse on horses is equally significant. Horses are social animals that thrive on companionship and human interaction. When they are subjected to cruel and abusive training methods, they can become fearful, anxious, and stressed. They may become withdrawn and unresponsive, or they may become aggressive and unpredictable. This can make them difficult to handle and can pose a danger to both themselves and their handlers.

In addition to the physical and emotional toll of big lick horse abuse on horses, there is also a moral and ethical dimension to this practice. Horses are living beings that deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. They should not be subjected to cruel and abusive training methods for the sake of human entertainment or profit. The use of big lick horse abuse is a clear violation of animal welfare standards and should be banned.

It is important for horse enthusiasts and the general public to be aware of the physical and emotional toll of big lick horse abuse on horses. By raising awareness and advocating for change, we can help to put an end to this cruel and inhumane practice. We can also support organizations that work to rescue and rehabilitate horses that have been subjected to this type of abuse.

In conclusion, big lick horse abuse is a cruel and inhumane practice that inflicts both physical and emotional harm on horses. It is important for us to speak out against this practice and to advocate for change. We must work together to ensure that horses are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. By doing so, we can create a world where horses are valued and cherished for the magnificent creatures they are.

The Role of Horse Industry and Lawmakers in Ending Big Lick Horse Abuse

As a horse enthusiast, I have been riding horses for over 20 years and have seen firsthand the beauty and grace these animals possess. However, there is a dark side to the horse industry that cannot be ignored – big lick horse abuse. This cruel and inhumane practice involves the use of painful devices on the horse’s front feet to create an exaggerated gait known as the “big lick.” This unnatural movement is highly prized in the show ring and has led to the widespread abuse of horses in the industry.

Thankfully, there are organizations and lawmakers who are working to end this abusive practice. The Humane Society of the United States has been at the forefront of the fight against big lick horse abuse. They have launched numerous campaigns and investigations to expose the cruelty of this practice and have successfully lobbied for stricter laws and regulations.

In addition to the Humane Society, many individuals and organizations within the horse industry are speaking out against big lick horse abuse. The United States Equestrian Federation, which oversees all horse shows in the country, has taken a strong stance against the use of abusive devices in the show ring. They have implemented strict regulations and penalties for those who violate their rules.

However, despite these efforts, big lick horse abuse still persists in some areas of the industry. This is where lawmakers come in. In recent years, there have been several bills introduced in Congress to strengthen animal welfare laws and increase penalties for those who engage in big lick horse abuse. These bills have gained widespread support from both Democrats and Republicans and have the potential to make a real difference in the fight against animal cruelty.

But it’s not just lawmakers who have a role to play in ending big lick horse abuse. As consumers, we have the power to demand change. By choosing not to support horse shows that allow the use of abusive devices, we can send a strong message to the industry that this practice is unacceptable. We can also support organizations that are working to end big lick horse abuse through donations and volunteering.

In conclusion, big lick horse abuse is a cruel and inhumane practice that has no place in the horse industry. Thanks to the efforts of organizations like the Humane Society and the United States Equestrian Federation, as well as lawmakers and concerned individuals, progress is being made in the fight against this abusive practice. But there is still much work to be done. By working together, we can put an end to big lick horse abuse and ensure that all horses are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Alternatives to Big Lick Horse Shows: Promoting Horse Welfare and Ethical Riding Practices

Trail Riding

One of the best alternatives to big lick shows is trail riding. This activity allows riders to enjoy the great outdoors while also giving their horses a break from the arena. Trail riding can be done alone or with a group, and there are plenty of trails available for riders of all levels. Not only is trail riding a great way to bond with your horse, but it also promotes physical and mental health for both rider and horse.

Dressage

Dressage is a highly technical and precise form of horse riding that emphasizes communication between horse and rider. Unlike big lick shows, which focus on flashy gaits, dressage emphasizes the horse’s natural movement and encourages a harmonious partnership between horse and rider. Dressage is a great way to improve your riding skills and bond with your horse, all while promoting ethical riding practices.

Jumping

Jumping is another alternative to big lick shows that promotes horse welfare and ethical riding practices. This activity involves jumping over a series of obstacles, and requires both horse and rider to work together in order to succeed. Jumping is a great way to improve your horse’s physical fitness and coordination, and can also be a fun and exciting way to bond with your horse.

Western Pleasure

Western pleasure is a form of horse riding that emphasizes the horse’s natural movement and encourages a relaxed and calm demeanor. Unlike big lick shows, which often involve harsh training methods and exaggerated gaits, western pleasure focuses on creating a harmonious partnership between horse and rider. Western pleasure is a great way to improve your riding skills and promote ethical riding practices.

Natural Horsemanship

Natural horsemanship is a philosophy of horse training that emphasizes communication and trust between horse and rider. This approach to horse training is based on the horse’s natural instincts and behaviors, and encourages riders to work with their horses in a way that is both respectful and effective. Natural horsemanship is a great way to improve your horsemanship skills and promote ethical riding practices.

In conclusion, there are plenty of alternatives to big lick horse shows that promote horse welfare and ethical riding practices. Whether you prefer trail riding, dressage, jumping, western pleasure, or natural horsemanship, there is an activity out there for you and your horse. By choosing to participate in activities that prioritize the health and well-being of your horse, you are helping to promote a more ethical and compassionate approach to horse riding.