Horses are frequently housed in ways that prevent expression of their natural social and movement behaviors, contributing to stereotypic behaviors and physical health problems in millions of animals.
Companion horse welfare is compromised by housing and management practices that prioritize human convenience over species-specific behavioral needs. Horses in individual stalls for most of the day cannot engage in natural movement, social interaction, or continuous grazing. The consequences are physical — gastric ulcers, laminitis, muscle deterioration — and behavioral — stereotypies that develop as coping mechanisms and persist permanently. The welfare improvements are known: more turnout time, social housing, hay or pasture access, and reduced stall time. Implementing these improvements requires owner education and willingness to prioritize horse welfare over convenience.