The practice of tongue tying horses is a controversial topic for many people. While some argue that it is a necessary procedure to help keep a horse’s mouth in place and prevent serious injury, others view it as cruel and unnecessary. But why do they tongue tie horses? This article will explore the benefits and potential risks associated with tongue tying and provide a better understanding of the procedure.
What is Tongue Tying?
Tongue tying is a procedure in which a vet or experienced horse handler will use a band or tape to tie the horse’s tongue to the lower jaw. This prevents the horse from moving its tongue around, which can be a safety hazard for both the horse and the rider. It also makes it easier for the rider to control the horse’s head movements, and can help to prevent the horse from biting or chewing on the bit.
Benefits of Tongue Tying
There are several benefits to tongue tying horses. The most significant is the prevention of serious injury. By limiting the horse’s ability to move its tongue, it reduces the risk of the tongue being pulled, bitten, or otherwise damaged. This is especially important in horses that are ridden at high speeds, as their tongues can become caught on the bit and cause severe pain and damage.
Tongue tying also makes it easier for the rider to control the horse’s head movements. By limiting the horse’s ability to move its tongue around, it makes it easier for the rider to control the direction and speed of the horse. This can be especially beneficial to riders that are inexperienced or riding horses that are difficult to control.
Finally, tongue tying can help to prevent the horse from biting or chewing on the bit. This is a common problem for horses, as they can become uncomfortable with the bit in their mouth and try to bite or chew it. By limiting the horse’s ability to move its tongue, it makes it more difficult for the horse to bite or chew on the bit.
Potential Risks of Tongue Tying
While there are many benefits to tongue tying horses, there are also potential risks associated with the procedure. One of the primary risks is the potential for infection. If the band or tape used to tie the horse’s tongue is not applied correctly or is not cleaned properly, it can lead to infection.
Another potential risk is discomfort. Horses can be very sensitive to having their tongues tied, and it can be uncomfortable for them. This is especially true if the band or tape is too tight or is applied in the wrong way.
Finally, there is the risk of excessive pressure on the tongue. If the band or tape is applied too tightly or is left on for too long, it can cause excessive pressure on the tongue and lead to serious injury.
Conclusion
Tongue tying horses is a controversial topic, and there are both benefits and potential risks associated with the procedure. The primary benefit is the prevention of serious injury, as it reduces the risk of the horse’s tongue being pulled, bitten, or otherwise damaged. It also makes it easier for the rider to control the horse’s head movements, and can help to prevent the horse from biting or chewing on the bit.
However, there are potential risks associated with tongue tying horses. These include the potential for infection, discomfort, and excessive pressure on the tongue. It is important for vets and experienced horse handlers to be aware of these risks and to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of the horse.