Horses are amazing creatures that can perform various tricks with ease. Their majestic stature is only dimmed by their ability to perform multitudinous tasks, and one such task is swimming. Yes, horses form a part of the list of land animals that can swim. However, this characteristic also acts as an added responsibility for all equestrian athletes.

A limitation that horses face while swimming is that they cannot breathe through their mouths. Our equine friends are only able to breathe through their noses, which makes taking them swimming a tricky task. This is why when a girl failed to follow proper precautions while her horse was in the water, she was trolled by the internet incessantly.

Viral equestrian video shows young rider committing a blunder

Horses are naturally competent swimmers. Their huge lungs ensure that when in water, they can float easily due to their increased buoyancy. These four-legged beauties also instinctively know how to veer through the water, and they do this by mimicking their trot on land. Hence, they are comfortably able to paddle in the water.

Though, if one has ever seen a horse swim, a common observance would be that they always keep their heads above the water, which is actually necessary for their survival. The placement of their epiglottis ensures that even if they open their mouths, oxygen cannot reach their lungs. A logical consequence that follows is, horses can’t breathe underwater as we humans can. Another important thing to keep in mind is, when horses are in water, they should be provided with the least resistance possible.

Therefore, in case the water is deep enough that there are chances of the horse slipping, a rider should never be present on horseback. These rules are well known in the equestrian community, and all horse owners follow them for the utmost well-being of their equine friends. When a clip showing a young rider breaking these important rules went viral, the equestrian community was none too happy.

Netizens diss young rider for endangering horse

When the viral clip was posted by an Instagram handle with the name @equestrian.ins, the equestrian community was flabbergasted at what took place. In the video, the rider was riding a horse that was completely submerged in water and even went underwater while carrying her weight. A viewer reprimanded the rider, and wrote, “I get scared when I see these kind of videos since horses can’t breathe through their mouths- if they inhale water it gets stuck in their lungs”.

Another commentator said, “Posture is good but please next time if he can’t touch the bottom it’s best not to go to deep…”. Another viewer rightly pointed out, “Please don’t sit on your horse while he’s swimming. Not only is it way more exhausting for the horse, but it puts both you and the horse in danger. You can see the stress in his face when he struggles to stay up. I wish you and your animal the best”.

Read more: “We’ll See Her in the Olympics!”: Viral Video of Young Girl Acing Equestrian Tricks Right From a Year-Old Leaves Netizens in Awe

While the girl was enjoying the horseback ride, it is important for all equestrians to ensure that they know how to care for the animal, before subjecting them to the elements.

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