Do Horses Negotiate?

Abstract

The two geldings are living in a pasture of one hectare and are sometimes stabled at night. The pair was formed six years ago, when the pony was six months old and the horse, eleven years old. The pony had just been weaned and taken from its mother. The horse had been living alone for several months; certainly it lacked appropriate companionship, in spite of its contact with humans. Very soon, a strong bond developed between the animals. The formation of this “friendship” was immediate, and many behaviors highlight the strength of the bond between the pair.