Understanding different horse breeds is essential for anyone interested in equestrian activities or simply appreciating the diversity of the equine world. Each breed has unique characteristics, temperaments, and historical backgrounds that contribute to their distinct appeal. Among the more intriguing breeds is the Big Lick Tennessee Walking Horse, known for its distinctive, smooth gait and impressive show presence.
What Are Big Lick Horses?
The Big Lick Tennessee Walking Horse is a breed of horse renowned for its “Big Lick” gait, a four-beat lateral walk characterized by a high knee action and a rolling motion. This distinctive gait provides a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride, making Big Lick horses popular for pleasure riding, trail riding, and competitive exhibitions.
History and Origin
The Tennessee Walking Horse breed originated in the southeastern United States, specifically in the state of Tennessee. Its roots can be traced back to the colonial era, with early settlers crossing various breeds to develop a horse capable of enduring the rugged terrain and demanding work conditions of the region.
What Are Big Lick Horses
The term “Big Lick” refers to a distinctive and controversial style of gaited horse movement, primarily associated with the Tennessee Walking Horse breed. This gait, characterized by a high-stepping action with exaggerated knee and hock action, has become a subject of debate due to the practices sometimes used to achieve it.
The Big Lick Gait
The Big Lick gait is a smooth, four-beat lateral gait that resembles a running walk. It is known for its distinctive “rolling” action, where the horse’s legs move in a synchronized and exaggerated manner.
Characteristics of the Big Lick Gait
- Four-beat lateral gait
- High-stepping action
- Exaggerated knee and hock action
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Rolling motion
The Big Lick gait is often described as a “flat-foot” gait, meaning that the horse’s feet remain relatively flat on the ground during the stride. This contributes to the smooth and rolling motion.
History and Development of the Big Lick
The Big Lick style emerged in the mid-20th century as a result of selective breeding and training practices aimed at enhancing the Tennessee Walking Horse’s natural gait.
Breeding for Gait
Breeders focused on selecting horses with strong gaits and exaggerated knee and hock action. (See Also: Can Horses Eat Sunflower Plants)
Training Methods
Trainers employed various methods to encourage and refine the Big Lick gait, including the use of mechanical devices and pressure techniques.
Controversy Surrounding the Big Lick
The Big Lick style has been the subject of controversy due to concerns about the welfare of the horses.
Soring
Soring is a practice that involves inflicting pain on a horse’s hooves to encourage an exaggerated gait. It is illegal in many competitions, but it remains a concern in some circles.
Ethical Concerns
Critics argue that the pursuit of the Big Lick gait can lead to physical harm and discomfort for horses, as well as compromising their natural movement.
Regulation and Efforts to Improve Welfare
In response to concerns about soring and horse welfare, various organizations and regulatory bodies have implemented measures to address the issue.
The Horse Protection Act
The Horse Protection Act (HPA) is a federal law in the United States that prohibits soring and other abusive practices.
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ Association
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ Association (TWHBEA) has implemented its own set of rules and regulations to promote ethical practices and horse welfare. (See Also: Sims 4 How To Age Up Horses)
Alternative Gaited Styles
In addition to the Big Lick, there are other gaited styles of Tennessee Walking Horses that do not involve the same level of exaggeration or potential for abuse.
The “Flat Shod” Gait
The “Flat Shod” gait is a more natural and less exaggerated version of the Tennessee Walking Horse gait.
The “Racking” Gait
The “Racking” gait is another popular gaited style that is known for its smooth and comfortable ride.
Conclusion
The Big Lick style of gaited horse movement has a long and controversial history. While it is admired by some for its distinctive appearance and smooth ride, it has also been criticized for its potential to cause harm to horses. Efforts to regulate and improve horse welfare in the Big Lick community are ongoing.
Understanding the history, characteristics, and controversies surrounding the Big Lick style is essential for appreciating the complexities of this unique gaited horse movement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Lick Horses
What is a Big Lick Horse?
A Big Lick horse is a type of Tennessee Walking Horse that is known for its distinctive, exaggerated “running walk” gait. This gait is characterized by a high knee lift and a rolling motion, giving the impression of a horse “flying” over the ground. (See Also: Can Horses Eat Cake)
What causes the Big Lick gait?
The Big Lick gait is achieved through training methods that involve the use of special equipment, such as shoes with heel lifts and chains or pads that are attached to the horse’s legs. These tools are designed to encourage the horse to lift its legs higher and create the rolling motion.
Is the Big Lick gait natural?
The Big Lick gait is not a naturally occurring gait in Tennessee Walking Horses. It is a result of training and the use of artificial aids. Some people argue that the gait is unnatural and can be harmful to the horse’s health.
What are the ethical concerns surrounding Big Lick training?
There are significant ethical concerns surrounding Big Lick training, primarily because it can involve the use of painful and abusive methods. Some trainers use whips, chains, and other tools to force the horse into the exaggerated gait, which can cause pain, injury, and psychological distress.
Are there alternatives to Big Lick training?
Yes, there are alternatives to Big Lick training. Many trainers and breeders focus on developing the natural running walk gait of the Tennessee Walking Horse without the use of artificial aids. These horses are often referred to as “naturally gaited” or “flat shod” Tennessee Walking Horses.
