Here's why it's not accurate to talk about horses "loving" in the human sense:
* No emotional complexity: Horses lack the complex emotional capacity for romantic love. Their bonds are driven by instinct, safety, and shared resources.
* Different mating systems: Horses have a polygamous mating system, where stallions mate with multiple mares. This behavior is driven by evolutionary pressures and doesn't involve the kind of monogamous commitment associated with love.
* No concept of "forever": Horses don't have the same concept of time as humans. They don't understand the idea of a lasting commitment or a "forever" relationship.
Instead of "love," consider these terms to describe horse relationships:
* Bond: Strong social connections based on shared experiences and safety.
* Affection: Physical displays of care and closeness, like nuzzling or grooming.
* Trust: A sense of security and reliance on other horses.
While horses may not experience love in the same way we do, their social bonds are essential for their well-being and can be incredibly strong.