Your comments on horses were interesting. Having spent my youth and
young adult years in the horse 'world,' both recreational and
professional (sort of). I was not amazed at the heat generated with your
comments. In the world of the domestic horse, the issue is usually
money. To get horses to the state of back into work, into training, into
reproduction or whatever, is the main goal. The natural state of being a
horse is usually not considered.
    In my own experience, we had one mare, who we did not know was
pregnant, who seriously bit me one day while I was saddling her. The
next morning when a beautiful little foal was in her stall, I understood
and forgave her, her previous day's behavior. Due to our limited options
(limited # of stalls, only two pastures, etc.). Mom & son were together
until Mom passed away, about 18 months later. To be honest, I do not
remember when he fully weaned, but I do remember that Mom let it be
known that the time had come - with no hesitation at all.
    Having studied equestrian science in college, I was happy to see in
many aspects of horse care, the comparison of natural vs domestic and
statistics on both outcomes. It helped to gain a better understanding of
horse care.
    Controlled and delineated environments are just that - controlled.
They may have aspects of the natural state, but are vastly different
from the natural state in their management and outcomes. Whether it be
animals or humans.
    Just MHO.

Leslie Ward
Vine Grove, KY