How Did Native Tribes Care For Their Animals?

Among the Native American Plains tribes, horses were far more than mere animals—they were sacred companions, tools of survival, and powerful symbols of wealth, freedom, and warrior prestige. After their introduction by the Spanish in the 16th century, horses transformed the lives of Plains tribes like the Lakota, Comanche, Cheyenne, Blackfoot, and Crow, becoming central to hunting, warfare, and mobility. These tribes developed detailed, thoughtful ways of caring for their horses, as well as for dogs, which were their primary domesticated animals prior to the horse's arrival.

Horse Care

Plains tribes treated horses with reverence and care. Horses were often considered part of the family or even spiritually linked to their owners. Young boys were taught from an early age how to handle, feed, groom, and ride horses. A warrior’s success in battle or on the hunt often depended on the health and speed of his mount.

Horses were typically grazed freely during the day, allowed to roam and feed on open prairie grass. At night, they were hobbled—tied by the legs—or tethered near camp to prevent them from wandering off or being stolen. Raiding for horses was a common form of intertribal warfare, so guarding them closely was essential.

Tribes selected the best grazing spots for their herds, often near water sources. In times of drought or travel, supplemental feeding was sometimes provided by cutting prairie grass or feeding them gathered roots, bark, or even dried meat in rare cases. During harsh winters, tribes would dig through snow to uncover grass or strip tree bark to help the animals survive.

Grooming was another important part of care. Combs made from bone or wood were used to remove tangles and burrs from manes and tails. Horses were washed in streams or rubbed down with hides and cloth. Saddles, bridles, and horse blankets were made from buffalo hides and decorated with beads or quillwork, not only for function but as expressions of love and pride.

Medical Care and Spiritual Bond

If a horse became ill or injured, traditional healing methods were employed. Medicine men might apply poultices made of herbs or roots, chant prayers, or perform rituals. In some tribes, certain horses were thought to possess spiritual power and were treated accordingly, given special names, painted with protective symbols, and adorned with feathers or beads.

Horses were sometimes buried or honored with ceremonies when they died, especially if they had proven themselves in battle or on important hunts.

Dogs and Other Pets

Before horses, dogs were the primary pack animals of Plains tribes. They pulled travois (a kind of sled), guarded camps, and accompanied hunting parties. Like horses, dogs were valued and cared for attentively. They were fed scraps of meat and fat from bison hunts and given protective shelter during harsh weather.

Children often formed deep bonds with family dogs, and many tribes allowed dogs to live in or near their lodges. Though not considered spiritual partners like horses, dogs were respected helpers and early companions in the nomadic life of the plains.

In both horses and dogs, the Plains tribes saw not just animals, but vital allies deserving of care, gratitude, and respect.

To learn more about the lives and lifestyles of the Native American tribes, check out the HOKC episode “Blackfoot Warriors vs. Cree Warriors : The Battle Of Belly River”, linked below. Brought to you only by History At The OK Corral: Home Of History’s Greatest Shootouts & Showdowns!