Why horses?

Photo by Gene Spesard 1/8/2014

People often ask: Why are horses allowed in Sabino Canyon, but not dogs? There are a number of reasons, but one has to do with diet. Horses are herbivores. [Yes, those big, strong creatures get all the energy (and the protein) they need from plants and only plants.] Dogs, like coyotes, are omnivores. And, as you know, you poop what you eat. Horse poop doesn't smell appealing to carnivores like mountain lions and bobcats. Dog poop does. And, let's face it, not every dog walker is as responsible as you about picking up.