The human perception of a horse’s satisfaction or dissatisfaction may differ dramatically from the horse’s own point of view. Humans often project their own perspectives onto equine behaviour and needs, or reduce welfare merely to good husbandry practices. Likewise, defining welfare simply as the „absence of abuse“ is inadequate; not mistreating an animal is necessary but not sufficient condition for well-being. Ensuring physical well-being is now regarded as a basic and expected standard. Further advances in animal welfare therefore place increasing emphasis on psychological well-being and the mental state of animals.