I think a tree kept you from seeing the forest. They're obviously making money off those horses.

They learned it takes hours of personal dedication to get to a point of success. The animal chosen was just the life skills training tool. It could have been a dog for all that matters. It's the learned work ethic employers, who pay well, want in their employees. Companies often search out the well socialized and experienced farm kids for that very reason. Kids who work hard, get off the farm regularly, get put in the spotlight where they might crack, and have experienced the world kicking them in the teeth are the exact kind of people these companies search for. They will most definitely be cashing checks those horses helped them earn well after the horses are dead and gone.

There's a reason the mental health facilities on many college campuses are flooded with kids dropping out, crying about the smallest of stress, and even attempting suicide. Many, most??, kids aren't taught to work hard, struggle through it, and most importantly get back up when they're knocked down. It's participation ribbons for all. Those stinking hay burning horses sure don't hand out any participation ribbons.