A horse cradle serves what purpose?

A horse cradle is specifically designed to prevent a horse from biting or licking itself, which can be crucial in various situations where a horse may be stressed or in pain due to an injury, skin condition, or other issues. The cradle typically encircles the horse's head, restricting the movement that allows them to reach their body with their mouth. This is important in managing and promoting healing, especially for horses recovering from surgery or those with skin ailments where excessive biting or licking could exacerbate the situation.

Understanding this function highlights the importance of using equipment that ensures the health and safety of the animal, especially in therapeutic settings. The other options do not accurately reflect the practical application of a horse cradle, as it is not used for enhancing riding capabilities, improving agility, or specifically providing head support during travel.