Oh, I thought you would see plenty of them gaiting down your main street. Just like we apparently have kangaroos hopping down our main streets (joke). You might find this walker site of interest, listing stud farms etc:

http://www.walking-horse.com/main.html

(thankyou google)

I live about 2.5 hours from Shelbyville, TN, which is the Walking horse capital of the world. I've been to the "Celebration" which is their main show of the year.

In all honesty, I really can't stand what they do to the horses. I sat with my mouth hanging open most of the night. That was back in the late 80's before they really cracked down on the really heavy hoof chains and burning/painful hoof packing.

I am sure it still goes on, but their are now strict fines and punishments if caught.

The saddlebreds are somewhat better,but, they have their issues too(like throwing firecrackers and such at them to "hype" them up for the ring to be more flashy) Again, doesn't happen all the time

You will find good and bad in all breeds. I love the Walker and Saddlebreds as a natural breed. Sound, and lots of heart

I have heard some "horror stories" about gaited breeds, in fact other breeds too. I have a friend here who loves Gaited breeds and tells me there have been some pretty barbaric practices (not saying it still goes on...)

I did see a Hackney Pony (I think?) being exercised one time with chains on legs/hooves and set tail. It left me with a really strange feeling. So I know what youre getting at. And I suppose its all in the name of 'charisma' and winning a few rosettes.

Anyway, if you can ever get some images of Walkers and ASBs (even natural/candids) I would love to see them.