The article highlights the underrated role of horses in Gary Larson’s iconic comic strip, The Far Side, showcasing how these animals contribute to some of the strip’s funniest and darkest humor. From absurd takes on Western tropes—like a cowboy riding a junky horse or a parliament of horses voting “aye” instead of “nay”—to clever twists on familiar sayings and nursery rhymes, Larson uses horses to deliver sharp, often morbid comedy. Notably, some comics explore grim realities, such as the common practice of euthanizing injured horses with a gunshot, which Larson turns into darkly humorous scenarios like the imagined “Horse Hospital.”

Throughout the article, various Far Side comics are described that blend everyday human experiences with equine twists, such as “rumper stickers” replacing bumper stickers, or a horse’s legs being stolen like car tires in the Wild West. Larson’s humor often hinges on visual absurdity and wordplay, making these horse-themed strips memorable for their wit and originality. Despite their less frequent appearances compared to cows, horses in The Far Side have left a lasting hoofprint in the comic’s bizarre animal universe, appealing to fans who appreciate both lighthearted and darker comedic tones.