hobble
A hobble is a device or method used to limit the movement of the legs. In animal handling, a hobble is a strap, rope, or chain placed around one or both legs to prevent kicking, running, or excessive movement. It is commonly used in equine management and livestock handling during grooming, loading, transport, or restraints. The placement of a hobble varies, but the aim is to impede the limb sufficiently without causing lasting injury.
As a verb, hobble means to walk with a limp or to impede movement. A person or
In practice, the use of hobble devices raises welfare considerations. When used on animals, they should be
Etymology traces the verb to the meaning of limping; the noun form describes the restraint that produces