eeeefarm, Animals in Translation by Temple Grandin describes just what you did, horses and cows being totally distracted by some small change in their environment.
Yes, that's because they are prey animals. I had one of my five that was particularly sensitive to the least little thing. Not desirable in a riding animal, but he would have been the survivor in the wild. Nothing new ever escaped his gaze!
It's actually easier to deal with unusual things with a horse when you are away from home…...because they don't know what is "normal" in an unfamiliar place they are more accepting of something "different", and in my experience more willing to trust you when you say it's O.K. 
Earlier this summer I went camping with Gossy and one day we took a walk on a trail where I had seen an unusual bird. I'm looking up trying to figure out what the bird is and suddently Gossy jumps up and does the "startled run". I look to see what's going on, and there in the middle of the trail is a crawfish with its big claws snapping away. Gossy had absolutely no desire to mess with it :eek:
Thank you for these amazing stories. Great morning read with my coffee. I can't wait to share some stories with Kentucky. Hopefully this weekend camping I will come back with a few.
What a riot - If I'd come across that situation it would probably mean a quick cross to the other side of the street or whatever - bugs, BIG bugs, are pretty gross to me. As to your other statement:
"But, we all, who have …I mean.... who serve Basenji (not for dinner-I mean those of us who bow to their majesties...but I digress...) We all know how tenacious a Basenji can be."
Yes. tenacious is one way to describe them. There are days when "serving" my basenji could easily translate "for dinner."
@Shaye's:
Yes. tenacious is one way to describe them. There are days when "serving" my basenji could easily translate "for dinner."
We like to threaten ours with the possibility of "roast haunch of Basenji" on the menu. Somehow he doesn't take us too seriously! 
I keep saying, the only reason I keep that dog fed is to keep the meat fresh.
Funny how nobody believes me. Nope, not even AJ.
@AJs:
I keep saying, the only reason I keep that dog fed is to keep the meat fresh.
Funny how nobody believes me. Nope, not even AJ.
I can believe it - after all, we live in a hurricane prone state, and who knows - there may come a day when we can't get to food - nice to have it living with you.:D
Yes, Shaye's Mum, but the Basenjis might get to you first!!
Anyone for curly tail soup?
HAHAHA keep the tail for a toothpick
