The 'racist' comment was hyperbole I used just to evoke a tiny 'ha-ha' to underscore how horses are quintessentially afraid of not just llamas, but just about everything under the sun- fast-moving objects, new sounds, baby powder, plastic bags, etc. I'm not an aspiring comedian, and certainly not advocating the need to stay calm with hands on the steering wheel when a horse pulls you over during a routine traffic stop.
Just a quick search reveals a ubiquitous range of sources from equine research, veterinarian pamphlets, cute blogs, and universities that acknowledge skittish behavior and provide informational tips to handle horses effectively. Both new and experienced riders all get bucked off. Horses are just dangerous. This widely known trait is part of the reason 'The Horse Whisperer' was so relatable to both horse lovers and equinophobes.
Llamas, on the other hand, tend to be much more chill, manageable, and safer. I like them in grizzly country since they let out a shrill bark, and the worst they can do to us is spit on us when the panniers are off balance. If they happen to run off, they don't shoot to the end of the earth back to their home stable or trailhead.
