Several breeds can be used for working with ox-drawn carts (e.g., Pinzgauer, Holstein, or Charolais); however, under the conditions of Sihlianska planina, the Slovak Spotted breed is the most suitable. Ox-drawn carts assist local families in forestry work, such as pulling wood, and in agricultural activities, including tilling the soil, harvesting, collecting hay, and transporting manure to fields in winter.
There are two basic types of farmers-waggoners. The first focuses on working with animals, including feeding cattle, caring for their health, ensuring sufficient quality feed, checking hooves and horseshoes, shoeing, maintaining stables, and most importantly, training young steers early. As early as their first year of life, oxen are harnessed into the yoke, taught commands and teamwork, and gradually introduced to work in forestry or agriculture.
The second key activity is the production of working tools and equipment. The most commonly used piece of hitching gear is the yoke, which is used to harness a pair of oxen or a collar for working with a single steer. Other essential equipment includes wagons with side plates, wooden ladder carts, semi-trailers, and sleighs for winter work in the snow.
The continuity and sense of family cohesion among the inhabitants of local villages with the tradition of ox-driven carts are also reinforced by the “Jarmo” (“Yoke”) event, a farm-ox race organised since 2000. During this event, families who own oxen demonstrate their deep connection with their animals and nature. The enduring heritage of ox-driven carts represents an ecological approach to farming within Sihlianska planina, which falls under the second level of nature protection.
