Hahaha!
From the very addictive TVtropes.org, which analyzes cliches and recurring themes in all media (not just TV), we have this page about fantasy/sci-fi beasts of burden.
Evolution being what it is, alien worlds (or Earth time periods far removed from the present day) are bound to have different forms of animal life than our world. The people there, however, are usually just like us, or close, and would therefore develop and breed different livestock to fill the same needs as we.
Having an odd creature fill the role of a familiar terrestrial animal is a quick way to add texture to an alien environment and culture, if it's in the budget.
...
Of the types of creatures used, large flightless birds are the most common type of horse-replacement. Two-legged fast dinosaurs come up frequently. To replace a larger draft animal, like an ox or water-buffalo, the elephant (in real world use in India and Thailand) or a Triceratops-like critter is a good choice.
Large, flightless birds? Neeeeeeeevvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvverr!
*Vazali wanders over riding a skirak*
Me: Shoo!
Vazali: What?
Who, me, original? *facepalm* Heehee... ;)
Evolution being what it is, alien worlds (or Earth time periods far removed from the present day) are bound to have different forms of animal life than our world. The people there, however, are usually just like us, or close, and would therefore develop and breed different livestock to fill the same needs as we.
Having an odd creature fill the role of a familiar terrestrial animal is a quick way to add texture to an alien environment and culture, if it's in the budget.
...
Of the types of creatures used, large flightless birds are the most common type of horse-replacement. Two-legged fast dinosaurs come up frequently. To replace a larger draft animal, like an ox or water-buffalo, the elephant (in real world use in India and Thailand) or a Triceratops-like critter is a good choice.
Large, flightless birds? Neeeeeeeevvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvverr!
*Vazali wanders over riding a skirak*
Me: Shoo!
Vazali: What?
Who, me, original? *facepalm* Heehee... ;)