Journal articles on the topic 'Equine behaviour'
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Butterworth, Jill. "Equine behaviour." Veterinary Record 174, no. 12 (March 20, 2014): 308. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/vr.g2233.
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Nellist, Jenni. "Equine behavioural first aid." Veterinary Nurse 10, no. 10 (December 2, 2019): 540–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/vetn.2019.10.10.540.
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It is common for equines to become difficult to handle during procedures, veterinary or otherwise, as a direct result of handling during the procedure and as a consequence of poor mood state derived from inappropriate housing; these lead to pessimistic behavioural responses, which will include proactive defensive behaviour. Since poor equine behaviour is a common cause of injury to veterinary personnel, and not all equine owners and handlers have sufficient levels of competence to cope with dangerous equine behaviour, both the veterinary practice and the client are likely to benefit from veterinary personnel trained and competent in behavioural first aid. Behavioural first aid can prevent problematic behaviour from escalating, protect human safety and improve equine welfare.
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White, Jo, and Ruth Sims. "Improving Equine Welfare through Human Habit Formation." Animals 11, no. 8 (July 21, 2021): 2156. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani11082156.
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This paper explores the potential for interventions to develop pro-animal welfare habitual behaviours (PAWHBs) in people to improve the lives of animals. Human behavioural research indicates that opportunities exist to deliver lasting change through developing positive habitual behaviours. The routine nature of many equine care and management practices lends itself to habit formation and maintenance. This proof-of-concept paper aims to evaluate a theory-based intervention of developing and maintaining a PAWHB in people caring for equines. Qualitative research methods were used. A 30 day PAWHB intervention (PAWHBInt) of providing enrichment to an equine by scratching them in a consistent context linked to an existing routine behaviour was undertaken. Participants (n = 9) then engaged in semi-structured interviews that were analysed using thematic analysis, where the participants self-reported the outcomes they observed during the intervention. The study findings suggest that the PAWHBInt had a positive impact on human behaviour and habit formation. The research helps to address the dearth of evidence regarding the application of habit theory to equine welfare interventions and emphasised linking a desired new behaviour to an existing routine behaviour when developing PAWHBs. The research also highlights the role of mutual benefit for human and equine, and emotion in providing feedback and potential reward, supporting the link to the cue-routine-reward principle of habit theory.
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BRACHER, VERENA, and T. STOHLER. "Equine clinical behaviour." Equine Veterinary Journal 30, S27 (June 10, 2010): 3. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3306.1998.tb05134.x.
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Murphy, Jack, and Sean Arkins. "Equine learning behaviour." Behavioural Processes 76, no. 1 (September 2007): 1–13. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.beproc.2006.06.009.
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McGreevy, Paul. "Assessing equine behaviour." Veterinary Record 186, no. 14 (April 16, 2020): 459.2–459. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/vr.m1471.
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Torres Borda, Laura, Zsofia Kelemen, Ulrike Auer, and Florien Jenner. "Video Ethogram of Equine Social Behaviour." Animals 14, no. 8 (April 14, 2024): 1179. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani14081179.
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Equine social behaviour studies face challenges stemming from the absence of a comprehensive ethogram with unequivocal standardised definitions and the resulting limits to data comparison across studies. To address these constraints, this ethogram offers researchers a standardised framework, defining thirty-seven distinct equine social behaviours supplemented by video examples for enhanced clarity. These definitions amalgamate insights from existing ethograms and are fine-tuned through meticulous video observations, encompassing contextual cues such as distinguishing between aggressive and playful circling based on ear position and facial expressions and communicative nuances to provide a detailed representation of equine social behaviours. Video recordings complement the standardised definitions by capturing the dynamic flow and sequence of social interactions. By providing a dynamic and detailed representation, videos allow researchers to observe the temporal aspects of behaviour, including the sequence, duration, and rhythm of interactions. These detailed data are crucial for interpreting social behaviours and unravelling the complexities of equine societies. Standardized and video-illustrated definitions of equine social behaviour facilitate clear and consistent communication between researchers, enabling cross-study comparisons regarding the impact of husbandry practices and health conditions on equine social behaviour, which, in turn, can facilitate the assessment and optimisation of management practices and equine welfare.
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Torres Borda, Laura, Ulrike Auer, and Florien Jenner. "Equine Social Behaviour: Love, War and Tolerance." Animals 13, no. 9 (April 26, 2023): 1473. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani13091473.
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Sociality is an ethological need of horses that remained unchanged by domestication. Accordingly, it is essential to include horses’ social behavioural requirements and the opportunity to establish stable affiliative bonds in equine management systems and welfare assessment. Thus, this systematic review aims to provide an up-to-date analysis of equine intraspecific social ethograms. A literature review yielded 27 papers that met the inclusion criteria by studying adult (≥2 years) equine social behaviour with conspecifics using a well-defined ethogram. Social interactions were observed in 851 horses: 320 (semi-)feral free-ranging, 62 enclosed (semi-)feral and 469 domesticated, living in groups averaging 9.1 (mean +/− 6.8 s.d., range: 2–33) horses. The ethograms detailed in these 27 studies included a total of 40 (mean: 12.8/paper, range: 2–23) social behaviours, of which 60% (24/40) were agonistic, 30% (12/40) affiliative, 7.5% (3/40) investigative and 2.5% (1/40) neutral. The 27 publications included 67.7% agonistic and only 26% affiliative, 5.1% investigative and 1.2% neutral social behaviours in their methodology, thus focusing predominantly on socio-negative interactions. The strong emphasis on agonistic behaviours in equine ethology starkly contrasts with the rare occurrence of agonistic behaviours in stable horse groups and the well-established importance of affiliative interactions for equine welfare. The nuanced and complex equine social behaviour requires refinement of the ethogram with a greater focus on affiliative, ambivalent and indifferent interactions and the role of social tolerance in equine social networks to advance equine welfare assessment.
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Nellist, Jennifer M. "Equine behavioural first aid and combatting stress in equines." UK-Vet Equine 5, no. 3 (May 2, 2021): 129–34. http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/ukve.2021.5.3.129.
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Behavioural first aid is for the prevention of harm to equids and humans. The need for behavioural first aid is either immediately apparent on examination or requested by a client because of the occurrence of undesirable and/or dangerous behaviour. Delivering effective first aid advice relies on recognising the problem, providing immediate, practical interim solutions, or referral to an appropriate behavioural practitioner. Behaviour itself is related to the equine's social and environmental situation, its emotional experience and the behavioural goal. Challenging behaviour is often related to lack of predictability or control in the equine's life, caused by sub-optimal management or during exposure to painful, frightening or confusing equitation practices that do not adhere to the principles of learning theory. The goal of behavioural first aid is to preserve the safety and welfare of the equine and their human connections until the animal is referred on. As such, being able to undertake behavioural first aid should be considered a valuable skill and an asset to modern equine veterinary practice.
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Done, E. J., H. Randle, and T. Counsell. "The effect of group size on proximity relations in pre weaned foals kept in a commercial stud environment." BSAP Occasional Publication 35 (2006): 199–202. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0263967x00042713.
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The Stud Book Returns of racehorse breeders to Weatherbys Group Ltd. in 2003 recorded 16,008 live foals in England, Scotland, Wales, the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland; the same organization estimates the U.K. racehorse population to be 40,000 (Defra, 2004). The link between diminished equine well-being and social isolation (where physical segregation from conspecifics is regarded as preventing the expression of instinctive social behaviour) is well documented (e.g. Fraser, 1992, ). The negative consequences of social deprivation during the primary socialization period have been studied in adult equines; these include fear responses when presented with novel stimuli, generalized fear-induced aggression and stereotypic behaviours (Fraser, 1992, ; McGreevy et al., 1995b, . The manifestation of ‘a normal behavioural repertoire’ is widely viewed as an indication of well-being (Hurnik et al., 1985, ). The acquisition of typical equine behaviour occurs in a socialization period that involves close contact with conspecifics (e.g. identification through olfactory investigation and reciprocal maintenance behaviours such as allo-grooming).
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Randle, H. "Equine behavioural science: perspectives on problems." BSAP Occasional Publication 35 (2006): 109–27. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0263967x00042622.
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It is crucial to emphasise the importance of a sound scientific underpinning in the tackling of equine problems and regulation of those who treat equines. It is becoming increasingly common for two types of ‘practitioner’ to be consulted by owners of horses experiencing some kind of behavioural problem, namely Horse Whisperers (HWs) and Horse Behaviour Advisors (HBAs).Throughout this paper HWs are considered to be those who can ‘communicate with an equine, in a para–normal, gifted manner’, whilst HBAs are considered to be those who ‘advise on horse behaviour, especially problem behaviour’. The commonly used term ‘Horse Behaviourist’ has deliberately not been used as it is technically incorrect. Anyone with a rudimentary knowledge of psychology and learning theory will know that behaviourists are proponents of ‘behaviourism’ – a particular way of explaining learning. It is not a generic term referring to the study of animal behaviour – that is ‘ethology’. Worryingly today the term ‘ethology’ is being employed as a marketing tool.
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Hall, Carol, Rachel Kay, and Jim Green. "A Retrospective Survey of Factors Affecting the Risk of Incidents and Equine Injury During Non-Commercial Transportation by Road in the United Kingdom." Animals 10, no. 2 (February 12, 2020): 288. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani10020288.
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The number of equines injured as a result of incidents during road transport is currently unknown in the United Kingdom. Although previous research has identified factors that affect an equine’s behavioural and physiological responses to transportation, their contribution to incident occurrence and injury risk is unclear. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with incident occurrence and equine injury during transportation by road. An online survey was administered between 12 May 2017 and 21 July 2017 in the UK. The survey was open to those transporting equines non-commercially and comprised two sections. Questions relating to general transport behaviour were completed by all participants. Participants who had experienced an incident then provided details of these, including outcomes. Incidents were reported by 16.2% (342/2116) of participants, with details included for 399 incidents. Those participants who had a professional/competitive involvement with equines reported more incidents than those with a predominantly leisure involvement (p < 0.01). Equine behaviour was the attributed cause of 56% of incidents reported and most incidents occurred during the first hour of travel (65%). In over 50% of the incidents reported, the equine was injured, with those incidents attributed to transport vehicle malfunction being associated with the highest percentage of injury (68%). This study highlights the need for better preparation of the equine for transportation and to identify risk factors associated with transport vehicle type, design and operation.
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Hemmings, A. J., S. D. McBride, and N. C. Smith. "The putative reward function of equine stereotypic behaviour." BSAP Occasional Publication 32 (2004): 67–78. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0263967x00041239.
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AbstractA review of physiology and behaviour–based studies on the function of stereotypic behaviour indicates contradiction and inconsistency within the literature. By considering appropriate neurochemical data alongside an existing model of motivation (Hughes and Duncan, 1988), a greater understanding of the function of stereotypy may be gained. The Hughes and Duncan model (1988), described stereotypies as highly motivated appetitive behaviours performed repeatedly in an environment where consummatory goals are denied. Moreover, appetitive behaviours activate reward circuitry such as the ventral tegmental area and nucleus accumbens and are thus considered to have a reward value associated with their performance (Carr, 2002; Jones et al., 1990). Stress induced sensitisation of reward circuitry may result in appetitive ‘stereotypies’ having increased reward value, perhaps becoming consummatory in their own right. In such a scenario, stereotypic behaviour could function as a coping tool, allowing the animal to counter the effects of an aversive environment.
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Henderson, J. V., and N. K. Waran. "Reducing Equine Stereotypies Using an Equiball™." Animal Welfare 10, no. 1 (February 2001): 73–80. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0962728600023277.
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AbstractIt is believed that environmental enrichment techniques can play an important part in creating suitable captive environments for horses. There has, however, been little scientific investigation into the effectiveness of ‘stable-toys’ which claim to reduce the performance of equine stereotypies. This study investigated the effect of a foraging device known as ‘The Equiball™’ on equine stereotypies. Six horses were given their evening feed in an Equiball, and the occurence of stereotypic behaviour recorded using scan sampling of video observations. Pre-enrichment, horses spent a mean (± SD) of 5.27 ± 8.17 per cent of their time in the stable performing stereotypies; and significant individual variation in mean time performing stereotypic behaviour was found (P < 0.05). Several peaks in stereotypy over the day were found, the two main ones corresponding to the times before feeding. A reduction in stereotypic behaviour in five horses, and a small increase in stereotypic behaviour in one horse was observed during enrichment. During enrichment, there was an overall trend for stereotypic behaviour to decrease (P < 0.1). When used in conjunction with other measures such as behaviour therapy, companionship, increased exercise, and so on, the Equiball may help to create an environment less likely to lead to the development of stereotypic behaviours.
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McBride, S. D., and A. Hemmings. "Causal factors of equine stereotypy." BSAP Occasional Publication 32 (2004): 35–65. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0263967x00041227.
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AbstractThe commonality in neural mechanism (transmitter and brain region) underpinning stereotypy and that associated with motivation of goaldirected behaviours lends support to the idea that the former is derived from the latter. Hughes and Duncan postulated this theory behaviourally within their proposed 1988 model of motivation. This review re–interprets the Hughes and Duncan model to neurochemically describe the motivational development of stereotypic behaviour in the horse.
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Lebatteux, E., M. E. Rosbotham, A. Northrop, and K. L. Howells. "Comparative methods of preventing stereotypic behaviour in horses." BSAP Occasional Publication 32 (2004): 187–88. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0263967x00041422.
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Over fifteen per cent of domesticated horses exhibit a form of stereotypic behaviour (Luescher, McKeown and Halip, 1991). These behaviours can represent or develop into health and welfare disequilibrium and crib–biting and weaving are two of the most commonly performed behaviours of this type. As these behaviours have been described as having no obvious function (Mason, 1991), procedures concerned with their ultimate prevention have been promoted within the equine industry. The aim of this study was to review the success of the physical, pharmacological, dietary, environmental and surgical methods available to horse owners for the prevention of equine stereotypies.A total of 300 questionnaires were distributed between riding schools, trekking centres and livery yards throughout the Northern counties of England along with horse owning BSc Equine students at Myerscough College, Lancashire. Of the total, 200 were distributed by post and the remainder researcher administered.
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White, Jo, Kayna Prescott, and Suzanne Rogers. "Applying the science of behaviour change to the management of strangles." UK-Vet Equine 5, no. 3 (May 2, 2021): 110–14. http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/ukve.2021.5.3.110.
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The Strangles Symposium in 2019 gathered equine stakeholders from across the industry to discuss the management and prevention of strangles in the UK. The understanding of Streptococcus equi is increasing as is the ability to identify and treat the disease. There is real potential to reduce the incidence of the disease, as highlighted through the guidance produced by experts in 2021. It has been recognised that the preventative measures identified require the behaviour of people across the equine industry to alter. The science of human behaviour change can support the veterinary profession in applying effective, evidence-based interventions to optimise the success of these changes. Pinpointing what behaviours are or are not being performed, and researching what is motivating these behaviours, is key to forming strategies within veterinary practice and at UK policy level, to ensure a targeted and consistent approach is available for people within the equine sector.
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Pollock, J. "Welfare lessons of equine social behaviour." Equine Veterinary Journal 19, no. 2 (March 1987): 86–89. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3306.1987.tb02592.x.
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HOUPT, KATHERINE A. "New perspectives on equine stereotypic behaviour." Equine Veterinary Journal 27, no. 2 (March 1995): 82–83. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3306.1995.tb03039.x.
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Guinnefollau, Lauréline, Erica K. Gee, Charlotte F. Bolwell, Elizabeth J. Norman, and Chris W. Rogers. "Benefits of Animal Exposure on Veterinary Students’ Understanding of Equine Behaviour and Self-Assessed Equine Handling Skills." Animals 9, no. 9 (August 28, 2019): 620. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani9090620.
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Horses are one of the most dangerous animals veterinarians have to work with. For many veterinary students, their first exposure to horses occurs during practical classes. To evaluate the level of knowledge students have of equine behaviour and their equine handling competency when entering the programme, 214 veterinary students (1st and 4th year) were recruited to participate in a questionnaire. Participants were asked to choose one out of 12 terms that best represented the affective state of a horse in a picture, and to self-assess their equine handling skills. Half (n = 56/115) of the first-year students correctly interpreted the horse’s behaviour. The majority had (1) a poor understanding of equine learning mechanisms and (2) poor self-rated equine handling skills. A history of pet ownership (p = 0.027) and the presence of horses on their family property (p = 0.001) were significantly associated with a correct understanding of equine behaviour. Fourth-year students were three times more likely to accurately interpret the horse’s behaviour (p = 0.01) and rated their handling skills higher than first-year students (p = 0.006). These results suggest that previous animal experience confers a considerable advantage to interpret equine behaviour and highlight the critical importance of practical training in the veterinary programme.
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Parker, M. "Equine stereotypies: Current theories and future directions." Proceedings of the British Society of Animal Science 2009 (April 2009): 242. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1752756200030817.
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Spontaneous stereotypic behaviour is conceptualised as topographically invariant, repetitive, rigid behaviour patterns, typically thought to be an artefact of captivity (Mason and Rushen 2006). In horses, stereotypic behaviours are commonly reported, probably owing to the high numbers of domesticated animals maintained under restrictive conditions (Parker et al., 2008a; Waters et al. 2002). Spontaneous stereotypies displayed by the horse include both oral (e.g., cribbing/windsucking) and locomotor (e.g., weaving and box-walking). There are a variety of extant theories as to what causes these behaviours, ranging from boredom to genetic predisposition and everywhere in-between. Affecting up to 35% of domestic horses in the UK, stereotypies represent a significant challenge for owners and a clear understanding of their aetiology is important in order to move to reduce the incidence. Recent advances in our understanding of the behavioural and neurobiological processes involved in the development and maintenance of drug-induced stereotypies in laboratory animals may provide us with a useful model for a better understanding of the spontaneous equivalent.
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Grime, E., A. Northrop, M. E. Rosbotham, and K. L. Howells. "The effect of mirrors for the control of stereotypic weaving in the stabled horse." BSAP Occasional Publication 32 (2004): 185–86. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0263967x00041410.
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The exhibition and aetiology of abnormal behaviour in the equine is a coping response to a sub-optimal environment (McBride and Cuddeford, 2001). Physical prevention of performance of these behaviours could however lead to compromised welfare so alternative welfare enhancement methods have been sought as alternatives. Nicol (1999) indicated that the cause of weaving as a specific stereotypic behaviour is related to the management of the stabled horse. Enrichment devices have been successful in reducing abnormal behaviour and fostering increased expression of more normal behaviours in many animal species but studies have remained limited in relation to the equine. By strategic placement of mirrors in the stable the current study aimed to reduce the stabled horses need to perform stereotypic weaving behaviour without the use of physical restraint in order to enhance the welfare outcome.Four horses, two males and two females were housed individually in 10*12m loose boxes and provided with straw bedding.
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McBride, S. D., and D. Cuddeford. "The Putative Welfare-Reducing Effects of Preventing Equine Stereotypic Behaviour." Animal Welfare 10, no. 2 (May 2001): 173–89. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0962728600023848.
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AbstractThe common practice of preventing equine stereotypic behaviour in the UK may be of concern, from a welfare perspective, if these behaviours constitute a coping response to a suboptimal environment. The aim of this study was to assess the putative function of these behaviours by measuring behavioural and physiological parameters i) before and after stereotypy prevention; ii) before and after stereotypy performance; and iii) in response to opiate antagonist (naloxone) administration.The crib-strap significantly (P = 0.05) elevated mean plasma Cortisol levels in crib-biting horses; a similar, although not significant trend (P = 0.07) was also observed for the weaving group during the anti-weave bar treatment. Both crib-strap and anti-weave bar significantly (P < 0.05) elevated plasma Cortisol levels in the control horses. Although the latter result prevented a definite conclusion being drawn about the function of equine stereotypies, the results did indicate that the use of the crib-strap and anti-weave bar is stressful to the horse.Plasma Cortisol level was significantly (P = 0.04) higher immediately prior to the onset of stereotypy followed by a significant reduction post-stereotypy. This suggested that both crib-biting and weaving have a coping function to reduce stress levels in the animal.Naloxone significantly reduced crib-biting by 84 per cent (P = 0.05) but it did not reduce weaving behaviour, indicating that crib-biting is a reward behaviour. However, resting behaviour was also significantly (P = 0.02) increased in crib-biting horses, suggesting that the stereotypy reduction was due to a sedative effect of the opiate antagonist. The latter was not measured, however, in control or weaving animals, and thus may be interpreted differently. The welfare implications of these results are discussed.
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Rogers, Suzanne, and Catherine Bell. "Perceptions of Fear and Anxiety in Horses as Reported in Interviews with Equine Behaviourists." Animals 12, no. 21 (October 23, 2022): 2904. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani12212904.
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One of the key welfare concerns for horses in the United Kingdom is lack of recognition of fear in horses. This study aimed to gain an understanding of how well horse care givers recognise fear and/or anxiety in horses by interviewing equine behaviourists (who interact with large numbers of horse care givers and talk to them about this topic routinely). The experiences of Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC)-registered equine behaviourists working with horse caregivers were examined, including the ability of clients to recognise fear and/or anxiety in horses, how clients respond when discussing fear as the reason for their horse’s behaviour, and what explanations the participants use to explain fear and anxiety. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine participants and analysed using thematic analysis before being written up to reflect the discussion points. When asked how well horse caregivers recognise fear and/or anxiety in horses, three key response themes emerged: caregivers are extremely poor at recognizing fear and anxiety in horses; some clients do recognise behavioural signs indicating fear and/or anxiety but only the overt signs (e.g., rearing, running away) rather than the more subtle signs (e.g., tension in face, subtle avoidance behaviours such as a hesitant gait); and fear and/or anxiety behaviour is often misinterpreted or mislabelled. These key themes recurred throughout several other interview questions. This study has provided initial insights into the lack of recognition of fear and anxiety of horses by their caregivers in the United Kingdom as well as tried and tested approaches to conversations to change this. Such synthesis of experience and techniques across the equine behaviour sector, together with the information gained regarding perception of equine caregivers, could be a valuable approach to improve the effectiveness of behaviour consultations and welfare initiatives.
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Fenner, Kate, Sarah Matlock, Jane Williams, Bethany Wilson, Andrew McLean, James Serpell, and Paul McGreevy. "Validation of the Equine Behaviour Assessment and Research Questionnaire (E-BARQ): A New Survey Instrument for Exploring and Monitoring the Domestic Equine Triad." Animals 10, no. 11 (October 28, 2020): 1982. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani10111982.
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The Equine Behaviour Assessment and Research Questionnaire (E-BARQ) was developed to obtain quantitative data on the domestic equine triad: training, management and behaviour. It can be taken repeatedly, thus collecting longitudinal data to enable evaluation of how changes in a horse’s training and management are reflected in that horse’s behaviour over time and how these changes can impact horse welfare in the longer term. Questionnaire validation and reliability were tested by determining (a) whether an owner’s subjective ratings of their horse’s problematic behaviours or undesirable temperament traits were reflected in the questionnaire scores obtained for that horse (construct validity), (b) whether two respondents, equally familiar with a particular horse, reported comparable scores for that horse through the questionnaire (inter-rater reliability), and (c) whether the same respondent, scoring the same horse after a known interval of time, recorded similar responses (intra-rater reliability). Construct validity testing of 1923 responses showed significant alignment between owners’ reported experience of focal horses’ behaviour and those horses’ E-BARQ scores, with scores varying from 1.13 to 1.34 for ridden horse behaviour (all p < 0.001) and from 1.06 to 1.43 for non-ridden horse behaviour (all p < 0.001). Inter-rater reliability testing of ten horse–rider pairs revealed that 203 of the 215 question items were significantly aligned (p < 0.001) when tested by two independent raters. Of the remaining 19 items, four had fair alignment (ĸ = 0.174–0.316; p = 0.281) and ten items, largely related to whether the horse shows behavioural signs related to anxiety when taken away from home, did not align (ĸ = 0; p = 1). Intra-rater reliability tests showed that the responses significantly aligned on all 215 question items tested (p < 0.001). The results of these tests confirmed the construct validity and reliability of E-BARQ as a standardised behavioural assessment tool for horses.
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Purdy, S. "Small herd behaviour in domestic donkeys." Equine Veterinary Education 31, no. 4 (September 5, 2018): 199–202. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/eve.12998.
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Douglas, J. E., T. L. Biddick, J. J. Thomason, and J. C. Jofriet. "Stress/strain behaviour of the equine laminar junction." Journal of Experimental Biology 201, no. 15 (August 1, 1998): 2287–97. http://dx.doi.org/10.1242/jeb.201.15.2287.
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The equine laminar junction plays a vital role in transferring the forces of weight-bearing between the epidermal hoof wall and the bone of the third phalanx, but the way in which it performs this function is poorly understood. Using samples from sites varying proximodistally and circumferentially around the hoof, the stress/strain behaviour of this tissue was characterised in three directions: radial tension and proximodistal and mediolateral shear. The influences of toe angle and length were also examined. For all three test directions, the modulus of elasticity increased with increasing strain magnitude. The mean modulus of elasticity in tension was 18.25+/-5.38 MPa (mean +/-1 S.D., N=116; mean strain 0. 25). In proximodistal shear, the mean shear modulus was 5.38+/-1.49 MPa (N=76; mean shear strain 0.48) and in mediolateral shear 2. 57+/-0.91 MPa (N=66; mean shear strain 0.81). In many cases, the individual hoof or horse from which the samples were taken significantly affected the value of the modulus, suggesting that mechanical history may affect the material properties of this tissue. Few biologically significant variations with location, toe length or toe angle were unambiguously demonstrated, suggesting that the material properties of the laminar junction are independent of position, despite apparent regional variations in function, and that foot shape is not a major determinant of material properties.
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Loftus, Loni. "A multidisciplinary approach to equine clinical behaviour practice." Veterinary Nursing Journal 30, no. 2 (February 2015): 51–56. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17415349.2014.995958.
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Cooper, Jonathan J. "Equine learning behaviour: Common knowledge and systematic research." Behavioural Processes 76, no. 1 (September 2007): 24–26. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.beproc.2006.12.009.
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Monk, AS. "Equine stereotypies and time budgets." BSAP Occasional Publication 35 (2006): 297–300. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0263967x00042944.
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Time budget studies focus on the amount of time individual animals allocate to mutually exclusive activities. In the wild, horses’ behavioural patterns revolve around maintenance behaviour and reproduction (Forgacz 1999). They have evolved as nomadic, trickle feeding, prey animals. Hence, they don't necessarily suit the confines of a domestic environment where their “mutually exclusive activities” may include stereotypical behaviour.Various time budgeting studies have shown that “the behaviour of horses within the domestic management system was significantly different to that of the wild horses” (Forgacz, 1999). In one study domestic horses spent less time in motion, foraging or lying flat than wild horses (Forgacz, 1999). This accords with earlier studies, reported by Kiley-Worthington (1987), which show that wild horses graze for approximately 60% of their time. Even those in various forms of domestic management system, but given access to unrestricted forage, will tend to perform ingestive functions for around 47 - 57% of the time.
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Steinbjörnsson, B., and H. Kristjansson. "Sexual behaviour and fertility in lcelandhorse herds." Pferdeheilkunde Equine Medicine 15, no. 6 (1999): 481–90. http://dx.doi.org/10.21836/pem19990601.
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Wolframm, Inga A., Janet Douglas, and Gemma Pearson. "Changing Hearts and Minds in the Equestrian World One Behaviour at a Time." Animals 13, no. 4 (February 19, 2023): 748. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani13040748.
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Equestrianism is currently facing a range of pressing challenges. These challenges, which are largely based on evolving attitudes to ethics and equine wellbeing, have consequences for the sport’s social licence to operate. The factors that may have contributed to the current situation include overarching societal trends, specific aspects of the equestrian sector, and factors rooted in human nature. If equestrianism is to flourish, it is evident that much needs to change, not the least, human behaviour. To this end, using established behaviour change frameworks that have been scientifically validated and are rooted in practice—most notably, Michie et al.’s COM-B model and Behaviour Change Wheel—could be of practical value for developing and implementing equine welfare strategies. This review summarises the theoretical underpinnings of some behaviour change frameworks and provides a practical, step-by-step approach to designing an effective behaviour change intervention. A real-world example is provided through the retrospective analysis of an intervention strategy that aimed to increase the use of learning theory in (educational) veterinary practice. We contend that the incorporation of effective behaviour change interventions into any equine welfare improvement strategy may help to safeguard the future of equestrianism.
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Randle, H., T. Counsell, and K. Wilton. "The relationship between pre weaning social behaviour and racing performance in Thoroughbred horses." BSAP Occasional Publication 32 (2004): 178–81. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0263967x00041392.
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Vast sums of money are invested in training racehorses, yet race earnings rarely cover training costs. The ability to accurately predict potential racing performance prior to training would be advantageous. Although a link between equine behaviour and later racing success has been suggested, no single measure has yet been identified, mainly due to the complex relationships between behavioural attributes, particularly those of a social nature. The influence of gender is also unclear. According to The Mental Health Model of Sport Performance a degeneration in mental state is reflected by a decline in performance. The success of over 70% of human athletes was identified using behavioural measures of personality. Reportedly equine ‘winners’ are ‘calm’ whilst ‘losers’ are ‘aroused’. Such equine ‘reactivity ‘ (‘temperament’) has traditionally been investigated using contrived experiments. This study aimed to carefully examine equine social activity by exploring multiple aspects of social behaviour whilst avoiding the restrictive concept of dominance.
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Pickering, Persephone, and Jo Hockenhull. "Optimising the Efficacy of Equine Welfare Communications: Do Equine Stakeholders Differ in Their Information-Seeking Behaviour and Communication Preferences?" Animals 10, no. 1 (December 20, 2019): 21. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani10010021.
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Information on the management of animals within domestic environments is freely available to animal owners and caregivers either online, or in paper form by request. However, awareness is growing within the animal welfare sector that simply providing written guidelines or educational material is not enough to affect a positive change in owners in relation to animal welfare. In the quest to improve equine welfare, understanding the way that owners and other stakeholders seek information and their communication preferences is key to effective dissemination of up to date equine welfare information and research findings. Three UK equine stakeholder groups—horse owners, livery yard owners, and equine veterinarians—were surveyed online to find out where they sought equine information. Their awareness of equine welfare Codes of Practice, how they respond when they are asked to give advice to horse owners and their communication preferences were included within the survey. All three stakeholder groups tended to seek information from people rather than from organisations, or digital and printed resources. Veterinarians were the most used information source across all three stakeholder groups This highlighted the importance of ensuring that equine veterinarians have access to up to date, evidence-based equine welfare information. While the majority of participants were aware of the equine welfare Code of Practice, fewer had actually read it, this was true particularly amongst horse owners. The primary reasons for this were the features of the Code as well as the issuing organisation. The stakeholders expressed a preference for information to be communicated in a neutral or positive way rather than focusing on negative aspects. Our findings suggest that industry professionals, particularly veterinarians, have an important role to play in knowledge transfer and the dissemination of research findings to horse owners. The efficacy of equine welfare communication could be improved if the information delivery preferences of equine stakeholders are were taken into consideration.
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Prescott, Kayna. "Optimising the welfare of equids on box rest: thinking outside the box." UK-Vet Equine 5, no. 3 (May 2, 2021): 122–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/ukve.2021.5.3.122.
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Restriction of equids to a stable for box rest is advisable for the management of acute physiological conditions. Confinement to a single stable is not an optimal environment for a horse and can create frustration and the expression of abnormal behaviours, which can indicate a reduced welfare state. Expression of aggression towards handlers or rebound behaviours when released from the stable can be a safety concern for handlers and gives the potential for reinjury. By reviewing the literature, we can consider what aspects of the environment can be adjusted to allow optimal expression of natural behaviour within the stable, subsequently reducing frustration and stress which will improve the welfare of the equine on box rest and potentially improve the safety of handlers.
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Prescott, Kayna. "Optimising the welfare of equids on box rest: thinking outside the box." UK-Vet Equine 6, no. 6 (November 2, 2022): 262–68. http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/ukve.2022.6.6.262.
Full textAbstract:
Restriction of equids to a stable for box rest is advisable for the management of acute physiological conditions. Confinement to a single stable is not an optimal environment for a horse and can create frustration and the expression of abnormal behaviours, which can indicate a reduced welfare state. Expression of aggression towards handlers or rebound behaviours when released from the stable can be a safety concern for handlers and gives the potential for reinjury. By reviewing the literature, we can consider what aspects of the environment can be adjusted to allow optimal expression of natural behaviour within the stable, subsequently reducing frustration and stress which will improve the welfare of the equine on box rest and potentially improve the safety of handlers.
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Bell, Catherine, Suzanne Rogers, Julie Taylor, and Debbie Busby. "Improving the Recognition of Equine Affective States." Animals 9, no. 12 (December 11, 2019): 1124. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani9121124.
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A key welfare problem for horses is that people commonly fail to recognise, and consequently neglect to resolve, equine behavioural signs of distress, worsening the welfare of the horse and potentially putting the safety of the handler at risk as a result. Members of equestrian Facebook groups were asked to view six videos and assess the horse’s behaviour in each; the authors selected the videos and considered each video to demonstrate behaviour associated with negative affective states. An additional six equine behaviourists also completed the survey as an “expert comparison group” from whom we could define “correct” answers; their responses were consistent with each other and the views of the authors. Although the majority of respondents successfully recognised behaviour indicative of distress in some instances, behaviour associated with negative affective states was commonly missed; videos featuring natural horsemanship and bridle-less riding were particularly interpreted incorrectly to be positive experiences for the horses. Binary logistic regression analysis (72.1% success rate) confirmed that the different video types (ridden dressage, natural horsemanship, in-hand dressage, bridle-less riding, Western reining and behavioural rehabilitation) were strong predictors for obtaining a correct answer (p < 0.01) but that experience of equine-ownership was not. Of the equestrian activities preferred by participants, only proponents of clicker training showed an increased likelihood of obtaining the correct answer (p = 0.05). Even when behavioural signs suggestive of negative affective states were recognised, a minority of respondents stated that they would be happy for their horse to be treated similarly. In conclusion, behavioural signs of equine distress are poorly recognised; they therefore warrant an increased prominence in education and the outreach activity of welfare organisations, in order to reduce equine suffering.
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Kelly, Katherine Jennifer, Laurie Anne McDuffee, and Kimberly Mears. "The Effect of Human–Horse Interactions on Equine Behaviour, Physiology, and Welfare: A Scoping Review." Animals 11, no. 10 (September 24, 2021): 2782. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani11102782.
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Human–horse interactions (HHIs) are diverse and prominent in the equine industry. Stakeholders have an invested interest in making sure that HHIs are humane. Assessment of equine welfare goes beyond physical health and includes assessment of the emotional state of the animal. HHIs can have a permanent effect on human–horse relationships, thereby influencing welfare. Therefore, an understanding of the horse’s affective state during HHIs is necessary. A scoping review was conducted to: (1) map current practices related to the measurement of HHIs; (2) explore the known effects of HHIs on horse behaviour and physiology; and (3) clarify the connection between HHIs and equine welfare. A total of 45 articles were included in this review. Studies that used both physiological and behavioural measures of equine response to human interactions accounted for 42% of the included studies. A further 31% exclusively used physiological measures and 27% used behavioural observation. Current evidence of equine welfare during HHIs is minimal and largely based on the absence of a negative affective state during imposed interactions. Broadening the scope of methods to evaluate a positive affective state and standardization of methodology to assess these states would improve the overall understanding of the horse’s welfare during HHIs.
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Gronqvist, Gabriella, Chris Rogers, Erica Gee, Audrey Martinez, and Charlotte Bolwell. "Veterinary and Equine Science Students’ Interpretation of Horse Behaviour." Animals 7, no. 12 (August 15, 2017): 63. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani7080063.
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Houpt, K. A., A. Eggleston, K. Kunkle, and T. R. Houpt. "Effect of water restriction on equine behaviour and physiology." Equine Veterinary Journal 32, no. 4 (July 2000): 341–44. http://dx.doi.org/10.2746/042516400777032200.
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HOUPT, K. A., and D. S. MILLS. "Why horse behaviour is important to the equine clinician." Equine Veterinary Journal 38, no. 5 (January 5, 2010): 386–87. http://dx.doi.org/10.2746/042516406778400538.
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SCHWABE, ALISON E. "Behaviour problems in horses in relation to training methods." Equine Veterinary Education 5, no. 3 (June 1993): 133–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3292.1993.tb01020.x.
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Rioja-Lang, Fiona C., Melanie Connor, Heather Bacon, and Cathy M. Dwyer. "Determining a Welfare Prioritization for Horses Using a Delphi Method." Animals 10, no. 4 (April 9, 2020): 647. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani10040647.
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Equine welfare issues are receiving increasing attention in the UK, but welfare problems can arise from a wide range of causes. In order to identify the most important welfare concerns for horses, we used a Delphi method with 19 equine welfare experts. An initial list of 84 equine welfare issues was generated using an online discussion board and NVivo thematic analysis. Subsequently, experts ranked these welfare issues for perceived prevalence, severity and duration of suffering associated with each issue on a 6-point Likert scale. All issues with a mean score of 3 or above (n = 37) were included in subsequent rounds. Finally, a subset of experts attended a two-day workshop to determine the final priority list of welfare issues. The welfare issues perceived to be most prevalent were lack of biosecurity, delayed euthanasia, lack of owner knowledge of equine welfare needs, fear and stress from use, and obesity. The issues considered to cause greatest suffering for individual horses were delayed euthanasia, lack of recognition by owners of pain behaviour, large worm burdens, obesity and being fed unsuitable diets for equine feeding behaviour. These outcomes can help to focus research and education interventions on the most pressing welfare issues for horses.
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WARAN, NATALIE K. "The behaviour of horses during and after transport by road." Equine Veterinary Education 5, no. 3 (June 1993): 129–32. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3292.1993.tb01019.x.
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Bonilla-Aldana, D. Katterine, Christian David Bonilla Carvajal, Emilly Moreno-Ramos, Joshuan J. Barboza, and Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales. "Mapping Eastern (EEE) and Venezuelan Equine Encephalitides (VEE) among Equines Using Geographical Information Systems, Colombia, 2008–2019." Viruses 15, no. 3 (March 8, 2023): 707. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/v15030707.
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Introduction: Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) and Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) viruses are zoonotic pathogens affecting humans, particularly equines. These neuroarboviruses compromise the central nervous system and can be fatal in different hosts. Both have significantly influenced Colombia; however, few studies analyse its behaviour, and none develop maps using geographic information systems to characterise it. Objective: To describe the temporal-spatial distribution of those viruses in Colombia between 2008 and 2019. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study, based on weekly reports by municipalities of the ICA, of the surveillance of both arboviruses in equines, in Colombia, from 2008 to 2019. The data were converted into databases in Microsoft Access 365®, and multiple epidemiological maps were generated with the Kosmo RC1®3.0 software coupled to shape files of all municipalities in the country. Results: In the study period, 96 cases of EEE and 70 of VEE were reported, with 58% of EEE cases occurring in 2016 and 20% of EEV cases in 2013. The most affected municipalities for EEE corresponded to the department of Casanare: Yopal (20), Aguazul (16), and Tauramena (10). In total, 40 municipalities in the country reported ≥1 case of EEE. Conclusions: The maps allow a quick appreciation of groups of neighbouring municipalities in different departments (1° political division) and regions of the country affected by those viruses, which helps consider the expansion of the disease associated with mobility and transport of equines between other municipalities, also including international borders, such as is the case with Venezuela. In that country, especially for EEV, municipalities in the department of Cesar are bordering and at risk for that arboviral infection. there is a high risk of equine encephalitis outbreaks, especially for VEE. This poses a risk also, for municipalities in the department of Cesar, bordering with Venezuela.
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Arrazola, Aitor, and Katrina Merkies. "Effect of Human Attachment Style on Horse Behaviour and Physiology during Equine-Assisted Activities–A Pilot Study." Animals 10, no. 7 (July 8, 2020): 1156. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani10071156.
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Equine-assisted activities (EAA) for human well-being and health rely on human–horse interactions for therapeutic effect. At-risk participants with mental and emotional difficulties can show poor social skills and functioning relationships, potentially leading to unsuccessful human–horse interaction in EAA. This study addresses the effect of the attachment style (AS) of at-risk adolescents on horse physiology and behaviour during an equine-facilitated learning (EFL) program. Thirty-three adolescents participated in a 10-week EFL program with nine therapy horses (the same therapy horse per adolescent throughout the program). Adolescent AS was categorized into secure (n = 7), preoccupied (n = 11), dismissing (n = 1), or fearful (n = 12) using an Experiences in Close Relationships – Relationship Structure questionnaire. Horse heart rate (HR) and behaviour (affiliative and avoidance behaviours) in response to adolescents were recorded during grooming and riding. Over time, horses with fearful AS adolescents showed consistently more affiliative behaviours compared to those with preoccupied AS adolescents during grooming, and more constant HR and avoidance behaviours compared to those with secure AS adolescents during riding. These results suggest that a more predictable and less stressful physiological and behavioural response of therapy horses toward participants in EAA with emotional and behavioural difficulties can be mediated by a human insecure attachment style.
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Davies, M. E., M. Pasqualicchio, F. M. D. Henson, and G. Hernandez-Vidal. "Effects of copper and zinc on chondrocyte behaviour and matrix turnover." Pferdeheilkunde Equine Medicine 12, no. 3 (1996): 367–70. http://dx.doi.org/10.21836/pem19960346.
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CROWELL-DAVIS, SHARON L. "Social behaviour of the horse and its consequences for domestic management." Equine Veterinary Education 5, no. 3 (June 1993): 148–50. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3292.1993.tb01025.x.
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Tabor, Gillian, Kathryn Nankervis, John Fernandes, and Jane Williams. "Generation of Domains for the Equine Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Outcome Score: Development by Expert Consensus." Animals 10, no. 2 (January 25, 2020): 203. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani10020203.
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Outcome measures (OMs) are a requirement of professional practice standards in human and canine physiotherapy practice for measurement of health status. Measures such as pain and functional capacity of specific regions are used to track treatment impact and can be used to develop optimal management strategies. To achieve comparable patient care in equine physiotherapy, OMs must be incorporated into practice; however, no reliable and valid OMs exist for equine rehabilitation. This study utilised the experience and opinion of a panel of experts working in the equine rehabilitation sphere to gain consensus on the core areas (domains) to be included in a model, to lead to an OM scale for horses undergoing rehabilitation. The Delphi method and content validity ratio testing was used to determine agreement with domains reaching the critical value required for inclusion. The expert panel agreed on ten domains to be included in the OM scale: lameness, pain at rest, pain during exercise, behaviour during exercise, muscular symmetry, performance/functional capacity, behaviour at rest, palpation, balance and proprioception. An OM with these domains would provide a holistic objective assessment tool which could be used by equine rehabilitation professionals in clinical practice.
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Lloyd, A. S., and J. E. Martin. "Testing a method of equine personality assessment." BSAP Occasional Publication 35 (2006): 207–11. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0263967x00042737.
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To date there have been few studies on equine personality, with many equine studies on individual differences focussing on the measurement of temperament. Personality is defined by Pervin and John (1997, ) as “Those characteristics of the person that account for consistent patterns of feeling, thinking and behaving” and is different to temperament in that it has a greater emphasis on social aspects of behaviour. Interest in this area of research has recently increased, which could be attributed to the potential implementation of personality assessment in management practices, welfare issues and potential applications in equine veterinary medicine (Mills, 1998).Assessment of animal personality often involves using human raters to assess the personality of animals familiar to them. In order to demonstrate reliable personality data three criteria should be met, these are as follows; 1) assessments made by independent observers must agree with one another, 2) these assessments must predict behaviours and real-world outcomes and 3) observer ratings must be shown to reflect genuine attributes of the individual rated and not just the observers’ implicit theories about personality (Kenrick and Funder, 1988; Gosling and Vazire, 2002).