Effect of difference in training skills on stress in horses trained by Kazakh trainers.

The research aimed to examine if the expertise of horse trainers influences stress levels in horses during the initial stages of their training, using the traditional Kazakh method. The study showed that the horses trained by high-skilled trainers were less stressed than those trained by low-skilled trainers.

Methodology

• Nine untrained horses were used in the study and divided into two groups: Group A comprising of five horses trained by two low skilled trainers, and Group B consisting of four horses trained by two high-skilled trainers.
• The trainers used the traditional Kazakh method of horse training.
• The biomarker selected to indicate stress levels was the concentration of Salivary α-amylase. It was measured immediately before and after each riding session for the entire training period.

Findings

• The researchers observed no significant difference between the two groups regarding the duration of riding and mooring times to the total riding habituation time for each horse.
• However, the mean total stress and mean final stress were significantly lower in Group B (horses trained by high-skilled trainers) than in Group A (horses trained by low-skilled trainers).
• The mean total change in stress before and after the riding habituation was significantly higher in Group B, again suggesting lower levels of stress in this group.

Conclusion

• The findings of the study support the hypothesis that the skill level of the trainer can impact the stress experience of horses during training.
• Difference in the application of stress during training could explain why high-skilled trainers were better at mitigating stress levels.
• Overall, it shows the importance of correct and skilled training methods in reducing stress during the horse’s early training period.