FREE SHIPPING over $40
OVER 10000 FIVE-STAR REVIEWS
5% OFF ALL SUBSCRIPTIONS
100% HAPPINESS GUARANTEE
Analyze Diet
0
Veterinary sciences2017; 4(3); 44; doi: 10.3390/vetsci4030044

Equine Assisted Interventions (EAIs): Methodological Considerations for Stress Assessment in Horses.

Abstract: Equine assisted interventions (EAIs) are recently facing an increasing popularity, and are characterized by a wide diversity of practices. However, information on the welfare of animals involved in this kind of activity is often lacking. Horses are highly susceptible to work stressors related to physical constraints and/or to the need to control emotions while interacting with humans. Considerations of the emotional state of horses involved in EAIs have multiple valences: for the safety of humans and animals involved, for the quality and efficacy of interventions, as well as for ethical reasons. The aim of this unsystematic narrative review is to summarize the different approaches used for the evaluation of horses' stress responses, investigate their application in the context of EAIs, and discuss some methodological considerations for researchers and practitioners involved in EAI. The sources of information are mostly based on electronic databases (i.e., Medline, Scopus and Google scholar), as well as on hand searches of the references of retrieved literature, and discussions with experts in the field. At present, a few studies have investigated horses' stress responses during EAIs, and further studies are recommended, with the final aim to derive a reliable multidimensional method for assessing a horse's reaction during therapeutic programs, ultimately helping professionals to better develop interventions by taking into consideration the animal's perspective.
Get Full Text
Publication Date: 2017-09-08 PubMed ID: 29056702PubMed Central: PMC5644660DOI: 10.3390/vetsci4030044Google Scholar: Lookup
The Equine Research Bank provides access to a large database of publicly available scientific literature. Inclusion in the Research Bank does not imply endorsement of study methods or findings by Mad Barn.
LinkedInCopy
  • Journal Article
  • Review

Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

The research article is about the examination of stress responses in horses involved in Equine Assisted Interventions (EAIs), to ensure the welfare of the animals and improve the efficacy of interventions.

Article Overview

The study provides a narrative review that assesses the various methodologies employed to evaluate stress responses in horses engaged in Equine Assisted Interventions (EAIs).

  • This paper acknowledges the increasing popularity of EAIs but also highlights a major concern; the lack of available information on the welfare of horses used in such programs.
  • Given that horses are vulnerable to stressors related to physical labour and emotional management during human interaction, understanding their emotional state during EAIs is seen as crucial not only for ethical reasons but also for the safety and efficacy of the interventions.

Research Methodology

The review bases its findings on a comprehensive analysis of literature on the subject acquired from electronic databases such as Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar.

  • It also encompasses a thorough examination of references from other retrieved literature and expert opinions in the field.

Key Findings and Conclusion

Upon the review, the research indicates a deficiency in studies that explore horses’ stress responses during EAIs.

  • Most existing studies lack a consistent method for evaluating a horse’s reaction to stress during therapeutic programs.
  • This research therefore strongly recommends further studies aiming at developing a consistent, multidimensional approach for assessing a horse’s reaction during EAIs.
  • The authors believe such a method will contribute significantly towards improving the design of interventions by considering the welfare of the animals involved.

Cite This Article

APA
De Santis M, Contalbrigo L, Borgi M, Cirulli F, Luzi F, Redaelli V, Stefani A, Toson M, Odore R, Vercelli C, Valle E, Farina L. (2017). Equine Assisted Interventions (EAIs): Methodological Considerations for Stress Assessment in Horses. Vet Sci, 4(3), 44. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci4030044

Publication

Veterinary sciences
ISSN: 2306-7381
NlmUniqueID: 101680127
Country: Switzerland
Language: English
Volume: 4
Issue: 3
PII: 44

Researcher Affiliations

De Santis, Marta
  • Italian National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy. mdesantis@izsvenezie.it.
Contalbrigo, Laura
  • Italian National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy. lcontalbrigo@izsvenezie.it.
Borgi, Marta
  • Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy. marta.borgi@iss.it.
Cirulli, Francesca
  • Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy. francesca.cirulli@iss.it.
Luzi, Fabio
  • Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy. fabio.luzi@unimi.it.
Redaelli, Veronica
  • Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy. veronica.redaelli@unimi.it.
Stefani, Annalisa
  • Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy. astefani@izsvenezie.it.
Toson, Marica
  • Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy. mtoson@izsvenezie.it.
Odore, Rosangela
  • Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy. rosangela.odore@unito.it.
Vercelli, Cristina
  • Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy. cristina.vercelli@unito.it.
Valle, Emanuela
  • Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy. emanuela.valle@unito.it.
Farina, Luca
  • Italian National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy. lfarina@izsvenezie.it.

Conflict of Interest Statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References

This article includes 114 references
  1. Pasquinelli A, Allori P, Papini M. Manuale di Riabilitazione Equestre: Principi, Metodologia, Organizzazione. Sorbello; Millesimo, Italia: 2009. Riabilitazione Equestre: Definizione e stato dell’arte; pp. 25–35.
  2. Accordo tra il Governo, le Regioni e le Province Autonome di Trento e di Bolzano sul Documento Recante Linee Guida Nazionali per gli Interventi Assistiti con gli Animali (IAA) [(accessed on 16 June 2017)]; Available online: http://www.regioni.it/sanita/2015/04/07/conferenza-stato-regioni-del-25-03-2015-accordo-tra-il-governo-le-regioni-e-le-provinceautonome-di-trento-e-di-bolzano-sul-documento-recante-linee-guida-nazionali-pergli-interventi-assistiti-con-398056/ (In Italian)
  3. International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations (IAHAIO). The IAHAIO Definitions for Animal Assisted Intervention and Animal Assisted Activity and Guidelines for Wellness of Animals Involved. .
  4. De Santis M, Contalbrigo L, Simonato M, Ruzza M, Toson M, Farina L. Animal assisted interventions in practice: Mapping Italian providers. Vet. Ital. 2017 (accepted).
  5. Fredrickson-MacNamara M, Butlery K. Animal selection procedures in animal-assisted interaction programs. In: Fine A.H., editor. Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy: Theoretical Foundations and Guidelines for Practice. 3rd ed. Academic Press; San Francisco, CA, USA: 2010. pp. 111–134.
  6. Hausberger M, Roche H, Henry S, Visser E.K. A review of the human–horse relationship. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2008;109:1–24.
    doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2007.04.015google scholar: lookup
  7. Grandgeorge M, Hausberger M. Human-animal relationships: from daily life to animal-assisted therapies.. Ann Ist Super Sanita 2011;47(4):397-408.
    doi: 10.4415/ANN_11_04_12pubmed: 22194075google scholar: lookup
  8. All A.C, Loving G.L, Crane L.L. Animals, Horseback Riding, and Implications for Rehabilitation Therapy. J. Rehabil. 1999;65:49–57.
  9. Schultz PN, Remick-Barlow GA, Robbins L. Equine-assisted psychotherapy: a mental health promotion/intervention modality for children who have experienced intra-family violence.. Health Soc Care Community 2007 May;15(3):265-71.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2524.2006.00684.xpubmed: 17444990google scholar: lookup
  10. Tsantefski M, Briggs L, Griffiths J, Tidyman A. An open trial of equine-assisted therapy for children exposed to problematic parental substance use.. Health Soc Care Community 2017 May;25(3):1247-1256.
    doi: 10.1111/hsc.12427pubmed: 28147452google scholar: lookup
  11. Winchester P, Kendall K, Peters H, Sears N, Winkley T. The effect of therapeutic horseback riding on gross motor function and gait speed in children who are developmentally delayed.. Phys Occup Ther Pediatr 2002;22(3-4):37-50.
    doi: 10.1080/J006v22n03_04pubmed: 12506820google scholar: lookup
  12. Sterba JA. Does horseback riding therapy or therapist-directed hippotherapy rehabilitate children with cerebral palsy?. Dev Med Child Neurol 2007 Jan;49(1):68-73.
    doi: 10.1017/S0012162207000175.xpubmed: 17209981google scholar: lookup
  13. Del Rosario-Montejo O, Molina-Rueda F, Muñoz-Lasa S, Alguacil-Diego IM. Effectiveness of equine therapy in children with psychomotor impairment.. Neurologia 2015 Sep;30(7):425-32.
    doi: 10.1016/j.nrl.2013.12.023pubmed: 24656851google scholar: lookup
  14. Borgi M, Loliva D, Cerino S, Chiarotti F, Venerosi A, Bramini M, Nonnis E, Marcelli M, Vinti C, De Santis C, Bisacco F, Fagerlie M, Frascarelli M, Cirulli F. Effectiveness of a Standardized Equine-Assisted Therapy Program for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.. J Autism Dev Disord 2016 Jan;46(1):1-9.
    doi: 10.1007/s10803-015-2530-6pubmed: 26210515google scholar: lookup
  15. Gabriels R.L, Agnew J.A, Holt K.D, Shoffner A, Zhaoxing P, Ruzzano S, Clayton G.H, Mesibov G. Pilot study measuring the effects of therapeutic horseback riding on school-age children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. Res. Autism Spectr. Disord. 2012;6:578–588.
    doi: 10.1016/j.rasd.2011.09.007google scholar: lookup
  16. Hauge H, Kvalem IL, Berget B, Enders-Slegers MJ, Braastad BO. Equine-assisted activities and the impact on perceived social support, self-esteem and self-efficacy among adolescents - an intervention study.. Int J Adolesc Youth 2014 Mar;19(1):1-21.
    doi: 10.1080/02673843.2013.779587pmc: PMC4017275pubmed: 24833811google scholar: lookup
  17. Gabriels RL, Pan Z, Dechant B, Agnew JA, Brim N, Mesibov G. Randomized Controlled Trial of Therapeutic Horseback Riding in Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder.. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2015 Jul;54(7):541-9.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jaac.2015.04.007pmc: PMC4475278pubmed: 26088658google scholar: lookup
  18. Cho SH. Effects of horseback riding exercise on the relative alpha power spectrum in the elderly.. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2017 May-Jun;70:141-147.
    doi: 10.1016/j.archger.2017.01.011pubmed: 28135668google scholar: lookup
  19. Lechner HE, Feldhaus S, Gudmundsen L, Hegemann D, Michel D, Zäch GA, Knecht H. The short-term effect of hippotherapy on spasticity in patients with spinal cord injury.. Spinal Cord 2003 Sep;41(9):502-5.
    doi: 10.1038/sj.sc.3101492pubmed: 12934090google scholar: lookup
  20. Dabelko-Schoeny H, Phillips G, Darrough E, DeAnna S, Jarden M, Johnson D, Lorch G. Equine-Assisted Intervention for people with dementia. Anthrozoos. 2014;27:141–155.
    doi: 10.2752/175303714X13837396326611google scholar: lookup
  21. Borioni N, Marinaro P, Celestini S, Del Sole F, Magro R, Zoppi D, Mattei F, Dall' Armi V, Mazzarella F, Cesario A, Bonassi S. Effect of equestrian therapy and onotherapy in physical and psycho-social performances of adults with intellectual disability: a preliminary study of evaluation tools based on the ICF classification.. Disabil Rehabil 2012;34(4):279-87.
    doi: 10.3109/09638288.2011.605919pubmed: 21988646google scholar: lookup
  22. Farias-Tomaszewski S, Jenkins S.R, Keller J. An evaluation of therapeutic horseback riding programs for adults with physical impairments. Ther. Recreat. J. 2001;35:250–257.
  23. Kendall E, Maujean A, Pepping C.A, Downes M, Lakhani A, Byrne J, Macfarlane K. A systematic review of the efficacy of equine-assisted interventions on psychological outcomes. Eur. J. Psychother. Couns. 2015;17:57–79.
    doi: 10.1080/13642537.2014.996169google scholar: lookup
  24. Rigby BR, Grandjean PW. The Efficacy of Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies on Improving Physical Function.. J Altern Complement Med 2016 Jan;22(1):9-24.
    doi: 10.1089/acm.2015.0171pubmed: 26654868google scholar: lookup
  25. Smith-Osborne A, Selby A. Implications of the Literature on Equine-Assisted Activities for Use as a Complementary Intervention in Social Work Practice with Children and Adolescents. Child Adolesc. Soc. Work J. 2010;27:291–307.
    doi: 10.1007/s10560-010-0201-1google scholar: lookup
  26. Wilkie K.D, Germain S, Theule J. Evaluating the efficacy of Equine Therapy among at-risk youth: A meta-analysis. Anthrozoos. 2016;29:377–393.
    doi: 10.1080/08927936.2016.1189747google scholar: lookup
  27. Mackinnon JR, Noh S, Laliberte D, Allan DE, Lariviere J. Therapeutic horseback riding:. Phys Occup Ther Pediatr 1995;15(1):1-15.
    doi: 10.1080/J006v15n01_01pubmed: 21275621google scholar: lookup
  28. Anestis MD, Anestis JC, Zawilinski LL, Hopkins TA, Lilienfeld SO. Equine-related treatments for mental disorders lack empirical support: a systematic review of empirical investigations.. J Clin Psychol 2014 Dec;70(12):1115-32.
    doi: 10.1002/jclp.22113pubmed: 24953870google scholar: lookup
  29. Hausberger M, Gautier E, Biquand V, Lunel C, Jégo P. Could work be a source of behavioural disorders? A study in horses.. PLoS One 2009 Oct 28;4(10):e7625.
    doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0007625pmc: PMC2763287pubmed: 19862328google scholar: lookup
  30. American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V). American Psychiatric Publishing; Arlington, VA, USA: 2013.
  31. Hartley SL, Sikora DM, McCoy R. Prevalence and risk factors of maladaptive behaviour in young children with Autistic Disorder.. J Intellect Disabil Res 2008 Oct;52(10):819-29.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2788.2008.01065.xpmc: PMC2838711pubmed: 18444989google scholar: lookup
  32. Etim N.N, Williams M.E, Evans E.I, Offiong E.E. Physiological and behavioural responses of farm animals to stress: Implications to animal productivity. Am. J. Adv. Agric. Res. 2013;1:53–61.
  33. König v. Borstel U, Visser E.K, Hall C. Indicators of stress in equitation. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2017;190:43–56.
    doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2017.02.018google scholar: lookup
  34. Keeling LJ, Jonare L, Lanneborn L. Investigating horse-human interactions: the effect of a nervous human.. Vet J 2009 Jul;181(1):70-1.
    doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2009.03.013pubmed: 19394879google scholar: lookup
  35. Merkies K, Sievers A, Zakrajsek E, MacGregor H, Bergeron R, König von Borstel U. Preliminary results suggest an influence of psychological and physiological stress in humans on horse heart rate and behavior. J. Vet. Behav. 2014;9:242–247.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2014.06.003google scholar: lookup
  36. Pierard M, Hall C, König von Borstel U, Averis A, Hawson L, McLean A, Nevison C, Visser K, McGreevy P. Evolving protocols for research in equitation science. J. Vet. Behav. 2015;10:255–266.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2015.01.006google scholar: lookup
  37. Brown R.E. An Introduction to Neuroendocrinology. Cambridge University Press; Cambridge, UK: 1994.
  38. McEwen BS. Stress, adaptation, and disease. Allostasis and allostatic load.. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1998 May 1;840:33-44.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.1998.tb09546.xpubmed: 9629234google scholar: lookup
  39. Dhabhar FS. Effects of stress on immune function: the good, the bad, and the beautiful.. Immunol Res 2014 May;58(2-3):193-210.
    doi: 10.1007/s12026-014-8517-0pubmed: 24798553google scholar: lookup
  40. Möstl E, Palme R. Hormones as indicators of stress.. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2002 Jul;23(1-2):67-74.
    doi: 10.1016/S0739-7240(02)00146-7pubmed: 12142227google scholar: lookup
  41. Manteca X. Neurophysiology and assessment of welfare.. Meat Sci 1998;49S1:S205-18.
    doi: 10.1016/S0309-1740(98)90049-3pubmed: 22060712google scholar: lookup
  42. Hada T, Onaka T, Takahashi T, Hiraga A, Yagi K. Effects of novelty stress on neuroendocrine activities and running performance in thoroughbred horses.. J Neuroendocrinol 2003 Jul;15(7):638-48.
    doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2826.2003.01042.xpubmed: 12787048google scholar: lookup
  43. Kyrou I, Tsigos C. Stress mechanisms and metabolic complications.. Horm Metab Res 2007 Jun;39(6):430-8.
    doi: 10.1055/s-2007-981462pubmed: 17578760google scholar: lookup
  44. Zouhal H, Jacob C, Delamarche P, Gratas-Delamarche A. Catecholamines and the effects of exercise, training and gender.. Sports Med 2008;38(5):401-23.
    doi: 10.2165/00007256-200838050-00004pubmed: 18416594google scholar: lookup
  45. Cuniberti B, Badino P, Odore R, Girardi C, Re G. Effects induced by exercise on lymphocyte β-adrenergic receptors and plasma catecholamine levels in performance horses.. Res Vet Sci 2012 Feb;92(1):116-20.
    doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2010.11.002pubmed: 21168179google scholar: lookup
  46. Ayala I, Martos NF, Silvan G, Gutierrez-Panizo C, Clavel JG, Illera JC. Cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone, serotonin, adrenaline and noradrenaline serum concentrations in relation to disease and stress in the horse.. Res Vet Sci 2012 Aug;93(1):103-7.
    doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2011.05.013pubmed: 21641009google scholar: lookup
  47. Baragli P, Sgorbini M, Casini L, Ducci M, Sighieri C. Early Evidence of the Anticipatory Response of Plasma Catecholamine in Equine Exercise. J. Equine Vet. Sci. 2011;31:85–88.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2010.12.005google scholar: lookup
  48. Lay DC Jr, Friend TH, Bowers CL, Grissom KK, Jenkins OC. A comparative physiological and behavioral study of freeze and hot-iron branding using dairy cows.. J Anim Sci 1992 Apr;70(4):1121-5.
    doi: 10.2527/1992.7041121xpubmed: 1582942google scholar: lookup
  49. Hampson E, Phillips SD, Soares CN, Steiner M. Steroid concentrations in antepartum and postpartum saliva: normative values in women and correlations with serum.. Biol Sex Differ 2013 Apr 10;4(1):7.
    doi: 10.1186/2042-6410-4-7pmc: PMC3635986pubmed: 23575245google scholar: lookup
  50. von Lewinski M, Biau S, Erber R, Ille N, Aurich J, Faure JM, Möstl E, Aurich C. Cortisol release, heart rate and heart rate variability in the horse and its rider: different responses to training and performance.. Vet J 2013 Aug;197(2):229-32.
    doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2012.12.025pubmed: 23380228google scholar: lookup
  51. Christensen JW, Beekmans M, van Dalum M, VanDierendonck M. Effects of hyperflexion on acute stress responses in ridden dressage horses.. Physiol Behav 2014 Apr 10;128:39-45.
    doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.01.024pubmed: 24518858google scholar: lookup
  52. Aurich J, Wulf M, Ille N, Erber R, von Lewinski M, Palme R, Aurich C. Effects of season, age, sex, and housing on salivary cortisol concentrations in horses.. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2015 Jul;52:11-6.
    doi: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2015.01.003pubmed: 25700267google scholar: lookup
  53. Hart KA, Wochele DM, Norton NA, McFarlane D, Wooldridge AA, Frank N. Effect of Age, Season, Body Condition, and Endocrine Status on Serum Free Cortisol Fraction and Insulin Concentration in Horses.. J Vet Intern Med 2016 Mar-Apr;30(2):653-63.
    doi: 10.1111/jvim.13839pmc: PMC4913614pubmed: 26860336google scholar: lookup
  54. Cordero M, Brorsen BW, McFarlane D. Circadian and circannual rhythms of cortisol, ACTH, and α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in healthy horses.. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2012 Nov;43(4):317-24.
    doi: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2012.05.005pubmed: 22717182google scholar: lookup
  55. Fuentes-Rubio M, Fuentes F, Otal J, Quiles A, Tecles F, Cern J.J, Hevia M.L. Measurements of salivary alpha-amylase in horse: Comparison of 2 different assays. J. Vet. Behav. 2015;10:122–127.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2014.12.008google scholar: lookup
  56. Bosch JA, Ring C, de Geus EJ, Veerman EC, Amerongen AV. Stress and secretory immunity.. Int Rev Neurobiol 2002;52:213-53.
    pubmed: 12498106doi: 10.1016/s0074-7742(02)52011-0google scholar: lookup
  57. Nater UM, Rohleder N. Salivary alpha-amylase as a non-invasive biomarker for the sympathetic nervous system: current state of research.. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2009 May;34(4):486-96.
    doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2009.01.014pubmed: 19249160google scholar: lookup
  58. Furlan NF, Gavião MB, Barbosa TS, Nicolau J, Castelo PM. Salivary cortisol, alpha-amylase and heart rate variation in response to dental treatment in children.. J Clin Pediatr Dent 2012 Fall;37(1):83-7.
    doi: 10.17796/jcpd.37.1.n32m21n08417v363pubmed: 23342572google scholar: lookup
  59. Rashkova MR, Ribagin LS, Toneva NG. Correlation between salivary alpha-amylase and stress-related anxiety.. Folia Med (Plovdiv) 2012 Apr-Jun;54(2):46-51.
    doi: 10.2478/v10153-011-0088-4pubmed: 23101285google scholar: lookup
  60. Fuentes M, Tecles F, Gutiérrez A, Otal J, Martínez-Subiela S, Cerón JJ. Validation of an automated method for salivary alpha-amylase measurements in pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus) and its application as a stress biomarker.. J Vet Diagn Invest 2011 Mar;23(2):282-7.
    doi: 10.1177/104063871102300213pubmed: 21398448google scholar: lookup
  61. Muneta Y, Yoshikawa T, Minagawa Y, Shibahara T, Maeda R, Omata Y. Salivary IgA as a useful non-invasive marker for restraint stress in pigs.. J Vet Med Sci 2010 Oct;72(10):1295-300.
    doi: 10.1292/jvms.10-0009pubmed: 20467204google scholar: lookup
  62. Weckesser LJ, Plessow F, Pilhatsch M, Muehlhan M, Kirschbaum C, Miller R. Do venepuncture procedures induce cortisol responses? A review, study, and synthesis for stress research.. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014 Aug;46:88-99.
    doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.04.012pubmed: 24882161google scholar: lookup
  63. Grandin T. Assessment of stress during handling and transport.. J Anim Sci 1997 Jan;75(1):249-57.
    doi: 10.2527/1997.751249xpubmed: 9027573google scholar: lookup
  64. Blackshaw JK, Blackshaw AW. Limitations of salivary and blood cortisol determinations in pigs.. Vet Res Commun 1989;13(4):265-71.
    doi: 10.1007/BF00420834pubmed: 2528857google scholar: lookup
  65. Merlot E, Mounier AM, Prunier A. Endocrine response of gilts to various common stressors: a comparison of indicators and methods of analysis.. Physiol Behav 2011 Mar 1;102(3-4):259-65.
    doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2010.11.009pubmed: 21109031google scholar: lookup
  66. Hainsworth R. The control and physiological importance of heart rate. In: Malik M., Camm A.J., editors. Heart Rate Variability. Futura Publishing Company; Armonk, NY, USA: 1995. pp. 3–19.
  67. Kleiger RE. Heart rate variability and mortality and sudden death post infarction.. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 1995 May;6(5):365-7.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8167.1995.tb00409.xpubmed: 7551305google scholar: lookup
  68. Poletto R, Janczak AM, Marchant-Forde RM, Marchant JN, Matthews DL, Dowell CA, Hogan DF, Freeman LJ, Lay DC Jr. Identification of low and high frequency ranges for heart rate variability and blood pressure variability analyses using pharmacological autonomic blockade with atropine and propranolol in swine.. Physiol Behav 2011 May 3;103(2):188-96.
    doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2011.01.019pubmed: 21281655google scholar: lookup
  69. Rietmann T.R, Stuart A, Bernasconi P, Staﾬher M, Auer J.A, Weishaupt M.A. Assessment of mental stress in warmblood horses: Heart rate variability in comparison to heart rate and selected behavioural parameters. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2004;88:121–136.
    doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2004.02.016google scholar: lookup
  70. von Borell E, Langbein J, Després G, Hansen S, Leterrier C, Marchant J, Marchant-Forde R, Minero M, Mohr E, Prunier A, Valance D, Veissier I. Heart rate variability as a measure of autonomic regulation of cardiac activity for assessing stress and welfare in farm animals -- a review.. Physiol Behav 2007 Oct 22;92(3):293-316.
    doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2007.01.007pubmed: 17320122google scholar: lookup
  71. Stucke D, Ruse M.G, Lebelt D. Measuring heart rate variability in horses to investigate the autonomic nervous system activit––yPros and cons of different methods. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2015;166:1–10.
    doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.02.007google scholar: lookup
  72. Schmidt A, Möstl E, Wehnert C, Aurich J, Müller J, Aurich C. Cortisol release and heart rate variability in horses during road transport.. Horm Behav 2010 Feb;57(2):209-15.
    doi: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2009.11.003pubmed: 19944105google scholar: lookup
  73. Munsters CC, Visser KE, van den Broek J, Sloet van Oldruitenborgh-Oosterbaan MM. The influence of challenging objects and horse-rider matching on heart rate, heart rate variability and behavioural score in riding horses.. Vet J 2012 Apr;192(1):75-80.
    doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2011.04.011pubmed: 21612959google scholar: lookup
  74. Rietmann TR, Staﾬher M, Bernasconi P, Auer JA, Weishaupt MA. The association between heart rate, heart rate variability, endocrine and behavioural pain measures in horses suffering from laminitis.. J Vet Med A Physiol Pathol Clin Med 2004 Jun;51(5):218-25.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0442.2004.00627.xpubmed: 15315700google scholar: lookup
  75. Gehrke E.K, Baldwin A, Schiltz P.M. Heart rate variability in horses engaged in equine-assisted activities. J. Equine Vet. Sci. 2011;31:78–84.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2010.12.007google scholar: lookup
  76. Luzi F, Mitchell M, Nanni C, Redaelli V. Thermography: Current Status and Advances in Livestock Animals and in Veterinary Medicine. Fondazione Iniziative Zooprofilattiche E Zootecniche; Brescia, Italy: 2013.
  77. Kuraoka K, Nakamura K. The use of nasal skin temperature measurements in studying emotion in macaque monkeys.. Physiol Behav 2011 Mar 1;102(3-4):347-55.
    doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2010.11.029pubmed: 21130103google scholar: lookup
  78. Ludwig N, Gargano M, Luzi F, Carenzi C, Verga M. Applicability of infrared thermography as a non invasive measurements of stress in rabbit. World Rabbit Sci. 2010;15:199–206.
    doi: 10.4995/wrs.2007.588google scholar: lookup
  79. Vianna DM, Carrive P. Changes in cutaneous and body temperature during and after conditioned fear to context in the rat.. Eur J Neurosci 2005 May;21(9):2505-12.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2005.04073.xpubmed: 15932607google scholar: lookup
  80. Bartolomé E, Sánchez MJ, Molina A, Schaefer AL, Cervantes I, Valera M. Using eye temperature and heart rate for stress assessment in young horses competing in jumping competitions and its possible influence on sport performance.. Animal 2013 Dec;7(12):2044-53.
    doi: 10.1017/S1751731113001626pubmed: 24067493google scholar: lookup
  81. Goodwin D. The importance of ethology in understanding the behaviour of the horse.. Equine Vet J Suppl 1999 Apr;(28):15-9.
    doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1999.tb05150.xpubmed: 11314229google scholar: lookup
  82. McGreevy P. Equine Behavior: A Guide for Veterinarians and Equine Scientists. Saunders; London, UK: 2004.
  83. Outram AK, Stear NA, Bendrey R, Olsen S, Kasparov A, Zaibert V, Thorpe N, Evershed RP. The earliest horse harnessing and milking.. Science 2009 Mar 6;323(5919):1332-5.
    doi: 10.1126/science.1168594pubmed: 19265018google scholar: lookup
  84. Goodwin D. Horse behaviour: Evolution, domestication and feralisation. In: Waran N., editor. The Welfare of Horses. Kluwer Academic Publishers; Dordrecht, The Netherlands: 2007. pp. 1–18.
  85. Budzyńska M. Stress reactivity and coping in horse adaptation to environment. J. Equine Vet. Sci. 2014;34:935–941.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2014.05.010google scholar: lookup
  86. Cooper J, McGreevy P. Stereotypic behaviour in the stabled horse: Causes, effects and prevention without compromising horse welfare. In: Waran N., editor. The Welfare of Horses. Kluwer Academic Publishers; Dordrecht, The Netherlands: 2007. pp. 99–124.
  87. Anderson M.K, Friend T.H, Evans J.W, Bushong D.M. Behavioral assessment of horses in therapeutic riding programs. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 1999;63:11–24.
    doi: 10.1016/S0168-1591(98)00237-8google scholar: lookup
  88. Visser EK, van Reenen CG, van der Werf JT, Schilder MB, Knaap JH, Barneveld A, Blokhuis HJ. Heart rate and heart rate variability during a novel object test and a handling test in young horses.. Physiol Behav 2002 Jun 1;76(2):289-96.
    doi: 10.1016/S0031-9384(02)00698-4pubmed: 12044602google scholar: lookup
  89. Visser E.K, Van Reenen C.G, Hopster H, Schilder M, Knaap J.H, Barneveld A, Blokhuis H.J. Quantifying aspects of young horses’ temperament: Consistency of behavioural variables. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2001;74:241–258.
    doi: 10.1016/S0168-1591(01)00177-0google scholar: lookup
  90. Visser EK, Van Reenen CG, Rundgren M, Zetterqvist M, Morgan K, Blokhuis HJ. Responses of horses in behavioural tests correlate with temperament assessed by riders.. Equine Vet J 2003 Mar;35(2):176-83.
    doi: 10.2746/042516403776114108pubmed: 12638795google scholar: lookup
  91. Seaman S.C, Davidson H, Waran N.K. How reliable is temperament assessment in the domestic horse (Equus caballus)?. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2002;78:175–191.
    doi: 10.1016/S0168-1591(02)00095-3google scholar: lookup
  92. Hall C, Kay R, Yarnell K. Assessing ridden horse behavior: Professional judgment and physiological measures. J. Vet. Behav. 2013;9:22–29.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2013.09.005google scholar: lookup
  93. Hall C, Heleski C. The role of the ethogram in equitation science. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2017;190:102–110.
    doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2017.02.013google scholar: lookup
  94. Visser EK, VanDierendonck M, Ellis AD, Rijksen C, Van Reenen CG. A comparison of sympathetic and conventional training methods on responses to initial horse training.. Vet J 2009 Jul;181(1):48-52.
    doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2009.03.009pubmed: 19375363google scholar: lookup
  95. Von Borstel U.U, Duncan I.J.H, Shoveller A.K, Merkies K, Keeling L.J, Millman S.T. Impact of riding in a coercively obtained Rollkur posture on welfare and fear of performance horses. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2009;116:228–236.
    doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2008.10.001google scholar: lookup
  96. McLean A.N, McGreevy P.D. Horse-training techniques that may defy the principles of learning theory and compromise welfare. J. Vet. Behav. 2010;5:187–195.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2010.04.002google scholar: lookup
  97. McGreevy P.D, McLean A.N. Roles of learning theory and ethology in equitation. J. Vet. Behav. 2007;2:108–118.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2007.05.003google scholar: lookup
  98. Hall C, Goodwin D, Heleski C, Randle H, Waran N. Is there evidence of learned helplessness in horses?. J Appl Anim Welf Sci 2008;11(3):249-66.
    doi: 10.1080/10888700802101130pubmed: 18569222google scholar: lookup
  99. Fureix C, Beaulieu C, Argaud S, Rochais C, Quinton M, Henry S, Hausberger M, Mason G. Investigating anhedonia in a non-conventional species: Do some riding horses Equus caballus display symptoms of depression?. Appl. Anim. Behav. Sci. 2015;162:26–36.
    doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2014.11.007google scholar: lookup
  100. Fureix C, Jego P, Henry S, Lansade L, Hausberger M. Towards an ethological animal model of depression? A study on horses.. PLoS One 2012;7(6):e39280.
    doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0039280pmc: PMC3386251pubmed: 22761752google scholar: lookup
  101. Kaiser L, Heleski CR, Siegford J, Smith KA. Stress-related behaviors among horses used in a therapeutic riding program.. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2006 Jan 1;228(1):39-45.
    doi: 10.2460/javma.228.1.39pubmed: 16426164google scholar: lookup
  102. Cayado P, Muñoz-Escassi B, Domínguez C, Manley W, Olabarri B, Sánchez de la Muela M, Castejon F, Marañon G, Vara E. Hormone response to training and competition in athletic horses.. Equine Vet J Suppl 2006 Aug;(36):274-8.
    doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2006.tb05552.xpubmed: 17402431google scholar: lookup
  103. Medica P, Giacoppo E, Fazio E, Aveni F, Pellizzotto R, Ferlazzo A. Cortisol and haematochemical variables of horses during a two day trekking event: effects of preliminary transport.. Equine Vet J Suppl 2010 Nov;(38):167-70.
    doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2010.00197.xpubmed: 21059001google scholar: lookup
  104. Johnson R.A, Johnson P.J, Megarani D.V, Patel S.D, Yaglom H.D, Osterlind S, Grindler K, Vogelweid C.M, Parker T.M, Pascua C.K. Horses working in therapeutic riding programs: Cortisol, ACTH, glucose, and behavior stress indicators. J. Equine Vet. Sci. 2017.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2017.05.006google scholar: lookup
  105. Fazio E, Medica P, Cravana C, Ferlazzo A. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responses of horses to therapeutic riding program: effects of different riders.. Physiol Behav 2013 Jun 13;118:138-43.
    doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2013.05.009pubmed: 23684906google scholar: lookup
  106. McKinney C, Mueller M.K, Frank N. Effects of Therapeutic Riding on Measures of Stress in Horses. J. Equine Vet. Sci. 2015;35:922–928.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2015.08.015google scholar: lookup
  107. van Weeren PR, Back W. Musculoskeletal Disease in Aged Horses and Its Management.. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2016 Aug;32(2):229-47.
    doi: 10.1016/j.cveq.2016.04.003pubmed: 27449390google scholar: lookup
  108. Serpell J.A, Coppinger R, Fine A.H, Peralta J.M. Welfare considerations in therapy and assistance animals. In: Fine A.H., editor. Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy: Theoretical Foundations and Guidelines for Practice. 3rd ed. Academic Press; San Francisco, CA, USA: 2010. pp. 481–502.
  109. Hama H, Yogo M, Matsuyama Y. Effects of stroking horses on both humans’ and horses’ heart rate responses. Jpn. Psychol. Res. 1996;38:66–73.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1468-5884.1996.tb00009.xgoogle scholar: lookup
  110. McBride SD, Mills DS. Psychological factors affecting equine performance.. BMC Vet Res 2012 Sep 27;8:180.
    doi: 10.1186/1746-6148-8-180pmc: PMC3514365pubmed: 23016987google scholar: lookup
  111. Visser EK, Van Reenen CG, Blokhuis MZ, Morgan EK, Hassmén P, Rundgren TM, Blokhuis HJ. Does horse temperament influence horse-rider cooperation?. J Appl Anim Welf Sci 2008;11(3):267-84.
    doi: 10.1080/10888700802101254pubmed: 18569223google scholar: lookup
  112. Ludwig N, Luzi F, Ricca R. La Termografia: Teoria ed Applicazioni. Le Point Veterinaire Italie; Milano, Italy: 2015.
  113. Redaelli V, Bergero D, Zucca E, Ferrucci F, Costa L.N, Crosta L, Luzi F. Use of Thermography Techniques in Equines: Principles and Applications. J. Equine Vet. Sci. 2014;34:345–350.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jevs.2013.07.007google scholar: lookup
  114. Mills DS. Applying learning theory to the management of the horse: the difference between getting it right and getting it wrong.. Equine Vet J Suppl 1998 Nov;(27):44-8.
    doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1998.tb05145.xpubmed: 10485004google scholar: lookup

Citations

This article has been cited 23 times.
  1. Rochais C, Lerch N, Gueguen L, Schmidlin M, Bonamy O, Grandgeorge M, Hausberger M. Horses' Tactile Reactivity Differs According to the Type of Work: The Example of Equine-Assisted Intervention. Vet Sci 2023 Feb 7;10(2).
    doi: 10.3390/vetsci10020130pubmed: 36851434google scholar: lookup
  2. Kapteijn CM, Frippiat T, van Beckhoven C, van Lith HA, Endenburg N, Vermetten E, Rodenburg TB. Measuring heart rate variability using a heart rate monitor in horses (Equus caballus) during groundwork. Front Vet Sci 2022;9:939534.
    doi: 10.3389/fvets.2022.939534pubmed: 36483490google scholar: lookup
  3. Lavín-Pérez AM, Collado-Mateo D, Caña-Pino A, Villafaina S, Parraca JA, Apolo-Arenas MD. Benefits of Equine-Assisted Therapies in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2022;2022:9656503.
    doi: 10.1155/2022/9656503pubmed: 35529929google scholar: lookup
  4. Mignot A, de Luca K, Servais V, Leboucher G. Handlers' Representations on Therapy Dogs' Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2022 Feb 25;12(5).
    doi: 10.3390/ani12050580pubmed: 35268155google scholar: lookup
  5. Hernández-Avalos I, Mota-Rojas D, Mendoza-Flores JE, Casas-Alvarado A, Flores-Padilla K, Miranda-Cortes AE, Torres-Bernal F, Gómez-Prado J, Mora-Medina P. Nociceptive pain and anxiety in equines: Physiological and behavioral alterations. Vet World 2021 Nov;14(11):2984-2995.
    doi: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.2984-2995pubmed: 35017848google scholar: lookup
  6. Lerch N, Cirulli F, Rochais C, Lesimple C, Guilbaud E, Contalbrigo L, Borgi M, Grandgeorge M, Hausberger M. Interest in Humans: Comparisons between Riding School Lesson Equids and Assisted-Intervention Equids. Animals (Basel) 2021 Aug 28;11(9).
    doi: 10.3390/ani11092533pubmed: 34573500google scholar: lookup
  7. Brubaker L, Schroeder K, Sherwood D, Stroud D, Udell MAR. Horse Behavior towards Familiar and Unfamiliar Humans: Implications for Equine-Assisted Services. Animals (Basel) 2021 Aug 11;11(8).
    doi: 10.3390/ani11082369pubmed: 34438825google scholar: lookup
  8. Hausberger M, Lesimple C, Henry S. Detecting Welfare in a Non-Verbal Species: Social/Cultural Biases and Difficulties in Horse Welfare Assessment. Animals (Basel) 2021 Jul 30;11(8).
    doi: 10.3390/ani11082249pubmed: 34438708google scholar: lookup
  9. Contalbrigo L, Borgi M, De Santis M, Collacchi B, Tuozzi A, Toson M, Redaelli V, Odore R, Vercelli C, Stefani A, Luzi F, Valle E, Cirulli F. Equine-Assisted Interventions (EAIs) for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): Behavioural and Physiological Indices of Stress in Domestic Horses (Equus caballus) during Riding Sessions. Animals (Basel) 2021 May 27;11(6).
    doi: 10.3390/ani11061562pubmed: 34071859google scholar: lookup
  10. Panzera M, Alberghina D, Statelli A. Ethological and Physiological Parameters Assessment in Donkeys Used in Animal Assisted Interventions. Animals (Basel) 2020 Oct 13;10(10).
    doi: 10.3390/ani10101867pubmed: 33066258google scholar: lookup
  11. Pálsdóttir AM, Gudmundsson M, Grahn P. Equine-Assisted Intervention to Improve Perceived Value of Everyday Occupations and Quality of Life in People with Lifelong Neurological Disorders: A Prospective Controlled Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020 Apr 3;17(7).
    doi: 10.3390/ijerph17072431pubmed: 32260047google scholar: lookup
  12. Scopa C, Contalbrigo L, Greco A, Lanatà A, Scilingo EP, Baragli P. Emotional Transfer in Human-Horse Interaction: New Perspectives on Equine Assisted Interventions. Animals (Basel) 2019 Nov 26;9(12).
    doi: 10.3390/ani9121030pubmed: 31779120google scholar: lookup
  13. Grandgeorge M, Dubois E, Alavi Z, Bourreau Y, Hausberger M. Do Animals Perceive Human Developmental Disabilities? Guinea Pigs' Behaviour with Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Children with Typical Development. A Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2019 Aug 2;9(8).
    doi: 10.3390/ani9080522pubmed: 31382429google scholar: lookup
  14. Hediger K, Meisser A, Zinsstag J. A One Health Research Framework for Animal-Assisted Interventions. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2019 Feb 21;16(4).
    doi: 10.3390/ijerph16040640pubmed: 30795602google scholar: lookup
  15. Scopa C, Palagi E, Sighieri C, Baragli P. Physiological outcomes of calming behaviors support the resilience hypothesis in horses. Sci Rep 2018 Nov 30;8(1):17501.
    doi: 10.1038/s41598-018-35561-7pubmed: 30504840google scholar: lookup
  16. Panzera M, Statelli A. Heart Rate Variability Spectral Analysis for Monitoring Autonomic Activation in a Donkey Involved in Animal-Assisted Therapy: A Single Subject Design During Animal-Assisted Therapy Sessions. Vet Sci 2025 Nov 28;12(12).
    doi: 10.3390/vetsci12121131pubmed: 41472111google scholar: lookup
  17. Badin L, Pothier K, Agli O, Van Dendaele E, Guillou G, Ventalon G, Bailly N. Equine-Assisted Interventions and Physical Health in Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis. Sage Open Aging 2025 Jan-Dec;11:23337214241298342.
    doi: 10.1177/23337214241298342pubmed: 40611861google scholar: lookup
  18. Visser EK, Jens AL, Nieuwe Weme LE, Spaapen AA, Maarleveld KN, Enzerink KH, Tromp PN, Haven-Pross SC. Assessing Equine Behavioural Responses in Equine-Assisted Services: A Field Study Analysis. Animals (Basel) 2025 Feb 25;15(5).
    doi: 10.3390/ani15050671pubmed: 40075954google scholar: lookup
  19. Chan HW, Hsu LSJ, Shum KKM. Exploring the Human-Animal Interaction (HAI) for Children with ASD Across Countries: A Systematic Review. J Autism Dev Disord 2025 Mar 3;.
    doi: 10.1007/s10803-025-06745-8pubmed: 40029503google scholar: lookup
  20. Rochais C, Akoka E, Amiot Girard S, Grandgeorge M, Henry S. Through a Horse's Eyes: Investigating Cognitive Bias and Responses to Humans in Equine-Assisted Interventions. Animals (Basel) 2025 Feb 19;15(4).
    doi: 10.3390/ani15040607pubmed: 40003087google scholar: lookup
  21. Grandgeorge M, Lerch N, Delarue A, Hausberger M. From Human Perception of Good Practices to Horse (Equus Caballus) Welfare: Example of Equine-Assisted Activities. Animals (Basel) 2024 Sep 2;14(17).
    doi: 10.3390/ani14172548pubmed: 39272332google scholar: lookup
  22. Fournier AK, French M, Letson EA, Hanson J, Berry TD, Cronin S. The Behavioral Cost of Care: Changes in Maintenance Behavior during Equine-Assisted Interventions. Animals (Basel) 2024 Feb 6;14(4).
    doi: 10.3390/ani14040536pubmed: 38396504google scholar: lookup
  23. Rigby BR. Characterizing stress during animal interaction: a focus on the human endocrine response during equine-assisted services. Front Vet Sci 2023;10:1303354.
    doi: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1303354pubmed: 38188717google scholar: lookup
Subscribe to our newsletter
Join 99,658 horse owners like you who receive our email updates on horse health and nutrition.