Equine Calming Products: A Short Survey Into Their Use, Effect, and Knowledge Using a Small Sample of Horse Owners in the North of Scotland, UK.

The study investigates how horse owners in the North of Scotland use and perceive equine calming products (ECPs), which are often used to alter or manage unwanted horse behaviors. The research found that while a large percentage of horse owners use ECPs and would use them again, their knowledge and understanding of these products and their ingredients is limited.

Objective of Study

• The primary goal of this investigation was to gauge horse owners’ views and usage of ECPs. The researchers wanted to know how many horse owners used these products, if they found them effective, what they used them for, and if they could identify the active calming ingredient.

Methodology

• To gather this information, the researchers distributed a survey to riding club members, livery yards, and riding instructors in the North of Scotland.
• Out of all the distributed surveys, they received a 63% response rate, with 58 correctly filled out questionnaires.

Key Findings

• The data showed that 69% of respondents had used an ECP and 82% would use it again, with 45% reporting regular use.
• When asked about the ingredients of ECPs, 59% believed magnesium was responsible for the calming effect. 9% attributed this effect to herbs, valerian or tryptophan, while 32% did not know what ingredient had a calming effect.
• Among those who had used an ECP, 40% observed a positive effect, 30% expressed uncertainty about the effects, 25% saw no difference and 5% reported a negative impact on the horse’s behavior.

Study’s Conclusion

• The results demonstrated that many horse owners are willing to use ECPs even when they have limited knowledge of the product’s ingredients and lack scientific evidence to support its efficacy.
• This suggests a need for further research into these products and the dissemination of accurate information to horse owners.