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Journal of equine science2017; 28(3); 67-75; doi: 10.1294/jes.28.67

How to minimise the incidence of transport-related problem behaviours in horses: a review.

Abstract: This review aims to provide practical outcomes on how to minimise the incidence of transport-related problem behaviours (TRPBs) in horses. TRPBs are unwanted behaviours occurring during different phases of transport, most commonly, a reluctance to load and scrambling during travelling. TRPBs can result in injuries to horses and horse handlers, horse trailer accidents, disruption of time schedules, inability to attend competitions, and poor performance following travel. Therefore, TRPBs are recognised as both a horse-related risk to humans and a human-related risk to horses. From the literature, it is apparent that TRPBs are common throughout the entire equine industry, and a YouTube keyword search of 'horse trailer loading' produced over 67,000 results, demonstrating considerable interest in this topic and the variety of solutions suggested. Drawing upon articles published over the last 35 years, this review summarises current knowledge on TRPBs and provides recommendations on their identification, management, and prevention. It appears that a positive human-horse relationship, in-hand pre-training, systematic training for loading and travelling, appropriate horse handling, and the vehicle driving skills of the transporters are crucial to minimise the incidence of TRPBs. In-hand pre-training based on correct application of the principles of learning for horses and horse handlers, habituation to loading and travelling, and self-loading appear to minimise the risk of TRPBs and are therefore strongly recommended to safeguard horse and horse-handler health and welfare. This review indicates that further research and education with respect to transport management are essential to substantially decrease the incidence of TRPBs in horses.
Publication Date: 2017-09-20 PubMed ID: 28955158PubMed Central: PMC5608959DOI: 10.1294/jes.28.67Google Scholar: Lookup
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  • Journal Article

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 describes strategies to minimize transport-related problem behaviours (TRPBs) in horses, which can lead to various negative consequences for both horses and handlers.

Importance of Research

  • The review starts by highlighting the significance and the frequency of transport-related problem behaviours (TRPBs) in horses. These behaviours could include a reluctance to load onto a trailer and scrambling or agitation during travel.
  • The study justifies its relevance by pointing out that TRPBs can cause injuries to both horses and their handlers, disrupt schedules, prevent participation in events or competitions, and lead to poor performance post-travel. As such, these TRPBs are a considerable risk factor within the equestrian community, affecting both the animals and humans.
  • The interest and breadth of solutions available for this issue are demonstrated by a YouTube keyword search for ‘horse trailer loading’, yielding over 67,000 results.

Methodology and Key Findings

  • The authors of the review have synthesized articles published over the last 35 years to compile current knowledge on TRPBs. Their aim is to inform horse handlers about how they can identify, manage, and prevent these behaviours in horses.
  • Key factors identified by the review in minimizing TRPBs are fostering a positive relationship between horses and humans, adequate pre-training, systematic training specifically aimed at loading and travel, effective horse handling, and careful driving by the transporter. These strategies underscore the interaction between human handlers and horses, stressing the importance of skilled and mindful management.
  • Additionally, the application of correct training principles for horses and handlers, and getting horses used to the idea of loading and travelling are recommended. This approach includes teaching horses to load themselves into the trailer, which can significantly decrease the chances of TRPBs occurring.

Recommendations and Future Research

  • The authors argue that there is a strong need for additional research and education in horse transport management to achieve a substantial decrease in the incidence of TRPBs.
  • The recommendations provided are aimed at safeguarding the health and welfare of both horses and their handlers. The importance of practical training for horse handlers is emphasised, and imparts that understanding and managing TRPBs in horses involves a careful balance of effective training and considerate handling.

Cite This Article

APA
York A, Matusiewicz J, Padalino B. (2017). How to minimise the incidence of transport-related problem behaviours in horses: a review. J Equine Sci, 28(3), 67-75. https://doi.org/10.1294/jes.28.67

Publication

ISSN: 1340-3516
NlmUniqueID: 9503751
Country: Japan
Language: English
Volume: 28
Issue: 3
Pages: 67-75

Researcher Affiliations

York, Amanda
  • School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Stuart University, 2650 NSW, Australia.
Matusiewicz, Judith
  • School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Stuart University, 2650 NSW, Australia.
Padalino, Barbara
  • School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Stuart University, 2650 NSW, Australia.
  • Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari 70100, Italy.

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Citations

This article has been cited 16 times.
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