Reply to Semin et al. Can Humans Discriminate Horse ‘Fear’ Chemosignals from Control Chemosignals? Comment on “Sabiniewicz et al. A Preliminary Investigation of Interspecific Chemosensory Communication of Emotions: Can Humans (Homo sapiens) Recognise Fear- and Non-Fear Body Odour from Horses (Equus ferus caballus). Animals 2021, 11, 3499”.

This research article is a response to a previous study, suggesting that humans might be able to discriminate fear signals from horses by smell. It delves deeper into the topic, examining the validity and implications of the initial findings.

Background of the study

• Previous research conducted by Semin et al. proposed that humans can potentially distinguish ‘fear’ chemosignals emitted by horses through scent.
• This research article is a detailed response to that study, aiming to delve more deeply into the construct and evaluate the validity of these initial findings.

Objective of the Study

• The primary goal of this research is to explore the capability of humans to recognize fear in horses by detecting certain body odors.
• The authors plan to achieve this by critically examining the data from the earlier study by Semin et al. and potentially conducting further research if necessary.

Significance of the Study

• If proven, this type of interspecies communication can have far-reaching implications, reshaping how we think about human-animal interactions.
• It might lead to advancements in animal training and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) therapy, as horses are frequently employed in such areas.
• Additionally, it could challenge the existing understanding of human sensory perception, adding to the body of knowledge in fields like psychology and ethology.

Methodology of the Study

• The authors will systematically review the method and results of the previous study by Semin et al.
• If necessary, they may design and execute additional experimental research to further investigate the topic.
• They will draw on the existing body of knowledge in related fields like animal behaviour science, sensory perception, and interspecies communication.