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Research in veterinary science2014; 96(2); 406-414; doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2013.12.014

The interrelations of good welfare indicators assessed in working horses and their relationships with the type of work.

Abstract: This paper presents a different approach to the welfare of working horses through the indicators of good welfare, their interrelations and their relationships with the type of work performed by the horses. 697 working horses were assessed by using observation, behavioural tests, clinical exams and questionnaires. The correlated results highlight the complex and multiple interrelations between the good welfare indicators, showing once again that animal welfare is under the influence of all its three dimensions (physical and emotional wellbeing and naturalness). In working horses, the heavier the work they perform is, the more important it is for horse owners/breeders/farmers to fulfil their inherent needs so as to help them cope with the multiple specific risks imposed by their work.
Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Publication Date: 2014-01-04 PubMed ID: 24461957DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2013.12.014Google Scholar: Lookup
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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.

This study delves into the welfare indicators of working horses and evaluates how they are affected by the type of work these horses perform. The analysis indicates a complex relationship between these welfare indicators, highlighting the critical importance of addressing the inherent needs of working horses, particularly those performing heavier tasks.

Overview of the Study

  • The primary aim of this research paper is to explore the welfare of working horses, particularly assessing ‘good welfare’ indicators, the relationships among these indicators, and how these are influenced by the type of work the horses carry out.
  • The study argues that a comprehensive understanding of these relationships can aid in the optimization of horse welfare, especially for those involved in heavy work.
  • The research involves a diverse set of data collection methodologies like direct observation, behavioral tests, clinical exams, and questionnaires, to paint a holistic picture of the subject matter.

Key Findings

  • The findings suggest a substantial level of interplay between the various indicators of good welfare, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of animal welfare.
  • The research abstract highlights that animal welfare is influenced by three major dimensions: physical well-being, emotional well-being, and naturalness.
  • Among these dimensions, the significance and impacts of each indicator can vary largely depending on the type and intensity of work the horse undertakes.
  • The study maintains that for horses involved in heavier work, it’s essential for those responsible for their care, such as owners, breeders and farmers, to provide for these animals’ inherent needs. This can boost their capacity to cope with the specific risks and challenges imposed by their jobs.

Implications and Potential Applications

  • The paper’s findings underline the importance of a comprehensive approach to animal welfare in the context of working horses. It stresses that their care must cater to all the three dimensions of their welfare, not just their physical health.
  • The study also provides valuable insights for policy makers and stakeholders in animal husbandry to develop more nuanced and balanced strategies and guidelines for working horses’ welfare.
  • Beyond policy-making, these findings can also aid horse breeders, farmers and owners to better understand the needs of their working horses and adopt practices that can enhance their overall well-being and work capacity.

Cite This Article

APA
Popescu S, Diugan EA, Spinu M. (2014). The interrelations of good welfare indicators assessed in working horses and their relationships with the type of work. Res Vet Sci, 96(2), 406-414. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rvsc.2013.12.014

Publication

Research in veterinary science
ISSN: 1532-2661
NlmUniqueID: 0401300
Country: England
Language: English
Volume: 96
Issue: 2
Pages: 406-414
PII: S0034-5288(13)00396-2

Researcher Affiliations

Popescu, S
  • Department of Animal Hygiene and Welfare, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Electronic address: silvana.popescu@usamvcluj.ro.
Diugan, E A
  • Department of Animal Hygiene and Welfare, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Department of Infectious Diseases and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
Spinu, M
  • Department of Infectious Diseases and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Manastur St., 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

MeSH Terms

  • Animal Husbandry / methods
  • Animal Welfare
  • Animals
  • Behavior, Animal / physiology
  • Female
  • Horses / physiology
  • Male
  • Statistics, Nonparametric
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Citations

This article has been cited 20 times.
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