Using differential reinforcement to improve equine welfare: shaping appropriate truck loading and feet handling.

The research article discusses the use of differential reinforcement techniques to improve the behavior of horses during common handling procedures, such as truck loading and feet handling. These techniques were found to increase appropriate behavior, reduce instances of inappropriate behavior, and maintain the behavior in various situations.

Methodology

In the study, two experiments were conducted.

• Study 1: A multiple baseline across subjects design was used on four horses to assess the effects of shaping target-touch responses and sequential approximations of full truck loading under continuous and intermittent reinforcement schedules. The goal was to shape and maintain full loading responses in all four horses while reducing occurrences of inappropriate behaviors to zero.
• Study 2: A changing criterion design was applied for a single horse to prolong the duration of feet handling. The response of the horse was measured against a terminal duration criterion of 1 minute.

Results

Both studies yielded positive results.

• In Study 1, results showed that full loading responses were shaped and maintained in all four horses, with inappropriate behaviors reduced to zero. There was also evidence of generalization of the loading response to a novel trainer and trailer, suggesting that the horses had acquired the required behavior and could apply it in different contexts.
• In Study 2, the horse’s response met the terminal duration criterion of 1 minute, demonstrating successful implementation of the changing criterion design method. Additionally, the trained behavior showed consistent generalization and maintained itself after a week, signifying that the behavior was effectively learned and retained.

Conclusion

The findings of both studies underscore the effectiveness of using differential reinforcement to shape appropriate equine handling behavior. This indicates the potential of such techniques in enhancing equine welfare, as they help increase appropriate behavior during common handling procedures. Additionally, these outcomes support the use of horse training systems grounded in positive reinforcement.