Records |
Author |
Mills, D.S. |
Title |
Applying learning theory to the management of the horse: the difference between getting it right and getting it wrong |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
1998 |
Publication |
Equine veterinary journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
Volume |
|
Issue |
27 |
Pages |
44-48 |
Keywords |
Animals; *Behavior, Animal; Horses/*psychology; *Learning; Reinforcement (Psychology) |
Abstract |
Horses constantly modify their behaviour as a result of experience. This involves the creation of an association between events or stimuli. The influence of people on the modification and generation of certain behaviour patterns extends beyond the intentional training of the horse. The impact of any action depends on how it is perceived by the horse, rather than the motive of the handler. Negative and positive reinforcement increase the probability of specific behaviours recurring i.e. strengthen the association between events, whereas punishment reduces the probable recurrence of a behaviour without providing specific information about the desired alternative. In this paper the term 'punishers' is used to refer to the physical aids, such as a whip or crop, which may be used to bring about the process of punishment. However, if their application ceases when a specific behaviour occurs they may negatively reinforce that action. Intended 'punishers' may also be rewarding (e.g. for attention seeking behaviour). Therefore, contingency factors (which define the relationship between stimuli, such as the level of reinforcement), contiguity factors (which describe the proximity of events in space or time) and choice of reinforcing stimuli are critical in determining the rate of learning. The many problems associated with the application of punishment in practice lead to confusion by both horse and handler and, possibly, abuse of the former. Most behaviour problems relate to handling and management of the horse and can be avoided or treated with a proper analysis of the factors influencing the behaviour. |
Address |
De Montfort University Lincoln, School of Agriculture and Horticulture, Caythorpe, Lincs., UK |
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PMID:10485004 |
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Call Number |
refbase @ user @ |
Serial |
845 |
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Author |
Mills, D.S. |
Title |
Comments about the importance of behaviour to equine clinicians |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
2007 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
Volume |
39 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
95 |
Keywords |
Animals; *Behavior, Animal/physiology; *Clinical Competence; Horses/*physiology; Humans; Veterinarians/*psychology; Veterinary Medicine/*standards |
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0425-1644 |
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PMID:17228604 |
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Serial |
1839 |
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Author |
Mills, D.S. |
Title |
Personality and individual differences in the horse, their significance, use and measurement |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
1998 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
Volume |
|
Issue |
27 |
Pages |
10-13 |
Keywords |
Animals; *Behavior, Animal; Horses/*psychology; Personality |
Abstract |
The biological diversity of a species gives rise to individual differences in behavioural tendency. Traditionally, this variation has been considered to be of little scientific importance or value, but the description and quantification of the fundamental basis of this variability is relevant to many aspects of equine science. The reliable identification of these features may allow the development of more accurate diagnostic and prognostic indicators for a range of clinical diseases. Biologically based traits also provide a more rational basis for selective management and breeding programmes in which specific behavioural tendencies are sought. Individual differences in behaviour also reflect the range of subjective feelings experienced by animals and therefore need to be understood by those concerned with animal welfare. Psychometric techniques concerned with the assessment of personality may provide a suitable basis for scientific study in this field. Potentially methodologies include: behavioural tests, objective behaviour measures or the quantification of reports from those familiar with the subjects. The assessment of the validity and reliability of the variables measured in these tests is an integral part of their development. Interobserver correlation in an experiment based on the subjective rating of 20 horses with respect to 14 familiar terms used to describe horse personality was generally low. This suggests that, with the exception of the terms 'flighty' and 'sharp', the empirical terminology commonly used to describe horse personality is unreliable. |
Address |
De Montfort University Lincoln, School of Agriculture and Horticulture, Caythorpe, Lincs, UK |
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PMID:10484996 |
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no |
Call Number |
refbase @ user @ |
Serial |
1932 |
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Author |
Meershoek, L.S.; Schamhardt, H.C.; Roepstorff, L.; Johnston, C. |
Title |
Forelimb tendon loading during jump landings and the influence of fence height |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
2001 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
Volume |
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Issue |
33 |
Pages |
6-10 |
Keywords |
Animals; Biomechanics; Forelimb/injuries/physiology; Horses/injuries/*physiology; Lameness, Animal/etiology; Ligaments, Articular/*physiology; Locomotion/*physiology; Physical Conditioning, Animal; Tendon Injuries/complications/physiopathology/veterinary; Tendons/*physiology; Weight-Bearing/physiology |
Abstract |
Lameness in athletic horses is often caused by forelimb tendon injuries, especially in the interosseus tendon (TI) and superficial digital flexor tendon (SDF), but also in the accessory ligament (AL) of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDF). In an attempt to explain the aetiology of these injuries, the present study investigated the loading of the tendons during landing after a jump. In jumping horses, the highest forces can be expected in the trailing limb during landing. Therefore, landing kinematics and ground reaction forces of the trailing forelimb were measured from 6 horses jumping single fences with low to medium heights of 0.80, 1.00 and 1.20 m. The tendon forces were calculated using inverse dynamics and an in vitro model of the lower forelimb. Calculated peak forces in the TI, SDF and DDF + AL during landing were 15.8, 13.9 and 11.7 kN respectively. The relative loading of the tendons (landing forces compared with failure forces determined in a separate study) increased from DDF to TI to SDF and was very high in SDF. This explains the low injury incidence of the DDF and the high injury incidence of the SDF. Fence height substantially influenced SDF forces, whereas it hardly influenced TI forces and did not influence AL strain. Reduction of fence height might therefore limit the risks for SDF injuries, but not for TI and AL injuries. |
Address |
Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology, Institute for Fundamental and Clinical Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands |
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PMID:11721571 |
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no |
Call Number |
Equine Behaviour @ team @ |
Serial |
3786 |
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Author |
Meershoek, L.S.; Roepstorff, L.; Schamhardt, H.C.; Johnston, C.; Bobbert, M.F. |
Title |
Joint moments in the distal forelimbs of jumping horses during landing |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
2001 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
Volume |
33 |
Issue |
4 |
Pages |
410-415 |
Keywords |
Animals; Biomechanics; Forelimb/physiology; Gait/*physiology; Horses/*physiology; Joints/*physiology; Physical Conditioning, Animal; Tendons/*physiology; Weight-Bearing |
Abstract |
Tendon injuries are an important problem in athletic horses and are probably caused by excessive loading of the tendons during demanding activities. As a first step towards understanding these injuries, the tendon loading was quantified during jump landings. Kinematics and ground reaction forces were collected from the leading and trailing forelimbs of 6 experienced jumping horses. Joint moments were calculated using inverse dynamic analysis. It was found that the variation of movement and loading patterns was small, both within and between horses. The peak flexor joint moments in the coffin and fetlock joints were larger in the trailing limb (-0.62 and -2.44 Nm/kg bwt, respectively) than in the leading limb (-0.44 and -1.93 Nm/kg bwt, respectively) and exceeded literature values for trot by 82 and 45%. Additionally, there was an extensor coffin joint moment in the first half of the stance phase of the leading limb (peak value 0.26+/-0.18 Nm/kg bwt). From these results, it was concluded that the loading of the flexor tendons during landing was higher in the trailing than in the leading limb and that there was an unexpected loading of the extensor tendon in the leading limb. |
Address |
Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands |
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0425-1644 |
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Notes |
PMID:11469776 |
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no |
Call Number |
Equine Behaviour @ team @ |
Serial |
3787 |
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Author |
McGreevy, P.D.; Richardson, J.D.; Nicol, C.J.; Lane, J.G. |
Title |
Radiographic and endoscopic study of horses performing an oral based stereotypy |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
1995 |
Publication |
Equine veterinary journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
Volume |
27 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
92-95 |
Keywords |
Animals; Endoscopy/*veterinary; Esophagus/physiopathology/radiography; Female; Fluoroscopy/veterinary; Horse Diseases/physiopathology/*psychology/radiography; Horses; Male; Pharynx/physiopathology/radiography; *Stereotyped Behavior; Video Recording |
Abstract |
There is confusion in the veterinary literature concerning the definition of oral based stereotypies in the horse. This study reports the use of fluoroscopy and endoscopy during cribbiting/wind-sucking in afflicted horses. This permitted observations of movements of the pharyngeal and oesophageal tissues and of the air column within during the stereotypic behaviour. The findings reported show that the sequence of events during crib-biting/wind-sucking is not related to deglutition and that air is not swallowed to the stomach. Transient dilation of the upper oesophagus was recorded and the characteristic noise of wind-sucking coincided with the in-rush of air through the cricopharynx. The oesophageal distension was relieved when the air returned to the pharynx although small quantities passed caudally. It is proposed that the role of contraction of the strap muscles of the neck is to create a pressure gradient in the soft tissues surrounding the oesophagus which provokes movement of air from the pharynx into the oesophagus. The findings suggest that the definitions currently used in the sale of horses are in need of revision. |
Address |
Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, UK |
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0425-1644 |
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Notes |
PMID:7607156 |
Approved |
no |
Call Number |
refbase @ user @ |
Serial |
90 |
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Author |
McGreevy, P.D.; Nicol, C.J. |
Title |
Prevention of crib-biting: a review |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
1998 |
Publication |
Equine veterinary journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
Volume |
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Issue |
27 |
Pages |
35-38 |
Keywords |
Animals; *Behavior, Animal; Horse Diseases/*prevention & control/psychology; Horses; *Stereotyped Behavior |
Abstract |
Crib-biting is a common oral stereotype. Because of perceived deleterious effects on the health and appearance of subjects the prevention of crib-biting is regularly attempted. The resourcefulness of horses in satisfying their motivation to perform this behaviour often frustrates owners' efforts at prevention. This paper reviews the efficacy and observable consequences of attempting to prevent crib-biting by a variety of methods. These include attempts to prevent the grasping of objects, to interfere with air-engulfing and to introduce punishment for grasping and neck-flexion. Other approaches include the use of surgery, acupuncture, pharmaceuticals, operant feeding and environmental enrichment. A remedy that is effective for every crib-biter remains elusive. We conclude that, rather than concentrating on remedial prevention, further research should be directed at establishing why horses crib-bite and how the emergence of crib-biting can be avoided. |
Address |
Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, UK |
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PMID:10485002 |
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no |
Call Number |
refbase @ user @ |
Serial |
87 |
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Author |
McGreevy, P.D.; Nicol, C.J. |
Title |
The effect of short-term prevention on the subsequent rate of crib-biting in thoroughbred horses |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
1998 |
Publication |
Equine veterinary journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
Volume |
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Issue |
27 |
Pages |
30-34 |
Keywords |
Analysis of Variance; Animals; *Behavior, Animal; Horse Diseases/*prevention & control/psychology; Horses; Male; Recurrence; *Stereotyped Behavior; Videotape Recording |
Abstract |
The results of an experimental study of the motivational consequences of short-term prevention of crib-biting are reported here. Eight test horses wore a cribbing collar for 24 h. This was effective in preventing crib-biting in 6 subjects. Using analysis of co-variance that accounted for baseline differences in crib-biting rate, test horses showed significantly more crib-biting than control horses on the first day after prevention (P < 0.05). There was also a highly significant increase in the crib-biting rate of test horses on the first day after prevention in comparison with their baseline rate (P < 0.01). This defines the increase as a post inhibitory rebound. An increase in the novelty of the cribbing bar and an increase in feeding motivation during the period of prevention are rejected as explanations of the rebound in this study. Instead, it is suggested that the rebound reflected a rise in internal motivation to crib-bite during the period of prevention. Behaviours that exhibit this pattern of motivation are generally considered functional; and it has been argued that their prevention may compromise welfare. |
Address |
Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, UK |
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PMID:10485001 |
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no |
Call Number |
refbase @ user @ |
Serial |
88 |
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Author |
McGreevy, P.D.; Cripps, P.J.; French, N.P.; Green, L.E.; Nicol, C.J. |
Title |
Management factors associated with stereotypic and redirected behaviour in the thoroughbred horse |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
1995 |
Publication |
Equine veterinary journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
Volume |
27 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
86-91 |
Keywords |
Animal Husbandry/*methods; Animals; Horse Diseases/psychology/*therapy; Horses; Risk Factors; *Stereotyped Behavior; Time Factors |
Abstract |
A greater knowledge of the effect of management factors is required to investigate the ontogeny of abnormal behaviour in the stabled horse. A postal survey of racehorse (flat) trainers yielded information about 22 yard and management factors. The relationship of the factors to the prevalence of abnormal behaviour was analysed by logistic regression. Management factors related to the time spent in the stable showed the strongest associations with stereotypic behaviour. The risk of horses performing abnormal behaviour increased: 1) as the amount of forage fell below 6.8 kg/day, 2) when bedding types other than straw were used, 3) when the total number of horses on the yard was fewer than 75, 4) in association with box designs that minimised contact between neighbouring horses, 5) when hay, rather than other types of forage, was used. |
Address |
Department of Animal Health and Husbandry, School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, UK |
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0425-1644 |
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PMID:7607155 |
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refbase @ user @ |
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91 |
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Author |
Marlin, D.J.; Schroter, R.C.; White, S.L.; Maykuth, P.; Matthesen, G.; Mills, P.C.; Waran, N.; Harris, P. |
Title |
Recovery from transport and acclimatisation of competition horses in a hot humid environment |
Type |
Journal Article |
Year |
2001 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
Volume |
33 |
Issue |
4 |
Pages |
371-379 |
Keywords |
Acclimatization/*physiology; Animals; Body Temperature; Body Weight; Breeding; Feeding Behavior; Female; Heart Rate; Heat; Heat Stroke/prevention & control/veterinary; Horse Diseases/prevention & control; Horses/*physiology; Humidity; Male; Respiration; Sports; *Transportation; Tropical Climate |
Abstract |
The aims of the present field-based study were to investigate changes in fit horses undergoing acclimatisation to a hot humid environment and to provide data on which to base recommendations for safe transport and acclimatisation. Six horses (age 7-12 years) were flown from Europe to Atlanta and underwent a 16 day period of acclimatisation. Exercise conditions during acclimatisation (wet bulb globe temperature index 27.6+/-0.0 [mean +/- s.e.]) were more thermally stressful compared with the European climate from which the horses had come (22.0+/-1.8, P<0.001). Following the flight, weight loss was 4.1+/-0.8% bodyweight and took around 7 days to recover. Water intake during the day was significantly increased (P<0.05) compared with night during acclimatisation. Daily mean exercise duration was 72+/-12 min and the majority of work was performed with a heart rate below 120 beats/min. Respiratory rate (fR) was increased (P<0.05) throughout acclimatisation compared with in Europe, but resting morning (AM) and evening (PM) rectal temperature (TREC), heart rate (fC) and plasma volume were unchanged. White blood cell (WBC) count was significantly increased at AM compared with in Europe on Days 4 and 10 of acclimatisation (P<0.01), but was not different by Day 16. In conclusion, horses exposed to hot humid environmental conditions without prior acclimatisation are able to accommodate these stresses and, with appropriate management, remain fit and clinically healthy, without significant risk of heat illness or heat-related disorders, provided they are allowed sufficient time to recover from transport, acclimatisation is undertaken gradually and they are monitored appropriately. |
Address |
Centre for Equine Studies, Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, Suffolk, UK |
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0425-1644 |
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PMID:11469770 |
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Call Number |
refbase @ user @ |
Serial |
1917 |
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