Why seek advice for your horse’s behaviour

People often do not understand the significance of equine behaviours. Whether it is an odd behaviour or a behaviour that causes a problem for the owner, the behaviour of a horse usually indicates something of significance to the horse.

Some behaviour problems that horses develop can become very dangerous for owners. If not managed appropriately, a horse’s welfare can be detrimentally affected and the safety of an owner compromised.

In skilled hands, behaviour can also be a very sensitive veterinary diagnostic tool at helping locate the site of pain in a horse so can help direct diagnostic test decisions.

Equine behaviour problems are not representative of a horse’s personality. They are a horse’s response to a given situation. This response may be learned or may be self-protective.

As with all species, behaviour problems in horses need to be assessed so that a diagnosis can be made. The behaviour may indicate that other veterinary tests are required, such as behavioural examination for pain behaviours or other diagnostic tests that can be referred back to your equine veterinarian. 

If the problem is likely to be a learned behaviour or a behaviour related to the horse’s emotional response to a specific situation, management takes into account the horse’s perception of the situation and whether that perception needs to change. 

Veterinary behaviour consultation early in the course of a problem is more likely to result in better welfare for your horse, a more simple management plan for you and an improved bond between your horse to you.