bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Personality and individual differences in the horse, their significance, use and measurement
Authors: MILLS D. S. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryThe 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.
A cross‐sectional study on compulsive behaviour (stable vices) in horses
Authors: LUESCHER U. A. , McKEOWN D. B. , DEAN HELENA 
Published: June 2010

SummaryA researcher‐administered survey study was performed involving 769 horses from 32 Thoroughbred, Standardbred, and pleasure horse stables in southwestern Ontario. Data were gathered on individuals (breed, age, and sex) and at the stable level (housing, management). The effects of these factors on cribbing, stall‐walking, weaving, stall‐kicking, tongue playing, and pawing were assessed by unconditional analysis (Chi‐square,ttest) and conditionally using stepwise logistic regression. Individual level factors had significant effects on most compulsive behaviours. Some stable level factors, in most cases, those related to type and amount of exercise, had a significant effect on the prevalence of compulsive behaviours when tested unconditionally, but were not significant if entered into a logistic regression model after stable type. Stall‐kicking was more common in horses which had physical contact with other horses, and this factor remained significant in the logistic regression analysis. Stable level factors should be regarded as modulating factors rather than as causes and in some cases, may reflect an attempt to treat the problem. Increased turn‐out of affected horses likely reflects an ineffective attempt to treat problems, while reduced forced exercise (riding, lungeing) of affected horses is more likely to represent a cause.
Physiological correlates associated with cribbing behaviour in horses: changes in thermal threshold, heart rate, plasma β‐endorphin and serotonin
Authors: LEBELT D. , ZANELLA A. J. , UNSHELM J. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryThe aim of the present study was to obtain information on the possible mechanisms underlying cribbing behaviour in horses. To investigate the horse's responsiveness to an external stimulus, a device for telemetric measurement of thermal threshold, using the forelimb withdrawal reflex, was developed and validated. Measurements of thermal threshold took place in cribbing horses (n = 11) before and during cribbing periods. Heart rate was monitored continuously in the same horses. Blood samples were collected before and during cribbing periods as well and in age‐ and sex‐matched control horses (n = 11). β‐endorphin and Cortisol were determined in plasma using radioimmunoassay techniques, serotonin was analysed by high performance liquid chromatography.Compared with basal values, thermal threshold was significantly (P = 0.003) lower during cribbing periods. The mean difference was 4.9°C. Heart rate decreased significantly (P = 0.026) and showed a mean reduction of 2.4 beats/min during cribbing. Given the fact that arousal usually is associated with an increase in nociceptive threshold and in heart rate, the decrease in both during cribbing provide evidence that cribbing may reduce stress.Cribbers showed 3 times higher basal β‐endorphin levels than controls (mean 49.5 vs. 16.2 pmol/l, P = 0.006) and there was a trend for lower basal serotonin levels (mean 201.5 vs. 414.3 nmol/l, P = 0.07). These data indicate differences in cribber's endogenous opioid and serotonergic systems.
The effect of short term prevention on the subsequent rate of crib‐biting in Thoroughbred horses
Authors: McGREEVY P. D. , NICOL CHRISTINE J. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryThe 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.
Prevention of crib‐biting: a review
Authors: McGREEVY P. D. , NICOL CHRISTINE J. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryCrib‐biting is a common oral stereotypy. 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.
Applying learning theory to the management of the horse: the difference between getting it right and getting it wrong
Authors: MILLS D. S. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryHorses 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.
Investigating the origins of horse domestication
Authors: LEVINE M. A. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryBefore the development of firearms, the horse was crucial to warfare and, before the invention of the steam engine, it was the fastest and most reliable form of land transport. It is crucial to the life of nomadic pastoralists on the Eurasian steppe and played a major role in the evolution of human society during the Bronze Age and Iron Age. Understanding the human past requires knowledge of the origins and development of horse husbandry. The problem of being able to identify the early stages of horse domestication is one that many researchers have grappled with for the most part unsuccessfully. Until recently the most important criteria used had been that of increased relative abundance. That is, around 3500 BC, in some parts of Eurasia, there was an apparent increase in the proportions of horse bones and teeth found in archaeological deposits by comparison with preceding periods. However, other evidence suggests that the observed increase during the Copper Age could be explained as well, or even better, by increased hunting rather than by domestication.
The importance of ethology in understanding the behaviour of the horse
Authors: GOODWIN D. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryDomestication has provided the horse with food, shelter, veterinary care and protection, allowing individuals an increased chance of survival. However, the restriction of movement, limited breeding opportunities and a requirement to expend energy, for the benefit of another species, conflict with the evolutionary processes which shaped the behaviour of its predecessors. The behaviour of the horse is defined by its niche as a social prey species but many of the traits which ensured the survival of its ancestors are difficult to accommodate in the domestic environment. There has been a long association between horses and man and many features of equine behaviour suggest a predisposition to interspecific cooperation. However, the importance of dominance in human understanding of social systems has tended to overemphasise its importance in the human‐horse relationship. The evolving horse‐human relationship from predation to companionship, has resulted in serial conflicts of interest for equine and human participants. Only by understanding the nature and origin of these conflicts can ethologists encourage equine management practices which minimise deleterious effects on the behaviour of the horse.
Understanding equine stereotypies
Authors: NICOL C. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryIt is frequently asserted that equine stereotypies, such as crib‐biting, wind‐sucking and weaving, are caused by boredom. However, this explanation is too general to be of practical use in discerning the causes of each stereotypy or in devising management practices to prevent their occurrence. The majority of equine stereotypies start within one month of weaning when both the nutritional and social environment of the foal are substantially altered. Epidemiological research has revealed that the provision of low quantities of forage and minimal opportunities for social contact are associated with a higher reported prevalence of stereotypic behaviour. Experimental data also suggest that oral stereotypies develop in response to a low forage diet but this may be partially adapative. Oral stereotypies may increase salivary flow therefore reducing the acidity of gastric tract and speeding the transit of ingested feed. Stereotypic horses may be less reactive to short‐term aversive stimulation. Neither direct nor circumstantial evidence confirms anecdotal reports that horses copy stereotypies from each other. Surgical and pharmacological methods of prevention should not be attempted unless the underlying causes are removed.
Horses and the rural economy in the United Kingdom
Authors: SUGGETT R. H. GRAHAM 
Published: June 2010

SummaryThe horse industry is large and varied, but until comparatively recently its contribution to the economy of the UK has been virtually ignored and this, together with the disparate nature and small size of the individual businesses involved, has resulted in a general lack of universally available data. What is undoubtedly true, however, is that the horse touches upon the professional and recreational aspects of many peoples' lives and that, without the horse, not only would a significant proportion of the rural working population be unemployed but many ancillary industries would have considerably less work available. This paper reinforces the concept of the horse being at the centre of a large, though disparate and dispersed industry and, what is more, that it is an industry of essential importance both to the welfare of the countryside and to the economic viability of the UK. It also attempts to quantify the size of the horse industry based upon limited information. The paper concludes that 125,000 people (expressed in full time equivalents) are employed directly, there are 600,000 horses and an economic contribution in excess of £m1000.
The human‐horse relationship: how much do we know?
Authors: ROBINSON I. H. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryHuman relationships or interactions with horses have varied throughout history depending on human needs, but it is horses' ability to carry a human individual that has had perhaps the greatest impact on their relationship with man. Despite our long association with the horse, there have been few studies on human‐horse relationships. There is little historical evidence on individual relationships with horses but indications of strong human‐horse relationships have been noted in mounted societies, such as North American Plains Indians. Riding a horse has traditionally been associated with power, and was reserved for the ruling elite in many areas. Demographic data suggest that human relationships with horses may have changed in recent times. Although the lack of land and the relatively high cost of horse care may reduce the possibility of ownership for many people, the availability of riding establishments and increases in leisure time mean that riding is no longer restricted to the upper classes.There is a wide range in type and intensity of potential interactions with horses, indicating that human‐horse relationships are likely to vary considerably. Some people appear to sacrifice a great deal in order to own a horse. However, the motivation behind these activities and the process by which an individual assesses personal costs of ownership versus their perceived benefits remains to be studied. Future research should focus on characterising the human‐horse relationship, and the degree of individual and cultural variation. A greater understanding of horse owner perceptions of ‘costs’ versus ‘benefits’ may also increase our understanding of the relationship and the economic importance of horses in society.
Review of equine feeding and stable management practices in the UK concentrating on the last decade of the 20th Century
Authors: HARRIS P. A. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryEquine feeding and stable management practices for horses kept in the UK vary greatly and it is probable that almost any permutation of regimen could be found somewhere. Unfortunately, there is uncertainty about the number of horses in the UK and very limited data are available on the ways horses are being fed and managed. This paper reviews some of the information that is available and provides an outline of some of the factors influencing the practices used. To a certain extent, the way UK horses are fed and managed primarily reflects the purpose for which they are kept (e.g. racing Thoroughbred vs. native breeding pony) as well as their location (urban vs. rural); the time of year; their breed/age as well as the owner's financial situation. In very general terms, the various ways that horses can be kept and managed fall between 2 extremes: the professional riders/owners/ trainers who tend to keep horses and ponies either in large barns/stable yards managed by themselves or a head stable person and the more amateur competitor/leisure riders who tend to keep their horses at a livery yard or at their own or a friend's home. Many of these animals are kept under either part or full do‐it‐yourself (DIY) conditions. Common feeding practices range from feeding traditional home cereal‐based mixes to feeding coarse mixes/pelleted compound manufactured feeds. Very few people, however, feed just a simple single grain or compound feed plus roughage diet. Many add other separate feeding stuffs and supplements including soaked sugar beet or straight molasses, primarily as palatability enhancers. Other common additions include cod liver oil, various types of vegetable oil, carrots, one or more vitamin/mineral mixes, herbal mixes and certain agents with ergogenic/ performance‐enhancing claims. Especially for horses used for competition purposes, provision of supplementary salt is common either by means of a salt block or lick or as an addition to the feed. The soaking of hay, for a variable time period, is another common practice. Although the type and amount of feed fed fundamentally varies according to the work load of the horse there tends to be marked seasonal variations in feeding practices due to the weather and the availability of pasture.
Normal equine gastroduodenal secretion and motility
Authors: MERRITT A. M. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryThis article represents an attempt to provide an overview of the current knowledge of equine gastroduodenal secretory and motor activity, with respect to howe these functions are controlled and interact First, the equine gastric mucosal anatomy is discussed in comparison with other monogastric species, with some attention directed at the large nonglandular portion in relation to its function, or lack thereof. Next, control of gastric acid secretion, as assessed by the collection of gastric contents from a cannula or continuous measurement of their changes in pH, is reviewed, pointing out that there appears to be a relatively unobstructed movement of contents between stomach and duodenum in the horse, which can have a strong influence on pH of the gastric contents in particular. Then, methods of evaluating gastroduodenal motility, including recording of myoelectrical activity and changes in intraluminal pressure, and transit of radiolabelled contents from stomach into duodenum, are discussed. Finally, the apparent influence of the gastroduodenal migrating motility complex (MMC) on the composition of fasting gastric contents is introduced to underscore the observation that reflux of duodenal contents into the stomach is probably a common occurrence in the horse, particularly during periods of MMC‐related cessation of antral motility.
Cross‐sectional study of gastric ulcers of the squamous mucosa in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: VATISTAS N. J. , SNYDER J. R. , CARLSON G. , JOHNSON B. , ARTHU R. M. , THURMOND M. , ZHOU H. , LLOYD K. L K. 
Published: June 2010

†California Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory Service, California 95616, California 91024, USA.SummaryAlthough gastric ulcers have been identified relatively frequently in racing Thoroughbreds, there have been no large scale studies to determine their effect on health and performance. Two hundred and two Thoroughbred horses in active race training were selected by the attending veterinarians for gastro‐endoscopic examination. Images of the stomach mucosa were stored in a digitised format for subsequent evaluation. The number of ulcers and a score of severity were determined. Gastric ulceration of the squamous mucosa was identified in 82% of horses. Seventy‐three (39%) horses displayed clinical signs consistent with gastric ulceration. Increasing Furr and Murray Score was associated with poor hair coat (P = 0.03), colic (P = 0.03), and increasing serum creatinine concentration (P = 0.029). There were no associations between haematology and serum biochemistry values (other than serum alkaline phosphatase concentration and serum creatinine concentration) and gastric ulceration. Our study confirmed the relatively high incidence of gastric ulceration in Thoroughbred horses involved in active race training. Gastric ulceration is a potential, but rare, cause of overt colic, but may produce more subtle detrimental effects on a horse's condition. It is concluded that the diagnosis of gastric ulceration should be based on an endoscopic examination of the stomach, although future studies are required to elucidate further the aetiology and clinical significance of gastric ulceration.
Effects of intramuscular omeprazole on gastric acid secretion in horses over a twenty‐four hour period
Authors: SANDIN A. , ANDREWS F. M. , NADEAU J. A. , DOHERTY T. J. , NILSSON G. 
Published: June 2010

SummaryThe effect of intramuscular (i.m.) omeprazole (0.25 or 1.0 mg/kg bwt; LD and HD), respectively, on volume, total acid output (TAO) and pH of the gastric juice was studied during 24 h in 5 horses with a chronically implanted gastric cannula. Whether secretion in controls was basal or stimulated with pentagastrin (8 μg/kg bwt/h), volume (NS) and TAO (P<0.01, NS) gradually decreased and pH increased (P<0.05, NS).Omeprazole significantly reduced the average basal TAO by 49 ± 6% (LD) and 88 ± 3% (HD) and the stimulated TAO by 64 ± 2% and 97 ± 1%. Basal pH in controls was 2.1–4.2 and after omeprazole treatment, pH 2.8–4.1 (LD) and 2.4–6.6 (HD). After stimulation, the corresponding pH values were 2.6–3.3, 3.9–4.9 and 5.4–7.2. The biological availability of omeprazole was 70–80%. Due to the simplicity of the administration technique and the higher biological availability, intramuscular administration may offer a practical and less expensive way of treating gastric ulcers in horses.