Equine behavioural first aid and combatting stress in equines

Abstract

Behavioural first aid is for the prevention of harm to equids and humans. The need for behavioural first aid is either immediately apparent on examination or requested by a client because of the occurrence of undesirable and/or dangerous behaviour. Delivering effective first aid advice relies on recognising the problem, providing immediate, practical interim solutions, or referral to an appropriate behavioural practitioner. Behaviour itself is related to the equine's social and environmental situation, its emotional experience and the behavioural goal. Challenging behaviour is often related to lack of predictability or control in the equine's life, caused by sub-optimal management or during exposure to painful, frightening or confusing equitation practices that do not adhere to the principles of learning theory. The goal of behavioural first aid is to preserve the safety and welfare of the equine and their human connections until the animal is referred on. As such, being able to undertake behavioural first aid should be considered a valuable skill and an asset to modern equine veterinary practice.