Equine Behavior A Guide for Veterinarians and Equine Scientists

About this book

Equine Behavior: A Guide for Veterinarians and Equine Scientists is the quintessential reference for all who really want to know what makes horses tick.

Research in horse behavior has made great strides in recent years. Equine Behavior: A Guide for Veterinarians and Equine Scientists examines the truth behind modern trends and ancient traditions. Full of insight, it rounds up the latest findings of practitioners and researchers from all over the world, drawing on both cutting-edge research and best practice. With more than 1000 references, Equine Behavior: A Guide for Veterinarians and Equine Scientists explores equine behavior from first principles, by considering the behavior of free-ranging horses and focusing on ways in which management and training influence the responses of their domestic counterparts. Equine physicians, trainers, handlers and owners all need to be students of equine behavior, because the first sign of a problem is often a change in behavior. So, whether you own, ride, lead, groom, feed or heal horses, what you observe is vital to your understanding.

Behavioral problems in the stable and under saddle are a grave concern for equine veterinarians worldwide, because they can lead to poor performance, welfare issues, abuse and, ultimately, wastage. Traditionally, veterinarians gave priority to the physical health of their equine patients. Equine Behavior: A Guide for Veterinarians and Equine Scientists is a unique attempt to demonstrate the way science can throw light on how and why problems and unwelcome behaviors arise. It also offers ways to bring about change for the better. Beautifully illustrated with more than 500 photographs and line diagrams, Equine Behavior: A Guide for Veterinarians and Equine Scientists is an essential resource for practising veterinarians, students and enthusiasts with a specific interest in horses, ponies, and donkeys. Professional trainers and handlers, equine scientists and behavior therapists will also find its contents invaluable.

Contents

Preface
Acknowledgements

1. Introduction
2. Perception
3. Behavior and the brain
4. Learning
5. Social behavior
6. Communication
7. Locomotory behavior
8. Ingestive behavior
9. Eliminative behavior
10. Body care
11. Behavior of the stallion
12. Behavior of the mare
13. Equitation Science
14. Handling and transport
15. Miscellaneous unwelcome behaviors, their causes and resolution

Further reading
Glossary of colloquialisms, ethological and equestrian terms

Customer Reviews

Biography

Paul McGreevy is Senior Lecturer in Animal Behavior at the University of Sydney's Faculty of Veterinary Science.