Learning objectives
- Learn the differences in perception between the horse and man
- understand horse behaviour as it is shaped by evolution and natural selection
- learn the bases of horse communication
- know the principal causes of abnormal behaviour in horses for prevention purposes
This course has been designed to create the basis for managing a human-horse relationship based on respect and cooperation that involves the use of non-violent techniques in training and handling.
Prerequisites
Basics of Physiology
Course unit content
Equine perception: senses and pain perception.
Horse behaviour as it is shaped by evolution and natural selection. Concept of homeostasis.
Communication: horse language. Visual, tactile, acoustic and chemical signals.
Neonatal and maternal behaviour. Nursing. Abnormal neonatal behaviours, abnormal maternal behaviours. Imprinting.
Social behaviour and foal learning. Herd instinct and hierarchy. Feeding in free ranging and in stud farm. Sexual behaviour of mares and stallions. Sexual abnormal behaviours. Pathological stereotypic behaviours: causes, consequences and control.
Full programme
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Bibliography
D. Mills e K. Nankervis “Comportamento equino: principi e pratica” Calderini Edagricole
Mc Greevy “Equine Behavior” Saunders
Teaching methods
Classroom lectures with Power Point presentation
Assessment methods and criteria
Oral exam
Other information
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