There many different reasons for quirky or unwanted behaviors in horses. Pain is one of those reasons, making your veterinarian the best resource to consult when you suspect pain, lameness, or disease.
The other reasons for challenging behavior can be complex. Behaviors can manifest in nuanced ways that make it difficult for even the most experienced horse person to decipher. This is where a qualified animal behaviorist can help.
An equine behaviorist is a professional with formal education and training in animal behavior from an accredited college or university. We use behavioral science to determine why horses do some of the things they do, as well as solve handling problems, performance quirks, and to ensure an animal’s overall wellbeing.
To do this, we rely upon several branches of science, including: ethology, neurobiology, behavioral ecology, animal welfare, and equitation science. A behavioral assessment is super interesting, and often a fun way to deepen your knowledge of equine behavior. It is also a unique opportunity to better understand your own horse.
WE DO MORE THAN SOLVE PROBLEMS
Not all evaluations are for problem behaviors. Very often, a full behavioral assessment is the first step in developing a training roadmap for an individual horse, donkey, or mule. This applies to young and green horses, as well as adjustments to the training programs of veteran sport and show horses.
Whether you’re here because you need to solve a behavior problem, having a training challenge, or because you’re interested in scientifically sound, humane training practices that get the job done, you are in the right place!
WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN ASSESSMENT?
During the initial appointment, I will:
- Talk with you in detail about your horse
I record the horse’s history, discuss any problems you are having, or if not a problem behavior, what training goals you have for your horse. - Observe and analyze their behavior
I watch how your horse interacts with their environment, with humans, and other animals to identify patterns or issues. - Diagnose behavioral problems
Using evidence-based methods for identifying why a behavior happens, I analyze anxiety, training challenges, stable vices, handling problems, and sport-horse performance issues. - Develop treatment & training plans
With the help of behavior modification techniques, training protocols, and management changes, I help horses learn healthier behaviors, relax into more cooperative care and handling, and improve performance.
I do not practice veterinary medicine or diagnose medical conditions. However, I do work alongside your veterinarian to ensure that your horse’s psychological and emotional health aligns with their physical wellbeing. I often refer horses for veterinary evaluation.
AFTER THE ASSESSMENT
Some behavior assessments result in a re-training program that includes weekly sessions designed to replace the problem behaviors with positive ones. This can be done in 30, 60, 90 days, or longer if necessary.
Incentive-Based Training
Whether working with a horse to resolve problems or teaching them new skills, I use incentive-based training methods such as positive reinforcement (R+). This can be done both on the ground and for under-saddle work.
For foals, young, and green horses, my foundational training sessions are ideal for getting these youngsters started correctly and kindly. This covers skills like leading, emotional regulation, body awareness, cooperating with veterinary exams and treatments, standing for the farrier, grooming, and trailer loading, to name a few.
Working with Owners and Trainers
Training a horse, especially one with challenging behaviors, requires a team approach. In all of my sessions, owners are encouraged to observe and participate. I will gladly teach you (and your staff) the methods I use to teach, train, and manage a horse’s behavior.
Working with Veterinarians
Since pain-related behaviors can be ambiguous, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian if you suspect a medical issue to be the cause of a behavior problem. I gladly consult and work with your veterinarian as needed.
APPOINTMENTS
First Appointment – Full behavioral assessment & consultation.
This involves getting a full history on your animal, behavioral observations, management practices, and environmental evaluation. After this session, you get a Findings Report and behavioral training plan customized to the animal.
Training Sessions – 30- to 45-minute sessions working directly with a horse to develop skills, encourage behaviors, solve problem behaviors, or optimize performance.
For availability, contact Helena, or schedule below.