‘Learning Theory’ to Improve Veterinarian Safety

“Learning theory” research could help keep vets safer when working with difficult equine patients.
Share
Favorite
Close

No account yet? Register

ADVERTISEMENT

Editor’s note: This article is part of TheHorse.com’s ongoing coverage of topics presented at the 2012 International Society of Equitation Science conference, held July 18-20 in Edinburgh, Scotland.


Equine veterinarians are all too familiar with the risks of working with their half-ton-plus patients. Frightened or injured horses, those with negative experiences, or even horses simply unfamiliar with health-care techniques and facilities, can cause serious accidents to humans, animals, and equipment.

However, if veterinarians could apply what researchers have learned about horse behavior, they could ensure better safety in both the clinic and the field, said Gemma Pearson, BVMS, MRCVS, equine veterinary intern at the Royal Dick Veterinary Equine Practice in Edinburgh, Scotland. Pearson presented on the topic during the 8th International Society for Equitation Science conference, held July 18-20, also in Edinburgh.

"It only takes a little bit more time initially, but when we use learning theory with horses we can prevent their fear responses during veterinary examinations," she said

Create a free account with TheHorse.com to view this content.

TheHorse.com is home to thousands of free articles about horse health care. In order to access some of our exclusive free content, you must be signed into TheHorse.com.

Start your free account today!

Already have an account?
and continue reading.

Share

Written by:

Passionate about horses and science from the time she was riding her first Shetland Pony in Texas, Christa Lesté-Lasserre writes about scientific research that contributes to a better understanding of all equids. After undergrad studies in science, journalism, and literature, she received a master’s degree in creative writing. Now based in France, she aims to present the most fascinating aspect of equine science: the story it creates. Follow Lesté-Lasserre on Twitter @christalestelas.

Related Articles

Stay on top of the most recent Horse Health news with

FREE weekly newsletters from TheHorse.com

Sponsored Content

Weekly Poll

sponsored by:

Where do you primarily feed your horse?
293 votes · 293 answers

Readers’ Most Popular

Sign In

Don’t have an account? Register for a FREE account here.

Need to update your account?

You need to be logged in to fill out this form

Create a free account with TheHorse.com!