The article discusses the concept of “cooperative care” in the horse world, which involves training animals using positive reinforcement to willingly participate in their own care and husbandry tasks. This method focuses on choice and trust, allowing animals to have the option to say no and reducing stress for both the animal and the handler. Cooperative care has been used in zoos since the 1980s and can be applied to horses for medical procedures, standing still, hoof care, clipping, and loading.
The training techniques used in zoos for cooperative care, such as “target” and “recall” training, have been successful in getting animals to willingly participate in various tasks. The goal is to make care safer and more efficient by ensuring that animals are calm and engaged during procedures. It is important for owners to create a stress-free and consistent routine for their horses, have a comprehensive training plan, and be prepared to adapt when things do not go as planned.
The article also addresses common challenges in cooperative care training, such as horses seeking treats or becoming frustrated during the process. It is important to set a clear foundation for how food is obtained to prevent these behaviors. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of preparing horses for emergencies and giving them opportunities to have more control in deciding whether to engage. Owners can find support and resources online, including courses through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
