Risk Factors for Transport-Related Problem Behaviors in Horses: A New Zealand Survey.
Authors: Padalino Barbara, Rogers Chris W, Guiver Danielle, Bridges Janis P, Riley Christopher B
Journal: Animals : an open access journal from MDPI
Summary
# Transport-Related Problem Behaviours in Horses: What Increases Risk? One in five New Zealand horse owners surveyed had experienced transport-related problem behaviours (TRPBs) in the preceding two years, with the majority occurring during travel itself (53%) rather than loading phases. Through logistic regression analysis of 1124 responses, researchers identified several modifiable risk factors: the use of negative reinforcement and positive punishment during training, employing whips or food as loading incentives, and offering food whilst travelling in straight-load trailers all significantly increased the likelihood of problem behaviours. Most concerning was the finding that these associations suggest aversive training methods may predispose horses to transport difficulties—a pattern with clear implications for how we prepare and handle horses before and during journeys. Although the cross-sectional design cannot prove causation, the consistency of these findings points towards practical interventions: prioritising reward-based training protocols, reconsidering loading techniques that rely on pressure or food manipulation, and potentially selecting trailer designs that minimise stress during travel. For professionals involved in transport management, these results warrant reflection on current practice and suggest that education around evidence-based training methods and vehicle selection could meaningfully reduce transport-related injuries and welfare compromise.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Reconsider training methods for transport; avoid negative reinforcement and positive punishment to reduce problem behaviors and injury risk
- •Reassess loading practices—avoid using whips or food as loading tools, and evaluate trailer type selection with consideration for horse welfare
- •Prioritize education for handlers on evidence-based, aversive-free training approaches specific to transport to mitigate TRPB incidence and enhance safety
Key Findings
- •22.2% of respondents reported at least one horse with TRPBs during the previous two years
- •53.0% of TRPBs occurred while travelling, 31.3% during loading, 8.4% during pre-loading, and 7.3% during unloading
- •Negative reinforcement, positive punishment training methods, use of whip or food for loading, and straight load trailers with food provision were associated with higher likelihood of TRPBs
- •Cross-sectional design prevents causal inference; findings require validation through experimental studies