Anyone who has worked with challenging horses knows the risks of injury are high. New ways to improve and make safer the human/horse interaction are always welcome.

Gemma Pearson, MVMS, CERT AVP, MRCVS, spoke on March 5 at the 2016 Horse Owner’s Seminar Series hosted by the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine. Her presentation on behavior modification provided the Veterinary Medical Center’s clients and the public an opportunity to hear about her research firsthand.

Pearson’s research focuses on how horses learn, and has led her to develop techniques that make restraint, examination, and treatment of horses easier and safer. Pearson originally presented her findings at the 2012 International Society for Equitation Science conference in Edinburgh. Her work is based on what she calls “learning theory,” which refers to the body of research that has built a deeper understanding of how horses learn, behave, and react.

“When we use simple, training techniques that have been validated by science, we can prevent horses’ fear responses while being handled,” Pearson said. “It only takes a little extra time initially.”

In the study led by Pearson, the team found significant improvement in horses' cooperation during veterinary examinations and treatment when learning theory was applied.

“Two primary techniques can be particularly useful when managing the behavior of difficult horses,” said Pearson. “These are negative reinforcement and overshadowing, which is a distraction technique. In either technique, it is important to keep the horse calm.”

Working with horses can be dangerous for veterinarians, horse owners, and anyone who handles horses. Pearson sees these techniques as part of creating a safer environment. Focusing on horse behavior is key.

"We can teach horses that they can stay calm while being handled," she said.

Pearson is the Senior Clinical Training Scholar in Equine Practice at The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh. She runs the Equine Behaviour Service at the university and has over ten years of experience working with equine behavior cases. She is also the Veterinary Liaison Officer for the International Society of Equitation Science and holds an Associate Diploma in Equitation Science.