Description

Written by two internationally recognised experts, Equitation Science is the first book to draw together the principles of this emerging field into a much-needed coherent source of information. The goal of equitation science is to enhance our understanding of how horses think and learn, and to use their natural behaviour to train, ride or compete with them in as fair a manner as possible. The welfare consequences of training and competing horses under different protocols are explored. Drawing on traditional and emergent techniques, this book incorporates learning theory into an ethical equine training system suitable for all levels. It also focuses on evidence-based approaches that improve rider safety. Contents: Preface. Acknowledgements. The Quest for Knowledge. Cognitive Ethology. Anthropomorphism. Learning I: Non-associative. Learning II: Associative (Attractive). Learning III: Associative (Aversive). Applying Learning Theory. Training. Horses in Sport and Work. Apparatus. Biomechanics. Unorthodox Techniques. Fight and Flight Responses and Manifestations. Ethical Equitation. The Future of Equitation Science. Glossary of the Terms and Definitions and of Processes Associated with Equitation. References. Index.