A new edition of a highly respected textbook and reference in the rapidly emerging field of equitation science. Equitation Science, 2nd Edition incorporates learning theory into ethical equine training frameworks suitable for riders of any level and for all types of equestrian activity. Written by international experts at the forefront of the development of the field, the welfare of the horse and rider safety are primary considerations throughout. This edition features a new chapter on research methods, and a companion website provides the images from Equitation Science in PowerPoint.
Preface vii
Acknowledgements ix
About the Companion Website xi
1 Introduction – The Fascination with Horses and Learning 1
2 Ethology and Cognition 7
3 Anthropomorphism and the Human–Horse Relationship 45
4 Non]associative Learning 59
5 Associative Learning (Attractive stimuli) 81
6 Associative Learning (Aversive stimuli) 101
7 Applying Learning Theory 121
8 Training 151
9 Horses in Sport and Work 191
10 Apparatus 213
11 Biomechanics 235
12 Unorthodox Techniques 261
13 Stress and Fear Responses 273
14 Ethical Equitation 301
15 Research Methods in Equitation Science 313
16 The Future of Equitation Science 331
Glossary of the Terms and Definitions and of Processes Associated with Equitation 339
References 357
Index 393
Paul McGreevy is a Professor of Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare Science at the Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Australia.
Janne Winther Christensen is an Associate Professor at the Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, Denmark.
Uta König von Borstel is a Professor of Animal Husbandry and Biology at the Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Giessen, Germany.
Andrew McLean is one of the world's foremost equine behavioural practitioners and founder of the Australian Equine Behaviour Centre, Australia.
“This is a brilliant and extensive effort at explaining the science behind many common correct and incorrect horsemanship and training techniques. The first half on the science of behavior and learning theory will not be for all readers, but for those who persist, it builds the foundation for the second half where misbehaviors are dealt with from a scientific standpoint. This is an excellent addition to the scientific behavioral literature.”
- Doddy's, 20 April 2012
"...the book is a must for every equine veterinary practice, equine training and teaching institution, and anyone concerned with horses who wants to be involved with their own individual training and development. It is a thought provoking textbook that will help the next generation of horse owners and equine enthusiasts to consider and reconsider their training and development protocols and will provide many others with the knowledge that what they are doing is right – and, more importantly, why it is right. Ultimately this book can only have a positive effect on the welfare of the horse and on the human-equine bond."
- The Vet Journal, December 2011