Evaluation of non-traumatic bonding and learning techniques in two equine breeds during the sensitive learning window

Abstract

Historically, equine production systems in Argentina have employed traditional handling maneuvers for both sires and their offspring. These traditional models are based on a lack of early contact with the neonate, open-field foaling, and operator dominance. Consequently, after weaning, a high percentage of animals with significant genetic value are culled due to overt untameability or irreversible injuries consistent with fear-based responses to the operator's presence.

Non-Traumatic Bonding and Learning Techniques (TVANT, by its Spanish acronym), applied to Criollo foals, facilitated reliable contact between the operator and the foal. Starting this year, Argentine Sport Horse (Silla Argentino) specimens were incorporated at a facility belonging to the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences (FCV) of the National University of La Plata. Both the facilities, the environment, and the breeding system share similarities that categorize them within a semi-extensive production model.

When measuring TVANT based on latency times within the sensitive learning window (LW), the maneuvers yielded heterogeneous results. Certain maneuvers did not produce modifications in latency times, while others showed dissimilar inter-breed behaviors and/or variations in delay within the analyzed period (days 7 and 14 post-birth). Regarding the measurement of physiological variables indicating stress from early operator-foal contact, it can be stated that both body temperature and heart rate exhibited fluctuations throughout the study period (days 7 to 14 post-birth) for both breeds, consistent with values considered normal for this species and age group.