Animal welfare in taming and equine dressage

Abstract

Pointing out the equine species, there are numerous studies and regulations on animal welfare. However, the tame process, which is normally critical not only for the welfare, also for the physical and behavioral development of an equine, is an left to empirical knowledge, linked to the culture and the traditions from each región, country ever the world.

An equine correct taming process begins with the early stimulation and socialization at the youngest age possible, followed by the habituation and the exposure to different stimulus, environments and situations. The animal has to learn to “not” react. The pats and massages direct or indirect during the physical contact are really important for habituate and prepare the animal to the following the processes. As well, hydroterapy, could be practices using a stream of wáter coming from a hose or carry the animal to a reflecting pool, having multiple advantages in the tame process.

To avoid the traditional tame practices, which could cause damages to the animal such as the “palenqueada” (tie up to a tethering post) or “tirada de boca” (pulled the snout violently), is practice an appropiate treatment called “leg on the ground” (groundwork), teaching the animal to yield to pressure. This is the base knowledge to make an appropiate rein lebor. To prepare it for the mount, is necessary show gradually the different components which will be used to saddle it (this process in usefull due to the horse will be able to recognize the components through the sense of smell). This components are the reins, the bite, saddle blanket, apron, etc.