Fostering Emotional Resilience in Reactive Equids: Harnessing the Power of Environmental Enrichment with Mary Richards
Webinar Description
In this presentation, I will describe how enriched environments can positively impact the expression of fearful and reactive behaviors in equines.
The management of domestic horses diverges from their natural habitat and behavioral requirements. Confined spaces such as small stalls and regulated feedings limit opportunities for movement and diminish natural foraging behaviors, potentially affecting the well-being of the horses. Enrichment initiatives aim to promote mental engagement and facilitate activities that align with their species-typical behavior patterns. Evidence suggests that, alongside the rise in natural behaviors observed in horses within enriched environments, there can also be reduced intensity and frequency of undesirable behavior patterns such as fearfulness and reactivity.
I will discuss several enrichment strategies and techniques that can potentially positively impact the welfare of equines, particularly those that are fearful and overly reactive to their environments.
Learning Objectives
- Learn how enrichment can positively impact equids
- Understand how enrichment should engage and facilitate species-typical behavior patterns
Your Presenter – Mary Richards
Mary Richards is an expert in animal behavior, with a particular focus on equines. With over 15 years of experience as a zookeeper, Mary honed her skills in behavioral and environmental enrichment, developed keen observational abilities, and fostered a deep-seated passion for improving animal welfare.
In her subsequent role as an Equine Zoological Manager, Mary was instrumental in developing and implementing comprehensive enrichment programs for a large population of over 150 horses. Her work in this capacity underscored her commitment to enhancing the well-being of equines through innovative enrichment strategies.
Mary’s dedication to animal welfare extends beyond her professional endeavors. She is the proud owner of Bird, a 22-year-old Belgian Draft mare who benefits from Mary’s expertise and compassionate care.
Driven by a mission to improve the lives of equines, Mary actively educates horse owners and equine facilities about the importance of enrichment. Her goal is to create a better world for horses through knowledge-sharing and advocacy.
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