When physioing a young horse, it’s crucial to recognise the value of pacing the therapeutic process. Attempting to tackle all physical issues in one session may seem efficient, but it can actually lead to setbacks, particularly in young horses. This demographic is still developing, both physically and mentally, and overwhelming them with too much in one session can have counterproductive effects.
The Physiology of Young Horses
Young horses are still in the developmental stages, with their musculoskeletal systems undergoing significant growth and changes. According to research published in the Equine Veterinary Journal, the musculoskeletal system in horses matures well into their third year, with significant changes occurring in bone density, joint cartilage, and muscle development during this period (Bryan et al., 2017).
Psychological Considerations
Beyond the physical, young horses are also in a crucial phase of learning and psychological development. A study by McGreevy and McLean (2010) in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior highlights that young horses are particularly sensitive to stress, and negative experiences during training or rehabilitation can have lasting effects on their behavior. Overburdening a young horse with too much in a single session may induce anxiety or fear, which could inhibit their willingness to engage in future therapeutic activities.
The Case for Multiple Sessions
Breaking the therapeutic process into multiple sessions allows for a more gradual and comprehensive approach. As noted in a study from Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice (Clayton, 2013), incremental progress is more effective in achieving lasting results in rehabilitation. Multiple sessions also provide an opportunity to monitor the horse’s response to therapy, adjust techniques as needed, and avoid exacerbating any issues. Moreover, multiple sessions help in building a positive association with therapy. By limiting the duration and intensity of each session, young horses are less likely to experience discomfort or stress, leading to more cooperative and productive therapy sessions in the long run.
Conclusion
In the rehabilitation of young horses, patience and pacing are key. Attempting to address all issues in a single session can lead to physical strain and psychological stress, both of which are detrimental to the horse’s long-term development. By spacing out treatments over multiple sessions, you not only safeguard the horse’s health but also enhance the overall effectiveness of the therapeutic process.
References:
Bryan K, McGivney BA, Farries G, McGettigan PA, McGivney CL, Gough KF, MacHugh DE, Katz LM, Hill EW. Equine skeletal muscle adaptations to exercise and training: evidence of differential regulation of autophagosomal and mitochondrial components. BMC Genomics. 2017 Aug 9;18(1):595.
McGreevy, P., & McLean, A. (2010). Equitation Science: The application of science in training horses. Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, 5(2), 86-91.
Clayton, H.M. (2013). Conditioning sport horses. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 29(1), 173-188. By focusing on gradual progress through multiple sessions, you ensure that young horses receive the care and attention they need without overwhelming them, ultimately leading to better outcomes.
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