Training tips for the ‘Injection Phobic’ horse

This video demonstrates techniques to help horses become more comfortable with handling and potential injections. It focuses on a horse exhibiting extreme fear and avoidance behaviours when approached around the head or neck, likely due to a negative past experience. The video highlights the horse’s fearful reactions, such as rearing, tension, snorting, running backwards, and spinning. It then emphasizes the importance of establishing good general control, including leading, backing up, and responding to pressure.

Key techniques demonstrated include:

• Acceptance (Desensitisation): Getting the horse used to different sensations on its body using items like a bamboo cane or crinkly paper. • Training in an open environment to reduce the feeling of being trapped.
• Distraction: Backing the horse up and bringing him forward during a mock injection.
• Counter conditioning: Using food as a distraction and for positive association during a mock injection. Key Takeaways:
• Addressing injection fear requires a multi-faceted approach: good general handling, desensitisation to various stimuli, and a safe training environment.
• Distraction techniques (controlled movement and food) can be effective during the injection.
• Creating positive associations with injections through counter conditioning can change the horse’s perception over time.