Episode 36: Considering Body Dysfunction as a Cause of Bad Behaviour

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This week, we explore how so-called “bad behaviour” in horses is often not behavioural at all. Horses respond to their internal state. If they feel unstable, sore, or restricted, they will try to communicate — sometimes with behaviours we label as "naughty," "lazy," or "resistant." 

What You’ll Learn:

• Why physical discomfort is often overlooked as a root cause of 'bad' behaviour

• How common advice (more pressure, spurs, stronger aids) can escalate the problem

• Why behaviour is communication — and how to listen with your eyes and hands

• Sophie and Raquel share real-world examples where functional movement improving transformed long-standing behavioural challenges 

Before blaming your horse — or yourself we discuss how to pause and consider: 

Could this be physical?

• Who can help assess the horse’s body? (Vet, bodyworker, hoof care, dentist)
• What tools are available to me to solve this problem? (e.g. Use tools like the Sue Dyson ethogram to spot pain)

To learn more about Dr Raquel Butler visit:

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/IntegratedVetherapeutics

Website: https://www.integratedvettherapeutics.com

To learn more about Sophie Vandenberg:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091267906532

Have any questions? Have a topic you would like to hear about?

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