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)

🎓 Want to learn more?
Keep an eye out for the upcoming Equine Posture Behaviour Masterclass (a recorded webinar).

Want to join us on our mission to empower horse people across the world with the skills they need to create their horse's best posture... join our next cohort of the Equine Functional Posture Course! 

 https://integratedvettherapeutics.mykajabi.com/ 

  To learn more about Dr Raquel Butler visit:

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

Website: https://integratedvettherapeutics.mykajabi.com/about

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?

Email us at: [email protected]