PSIV-A-1 Assessment of Equine Acclimation to new Management Using non-Invasive Metrics

Abstract Horses experience stress during transportation, handling, and changes to the environment which result in negative welfare for animal. Finding valid methods measure non-invasively can assist understanding equine welfare. Our objective was investigate a new through non-invasive measures. We hypothesized that horses’ would decrease over time with repeated exposure single handler novel holding stock. Seven horses were introduced farm week of acclimation their stall serve as baseline. Blink rate, thermal imaging, salivary cortisol collected again stock on days 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 28 d 1 being one following arrival farm. rate counted three minutes, then eye temperature left taken using lastly cotton swabs into horse’s mouth 30 seconds each side. Using linear regression, we found blink decreased by 1.7 blinks every day handling (P = 0.001). For degree stall, increased 0.28 degrees Celsius showing potentially higher stocks 0.043). Additionally, 0.09 < 0.01). There no differences 0.43). In conclusion, but time, creating conflicting outcomes. Further studies are needed validate measures implications horse environments.