Social Nature:
Horses are herd animals, and their natural instinct is to live in a group. When they are isolated or separated from their companions, they can experience anxiety.
Companionship Bonds:
Horses form strong bonds with their herd mates. Separation from a close companion, whether it's another horse or even a different species like a donkey, can trigger anxiety.
Fear of Predators:
In the wild, horses rely on safety in numbers to protect themselves from predators. When isolated, they may feel vulnerable and anxious.
Environmental Changes:
Moving a horse to a new environment, such as a new stable or pasture, can cause stress and anxiety as they adjust to their surroundings and the absence of familiar companions.
Weaning:
Foals often experience separation anxiety when weaned from their mothers. The abrupt separation from the mare can be emotionally challenging for both the foal and the dam and can have a lasting impact.
Lack of Routine:
Horses are creatures of habit, and sudden changes in routine, feeding schedules, or exercise routines can contribute to anxiety.
Past Trauma:
Horses that have experienced previous traumatic events, such as abuse, grief or accidents during transport, may be more prone to separation anxiety.
Health Issues:
Pain or discomfort due to underlying health issues can contribute to anxiety when a horse is separated from its herd or usual routine as they feel more vulnerable.
Inadequate Socialisation:
Horses that have not been properly socialised from a young age may struggle more with separation anxiety. Socialisation helps them develop confidence, adaptability and bonds.
Genetic Predisposition:
Some horses may have a genetic predisposition to anxiety, making them more susceptible to stress when separated from their companions.
One with the Horse supports horses who experience separation anxiety through getting to know and understand the individual horse's needs. Empowering the horse through enrichment activities, communication and play, to help them process and shift negative supressed emotions, bringing relaxation, calm, contentment and happiness.
Click on the links below to read how 'horse empowerment sessions' has helped them with their separation anxiety:
You can support your horse through work on enrichment, gradual desensitisation, positive reinforcement, and providing a secure and stimulating environment. Consulting with a veterinarian, a professional horse behaviourist or trainer can also be beneficial in managing and resolving separation anxiety issues in horses.