Concerned about the frequency of injuries to equine veterinarians, researchers in Scotland sought to determine if the vets understood how horses learn. Vets were asked if they understood positive reinforcement. Eighty-four percent said they did, but only 19 percent were correct when tested. Nearly 80 percent of vets said they understood negative reinforcement, but only 33 percent were correct when tested.
Source: Paulick Report, November 3, 2021. Link.
Horse behavior is seldom taught to vet students. The vet reaction to restrain the horse often reinforces the bad behavior.” – Gemma Pearson, BVMS Cert AVP (EM) MRCVS