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This video is adapted from 10.3390/ani14050784
Human and horse interactions, according to the literature, are important to animals’ welfare and health. In a previous study, early handing in foals proved to decrease fearfulness and improve manageability and behavioral responses toward humans. In the present study, the researchers investigated the influence of two different types of short-term handling procedures: one more intensive approach (daily touch and rubbing), compared to handling monthly, and one leaving foals undisturbed. Right after weaning, researchers measured the behavioral and physiological responses of all of the foals to new stressful environments, veterinary examen procedures, and unknown persons. Intensive or monthly handling had the same effects on novel stressful situations. Handling young horses, regardless of the timeframe, improved responses to stressful situations and environments. However, handled foals did not seek contact with humans and had an increased neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio profile. The researchers expected the handled foals to be more prompt to face new stressors. However, handling associated with no control of the humans’ actions may not be viewed positively by the young horses. Our results reinforce the need to use physiological parameters, together with behavioral observations, to monitor stress responsiveness and welfare.