Sue Dyson video about the 24 behaviors (more in depth)

I thought I would share this here. I know most of us are familiar with the 24 behaviors now but she’s been putting out these videos that go a little more in depth. I thought it was interesting.

6 Likes

^^^ This is awesome! The link to the free checklist is also a great tool to keep on hand. I think MANY horses are in pain/discomfort to some degree, and most of us have been raised to think the horse is “being a jerk” or “has my number”. When in actuality they are trying their darnedest to please while uncomfortable. Not until it is unbearably obvious do their outward signs add up and their human partner notices…or not :frowning:

5 Likes

Totally! I’m happy to say that my horse with kissing spine and wonky stifles (in continuous rehab/physical therapy to maintain) shows very, very little signs of discomfort while ridden (if any, most times) and as the video shows, sometimes it’s actually from us riders or the difficulty of an exercise. It’s a good guide to have on hand. I’ve always been very sensitive to how horses act and stuff (drive many trainers and vets bonkers but I usually am spot on!) It’s great to have some science to back at all up! :slight_smile:

3 Likes

Is that the list that includes the horse being behind the vertical for more than a few strides, and also the horse being in front of the vertical for more than a few strides?

I’ve been noticing my uncomfortable senior has been holding his face on the vertical during our handwalks (with loose lead rope).

1 Like

There are other videos with Dr Dyson and I’ve found value in all I’ve watched:
https://www.youtube.com/@TrainwithTrustProject

2 Likes

I just spent 2 days listening to her speak (and show videos to illustrate her remarks).
She is amazing.

4 Likes

She said that her list is not all inclusive. Some horses will show other signs that are more uncommon.

2 Likes

Yes! That part is odd in the list bit I think if you watch a few videos, it’s more about extremely hollow/avoiding the bit imo, rather than slightly in front of the vertical. or that’s what I got after watching a few videos.

I find the criteria of 8 or more symptoms mean pain, interesting. If you read through the whole 24, having 8 of those behaviors would seem obvious to me something is wrong but I guess not to everyone? And I think since it’s for ridden horses, they are accounting for rider influences as well.

Editing to add, I think a horse keeping it’s neck rigid during hand walking definitely sounds like discomfort though. I think this list is more geared towards ridden work. That’s my understanding.