Equine Research Foundation

Nature of Research/Program Description: 

The purpose of the nonprofit Equine Research Foundation is to further scientific and public knowledge about the learning abilities of horses, and their behavior, training, care and welfare.

The Equine Research Foundation supports noninvasive research aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the learning, cognitive and perceptual capabilities of horses. The study of cognition is concerned with the mental processes, representations and skills involved in thinking and learning.

Researchers at the Equine Research Foundation are finding that horses have more advanced cognitive abilities than was previously thought and can solve complex problems. These noninvasive studies, which are based on positive reinforcement, show that horses are thinking creatures that respond best to humans who acknowledge their minds and emotions.

Participants learn about and assist with all phases of the research and gain a deeper understanding of how our findings apply to daily interactions with horses as well as training and handling.

Contact: Jerry Ingersoll

Keywords: research; non-invasive; horses, equine; learning; cognitive; perceptual capabilities; positive reinforcement

Location: 
Off-campus
Location Details: 
Aptos, CA
Program Time Period: 
Summer
Compensation: 
Academic Credit
Volunteer
Details: 
Academic credit possible; Fee required for some positions
Contact: 
Jerry Ingersoll
Contact Title: 
Program Director
Contact Email: 
EquiResF@aol.com
Reports/Articles/Videos: 
Major(s): 
Biology
Cognitive Science
Ecology and Evolution
Environmental Studies
Neuroscience