Acupressure and music therapy in a horse with behavioral disorders

Case Report

Abstract

The aim of this case report was to show the behavioral and physiological responses in horses under integrative treatment with acupressure and music therapy. The case report was conducted at Escola Pegasus Equitação located in Lavras-MG. One animal was selected for exhibiting more intense stereotyped behaviors, such as excessive fears and not accept to be mounted, knocking down riders. This animal showed excessive fear of other animals, noises and tarps. The acupoints used in this study (Yin Tang, VB 21, BE 21, BE 22, BE 23, P 1, VC 17, C 7, PC 6, PC 7, VC 4 e VC 6) were chosen for their performance on stress, fear, behavioral deviations and anxiety. All points were stimulated on both flanks of the animal. In addition to the sessions with acupressure points, music therapy with classical music from the second acupressure session was also included, with the purpose of assisting the relaxation of the animal. At the beginning of the sessions, the animal presented constant irritability, such as lowering of ears and muscle tension, which decreased during treatment. In addition, it was noticeable the increase in behavioral practices that indicate tranquility and decreased anxiety of the patient, such as lowering the neck and closing the eyes during the sessions. It was observed that during most of the period the heart rate and respiratory rate decreased after the sessions. The owner of the animal observed a behavioral improvement in situations that were previously considered unsettling, being the animal calmer every day, no longer running episodes of knocking down riders. It is therefore stated that the treatments performed on the animal were effective in reducing the anxiety state.