Does Experience Make Hucul Horses More Resistant to Stress? A Pilot Study

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Breeding programs dedicated to some horse breeds require the application of performance tests, which can be a source of stress exerting a negative impact on the welfare of these animals. By monitoring the level of stress with non-invasive methods, factors that reduce welfare and are not indispensable in horse breeding and use can be eliminated. An attempt was made to investigate whether the age and the number of starts in championships contribute to horses’ experience and therefore increase their resistance to stress. The results of the tests conducted on Hucul mares who participated in the Polish Championships for Hucul Horse showed an increase in cortisol levels in all mares after each element of the championship. Age and a higher number of horse starts did not result in increased resistance to stress accompanying the competition. ABSTRACT: The aim of the study was to determine whether experience related to horse age and number of starts in championships influences stress level, measured by salivary cortisol concentration. The study involved 18 clinically healthy Hucul mares who participated in the Polish Championships for Hucul Horses. Evaluation of performance value was carried out in accordance with the guidelines specified in the breeding and genetic resources conservation program for this breed. The championship lasted two days, consisting of conformation evaluation, endurance, and Hucul path. Saliva was collected at baseline (T1), after arena assessment (T2), after endurance (T3), and on the second day after the Hucul path (T4). Cortisol levels increased from an average of 2.73 ± 1.18 ng/mL (T1) to 10.46 ± 8.03 ng/mL after T3. Significantly lower levels of free cortisol were detected in the saliva of the younger mares, up to 9 years old, and mares who participated in only one qualifying path after each element of the championship. The highest levels of cortisol (T3) were found in mares competing repeatedly on the qualifying path. No correlation was found between cortisol levels and the championship results. Participation of mares in the championship was associated with stress, which was reflected in the increase in cortisol levels in saliva.