ABSTRACT
Animals are not simply hairier versions of humans. Reacting to animals as if they are humans is called anthropomorphism, and anthropomorphism is not effective in establishing a safe and effective relationship with animals. Good animal handling is much more complicated. An important foundation for proper animal handling is learning the normal behavior for the species. Knowing the natural instincts of a species is essential to being able to handle, move, and contain them humanely with minimal stress and risk of injury to either the handler or the animals.
This chapter describes prey behavior of large animals and how handlers can be perceived as predators. Establishing social status within a group is discussed as it pertains to animals within a group and how handlers should relate to animals being handled. Critical socialization periods for large animals are covered and flight zones are explained. How special senses (olfaction, hearing, vision, and tactile) affect animal behaviors is included. Resistance behaviors/aggressions are described, including maternal, pain-related, territorial, fear-induced, intermate, and dominance. Also included are species’ differences in aggression and avoidance. Training methods for handling large animals are provided. The effects of health on behavior are reviewed, and stereotypic behavior and environmental enrichment are discussed. The general efficacy of common nutraceuticals on altering behavior is described. The role of animal behavior specialists in dealing with behavior modification of large animals is clarified.
