Scientists have been saying for some time that music can help us relax. Now they believe animals can enjoy a similar benefit.
French scientists have discovered that classical music has a relaxing effect on horses. This is based on research with 24 animals, who got to listen to parts of the Forest Gump film soundtrack while performing tasks normally considered stressful.
Researchers tested the effect on the music on a group of horses being transported around in a horsebox and another group who were being shod.
“During transport, the diffusion of classical music decreased several stress indicators and induced a faster post-stress heart recovery,” said researcher Claire Neveux.
There was also an improvement in stress levels for the horses getting new shoes, although it was less significant.