"Just like humans each animal has different personality traits and these can have a marked effect during the mating season. Understanding this can make a considerable difference to a stud's breeding programme - sometimes affecting the success rate by as much as 20 percent.

"Traditionally when a mare and stallion are introduced there can be just a 50 to 60 percent chance that a foal will result. Yet lack of success is expensive, time consuming and frustrating, especially when no physiological cause can be attributed.

"A bespoke behavioural audit which results in a detailed report and assistance with the remedial programme could make a considerable difference to stud finances and to the welfare of the animals concerned."

"There can be myriad reasons why mating may fail, including lack of libido on the part of the stallion or stress affecting the mare's willingness to co-operate. However, each case is unique and the techniques required to solve the problem will be needed in varying combinations."