Which of the following options is NOT considered a salient reward for a horse in the given context?

In this context, a salient reward is one that is significant and desirable for the horse, typically motivating positive behavior or engagement. The correct answer points to a horse that refuses to eat during a stressful moment, as this indicates a lack of interest or motivation toward food, which is a primary form of reward for many horses. When a horse is stressed, it may not see food as a reward, making it ineffective for reinforcing positive behavior in that moment.

In contrast, the other options illustrate situations where the horse finds value in rewards. A horse that eagerly approaches its owner for treats demonstrates a clear association between the owner and a positive reward. Similarly, a horse that enjoys training sessions with food rewards is engaging positively with the experience, showcasing that the food serves as a motivating factor. Finally, a horse that shows excitement for treats in familiar settings indicates that it recognizes those treats as a desirable reward, reinforcing its behavior positively. Each of these scenarios illustrates the role of rewards in a horse's behavior, while the refusal to eat highlights a disconnect between the horse and the typical motivational reward of food during stress.