What really happens when we put a bridle on a horse? Does “bitless” automatically mean kinder, or can it create just as much pressure in different places? And how much responsibility do riders carry when it comes to equipment choices?
In this episode, I sits down with researcher Tracy Bye toexplore a growing question in the equestrian world: was's the true impact of riding bitless. Together, we unravel the science behind pressure, movement, and horse welfare, challenging long-held assumptions and opening the door to moreindividualized approaches.
From the hidden dynamics of bridles to the role ofrider balance, this conversation reveals why equestrianpractice must go beyond tradition and start embracing research, responsibility, and the individuality of every horse.
And for those curious about alternatives,stay tuned until the end, Tracy and I dive deep into the physics of hackamores and their hardware, breaking down how these tools actually work, and what riders needto know before using them.
Head shaking in horses is one of the most misunderstood and emotionally challenging conditions horse owners face. In this episode, we explore trigeminal-mediated head shaking, a complex neurological disorder where horses exhibit intense, seemingly unexplained reactions to environmental stimuli.
Our guest, Dr. Veronica Roberts, is a European and RCVS Recognised Specialist in Equine Internal Medicine, Senior Lecturer at the University of Bristol, and one of the world’s leading experts on this condition. With a PhD focused on trigeminal-mediated head shaking, Dr. Roberts brings a rare blend of clinical expertise and compassion to the conversation.
We discuss:
What makes trigeminal-mediated head shaking so difficult to diagnose
Common environmental triggers and why nose nets sometimes help
The importance of careful behavioral observation
Why treatment is rarely one-size-fits-all
How research is shaping the future of diagnosis and care
The emotional toll on owners, and the support they need
Whether you’re a veterinarian, a horse owner, or simply someone who wants to understand more about equine welfare, this episode offers science-backed insights, practical considerations, and heartfelt perspective.
This conversation delves into the complexities of pain perception in horses, exploring how individual differences in personality can influence their behavior and expression of pain. The discussion highlights the importance of accurate pain assessment in veterinary care and the evolutionary factors that shape how horses respond to pain. By comparing pain responses in horses and dogs, the conversation emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of equine behavior and welfare. Carrie Ijichi discusses her research on how personality traits influence physiological responses to pain, the importance of measuring stress through various indicators, and the implications of these findings for animal welfare practices. The conversation also highlights the challenges of studying animal behavior and the need for more comprehensive research to improve the understanding of how animals cope with pain and stress.
In this episode of the EquiScience Podcast, Kym Griffin discusses the critical yet often overlooked topic of sleep deprivation in horses. With a background in equine science, Kym shares insights from her research on horse sleep patterns, the importance of REM and NREM sleep, and the implications of sleep deprivation on horse welfare. The conversation also delves into the symptoms of sleep deprivation, the distinction between narcolepsy and sleep deprivation, and the need for better education and monitoring of equine sleep behaviors to enhance overall horse management and welfare. This conversation delves into the critical role of sleep in equine health and performance, exploring how sleep deprivation affects horses, the importance of herd integration, and strategies for optimizing sleep. Kym Griffin shares insights from her research on monitoring sleep patterns, the implications of sleep on equine welfare, and future research directions in the field. The discussion emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to horse care, considering environmental factors, bedding, and social dynamics to enhance sleep quality and overall well-being.
In this episode of the EquiScience Podcast, Dr. Michelle Anderson from the Michelle Method, shares her journey from a horse-loving child to a doctor of physical therapy and certified equine rehabilitation therapist. She discusses the importance of understanding the differences between modality-based and exercise-based rehabilitation, emphasizing the need for progressive training to prevent injuries in both horses and riders. The conversation also explores the concepts of rehab versus prehab, highlighting the proactive approach of prehab in maintaining equine health. Dr. Anderson stresses the interconnectedness of horse and rider health, advocating for a holistic approach to training and rehabilitation. She highlights the significance of groundwork and movement in preparing horses for riding. Michelle advocates for a team approach involving veterinarians and therapists to ensure effective rehabilitation and long-term soundness in horses.
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In this podcast episode, Dr. Kate Workman, an equine veterinarian, shares her journey in the equine industry, discussing her transition from traditional equine practice to a focus on functional medicine. We delve into the complextopic of Pre-purchase exams and what that can look like in different situations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding lameness, the nuances of pre-purchase exams, and the complexities of diagnosing and managingdifferent pathologies in horses. Dr. Workman highlights the need for effective communication between veterinarians and horse owners to ensure the best outcomes for equine health and performance. The discussion also touches on the genetic aspects of ECVM, its prevalence in horse populations, and the challenges faced in veterinary practices regarding diagnosis and management. Dr Workman advocates for better breeding practices to mitigate these health issues in horses. In this conversation, we delve into the complexities of equine care, focusing on functional medicine and the holistic approach to horse management. They discuss the importance of understanding a horse's environment, behavior, and the owner's role in the horse's health. Behavioral issues in horses are explored, emphasizing the connection between a horse's mental state and its physical health. The discussion also touches on the significance of early training and the impact of a horse's upbringing on its behavior and health, the impact of racing on thoroughbreds, and the importance of understanding a horse's training history. Additionally, Kate shares valuable lessons learned from necropsies, highlighting the stoicism of horses and the interconnectedness of their health issues.
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In this episode of the EquiScience podcast, I sit down with Dr. Audrey Langlois to explore the fascinating world of equine dentistry. She shares her journey into the field, from her education to hands-on experiences, and explains why dental care is essential for a horse’s overall health.
We dive into key topics like the anatomy of horse teeth, common dental issues, and how proper mouth movement impacts a horse’s mobility. Dr. Langlois walks us through the dental exam process, highlighting what owners should look for, the role of veterinarians, and what questions to ask to ensure the best care for their horses.
We also discuss the techniques used in equine dentistry, including the importance of sedation, the use of speculums for safe and effective treatment, and the differences between manual and electric floating. Plus, we explore the critical role of nutrition in maintaining strong, healthy teeth.
This episode is packed with expert insights and practical advice—so whether you're a horse owner, trainer, or just a fellow horse nerd, you won’t want to miss it!
In this episode of the EquiScience Podcast, I’m joined by Celeste Lazaris, an experienced horse trainer and bodyworker and the founder of The Balance Through Movement Method, to discuss her journey in the equine world. We dive into her transition from traditional training methods to a more holistic approach that focuses on understanding pain in horses and how it influences their behavior. Celeste explains the science behind nerve compression, the importance of soft contact and proper communication, and critiques common training tools like the Pessoa system. We also touch on how breeding impacts performance, the balance of strength and mobility in training, and the psychological aspects of horsemanship. In addition, we explore injury prevention, the challenges of navigating the veterinary world, and the emotional aspects of end-of-life decisions for horses. Throughout, Celeste emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to equine health, considering both the physical and mental well-being of the horse.
How to get in touch with Celeste!
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The Equitopia Center for courses on evidence based horsmanship and equine management.
In part 2 of my conversation with the team from Mad Barn, we explore the complexities of equine nutrition and their mission to educate and empower horse owners. We discuss the importance of scientific accuracy, critical thinking, and balancing anecdotal evidence with research.
The conversation highlights the challenges of managing equine health, the role of proper nutrition, and the need for ongoing advancements to support horse welfare.
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In this episode of the EquiScience podcast, I sit down with the team from Mad Barn—Priska, Fran, and Scott—to dive deep into the fascinating world of equine nutrition. We discuss the unique digestive systems of horses and highlight just how critical forage quality is. I loved exploring the nutritional needs of performance horses, the role of supplements, and ways to spot nutritional deficiencies.
We also tackled some common myths in equine nutrition, unpacked the importance of understanding conditions like insulin resistance and PSSM, and talked about how to test for them. Plus, we debated the pros and cons of natural versus synthetic nutrients. To wrap things up, I got to hear some inspiring success stories and share thoughts on why more research in equine nutrition is so important.
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In this episode, I chat with Jackie Jolie about red light therapy—its benefits, science, and uses for both humans and animals. Jackie shares her journey into the field, inspired by her own battle with Lyme disease, and discusses her company, Equisol, and its innovative products for animal therapy. We dive into the importance of wavelengths, localized vs. systemic treatments, and how red light therapy compares to other modalities like massage and acupuncture. Jackie also shares inspiring stories, including a paralyzed dog regaining mobility, and highlights the need for education, quality products, and preventative care in equine health.
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In this episode of the EquiScience podcast, I with Mary Dittman from the University of Zurich about the effects of half pads on the horse's comfort, particularly in relation to saddle fit. We discuss the importance of proper saddle fitting, the methodology and findings of a study on various half pads, and the implications for horse owners. The conversation emphasizes the individuality of each horse and rider, the challenges in product testing, and the need for informed consumer choices in equestrian equipment. We discuss the challenges of understanding horse preferences and the evolving relationship between horses and humans in the context of equestrianism. The conversation highlights the need for better communication with horses and the potential for education to improve equine welfare globally.
Videos on how to recognize back pain in the ridden horse
https://uzh.mediaspace.cast.switch.ch/media/Rueckenweh_EN/0_2o7sqk0m
https://uzh.mediaspace.cast.switch.ch/media/Sattelpassform_EN/0_9qd2tv6v
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In this conversation, Louisa & I explore the concept of consent in equestrian sports, emphasizing its importance in building healthy relationships with horses. We discuss the emotional and psychological aspects of consent, the spectrum of yes and no, and the significance of understanding one's own boundaries. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight the challenges faced in equestrian training and the necessity of support and help in navigating these experiences. The discussion aims to shift the perspective on consent from a binary understanding to a more nuanced, embodied approach that respects autonomy and fosters growth. This conversation delves into the intricate dynamics of building trust and resilience in relationships, particularly in the context of horse training. We explore the importance of understanding comfort zones, navigating trainer relationships, emphasize the empowerment that comes from allowing both horses and people to express their boundaries and needs, ultimately fostering a more positive and collaborative training environment. The dialogue highlights the need for empathy, respect, and adaptability in equestrian practices, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate approach to horse training and care.
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In this conversation, Dr. Adrian Harrison discusses his journey in the field of biomechanics and the importance of proprioception in understanding equine movement. He explains the significance of myofascial kinetic lines and how they relate to muscle function and asymmetries in horses. The discussion also covers the innovative use of acoustic myography as a non-invasive method to measure muscle activity, emphasizing the need for better scientific approaches in equine welfare and training. Dr. Harrison advocates for a future where science and equestrian sports intersect to improve animal welfare and performance.
Read the full study:
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This is an emergency episode to touch on the trending article from Horse & Hound reporting on the recent study claiming Double Bridles exert more pressure on the nasal bone than Snaffle Bridles. Here i attempt to explain why these results should be taken with a grain of salt and the importance of exerting causion when reading a study like this. I also go over some key points of the recent FEI stakeholder meeting that took place October 1st, 2024.
How confident are you in the quality of the products you buy at your local tack store? What kind of quality control goes into getting equestrian gear on the market? Are there standards and regulations that ensure the safety and durability of the equipment we use on our horses? In this episode, I chat with product tester Cleo Murphy about the industry standards for equestrian gear and how consumers can play a crucial role in holding brands accountable for the quality of their products.
Fox Valley Equestrian
In today's episode, we talk with Louise Evans about her recently published article : Whoa, No-Go : Evidence consistent with model-based strategy use in horses during inhibitory task, co-authored by Heather Cameron-Whytock and Carrie Ijichi. After click-baty headlines came out about this novel research, the equestrian community was left a bit confused about what we know of equine behavior and cognitive function. Louise is here to set the record straight!
Have any questions about her study?
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Louise-Evans-6
louise.evans2020@my.ntu.ac.uk
Hi everybody! Welcome to the podcast. Today we are going through a general introduction to what you can expect from this podcast and a little bit of context on how I got to where I am. And obviously it starts with that one horse who changed my life! Hope you enjoy the journey!