What does a “good life” really look like for a showjumping horse, and how can coaching methods support both equine welfare and rider decision-making under pressure?

In this episode of the Animalweb podcast, Helen Stock is joined by British Showjumping coaches Natasha Andrews and Richard Seals, following their research presentations at the BSAS Equine Conference. Drawing directly on their Master’s-level research, the conversation bridges real-world coaching practice with emerging evidence on welfare, learning, and performance.

Natasha explores how showjumping coaches assess and promote a good life for the horse during training sessions, revealing strong welfare awareness but also gaps in formal education on equine learning theory, mental wellbeing, and ethical decision-making. Her findings raise important questions about social licence, duty of care and the emotional challenges coaches face when performance pressures clash with welfare values.

Richard’s research focuses on positive pedagogy and game-based coaching approaches, examining how supportive learning environments help riders develop confidence, adaptability and better decision-making in the arena. He explains why encouraging riders to think for themselves, reflect positively and problem-solve under pressure is not only vital for performance, but also for horse welfare and long-term partnership success.

Together, this episode offers valuable insights for coaches, riders and anyone interested in the future of equestrian sport. It challenges traditional coaching norms, highlights the importance of evidence-based practice, and shows how thoughtful coaching can improve outcomes for both horse and rider.

If you care about welfare, performance and developing confident, ethical equestrian partnerships, this is an episode well worth listening to.

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Bioresonance (sometimes called bio-energetic therapy or bio-frequency therapy) is an alternative or complementary therapy based on the idea that every cell, tissue, or organ in the body emits its own electromagnetic frequency or “vibration.” 

Devices are sold for placement on the skin (or, for animals, sometimes attached to the coat), and the devices measure electrical signals, analyse their “frequencies,” and emit counterfrequencies supposedly intended to cancel or correct the imbalance.

With her characteristic clarity and curiosity, Gillian explores why bioresonance sounds plausible in theory. She also discusses legitimate areas of electromagnetic therapy, such as PEMF and photobiomodulation, and calls for proper research to separate real physiological effects from pseudoscientific claims.

Whether you’ve seen these devices online, been recommended one, or are simply curious about the science behind them, this episode is an essential listen for any evidence-minded equestrian or therapist.

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In this conversation, Dr David Marlin speaks with Annie Price, who runs a riding school in Somerset. They discuss the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment for riders, particularly those with mental health challenges. Annie shares her experiences of fostering individual growth in riders, addressing bullying, and the cultural differences in equestrian training between Germany and the UK. They emphasise the need for leadership in riding schools to cultivate a happy atmosphere for both riders and horses, and explore innovative teaching methods that prioritise enjoyment and personal development over competition.

Discussion Points:

• Creating a supportive environment is crucial for rider development.
• Cultural differences impact the approach to equestrian training.
• Individual growth should be prioritised over competition.
• Mental health awareness is essential in riding schools.
• Leadership plays a key role in shaping the culture of riding schools.
• Innovative teaching methods can enhance the learning experience.
• Building a community fosters confidence and camaraderie among riders.
• Addressing bullying promptly is necessary for a healthy environment.
• Happy riders contribute to the well-being of horses.
• A positive atmosphere leads to a thriving equestrian business.

Find out more about YardWise - yardwise.co.uk

In an industry so vital to equine welfare, yard owners are too often left to figure things out alone. With rising costs, growing client demands, and no real regulation or support, it’s no wonder many feel overwhelmed. YardWise was created to change that.

It’s not just a day out—it’s a practical, in-person event offering real guidance, expert insights and workshops, and a space to connect with others facing the same challenges. From legal and employment advice to welfare and business best practices, it’s tailored for livery yard, riding school, and equestrian centre owners who want to do better—and stand out for it.

Whether you're just starting or have run a yard for years, YardWise is your chance to learn, connect, and be part of a movement that’s raising the standard and protecting the future of the industry.

Join the Yard Owners who have already bought their tickets... Limited tickets available on a first come, first served basis.

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In this relaxed conversation, expert vet and rider biomechanics specialist Maria Terese Engel joins Animalweb to discuss her groundbreaking research into rider asymmetry and movement patterns. Drawing on her unique background in both veterinary medicine and ballet, Maria shares insights from her current studies and the upcoming international launch of the Rider in Balance Academy.

She explains how improving rider awareness and technique off the horse can dramatically change riding performance in just six weeks. From Olympic riders to grassroots amateurs, Maria’s methods centre on building precise body awareness and correcting long-held movement habits. This episode is packed with practical takeaways, especially for anyone striving to ride more sympathetically, improve balance, or avoid unnecessary pressure on the horse.

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In this special episode of the Animalweb podcast, Helen Stock is joined by Amanda Watson (Equestrian Index) and Cheryl Johns (LiveryList) to introduce YardWise, a brand-new event tailored specifically for livery yard and riding school professionals. The event, taking place on 19 November 2025 at Warwick Trident College, Leamington Spa, is designed to be practical, collaborative, and solution-focused, offering attendees a rare chance to access top industry experts in one place.

Helen, Amanda, and Cheryl share the story behind YardWise, a collaborative effort driven by a shared passion for supporting yard owners and addressing the real-world challenges they face. From welfare and insurance to biosecurity, legal guidance, employment, sustainability, and communication skills, YardWise will tackle the everyday issues that affect yard businesses, with expert-led roundtables and tailored support.

• 📍 Location: Warwick Trident College, Leamington Spa
• 📅 Date: 19 November 2025
• 💷 Price: £95 (includes lunch, refreshments, and all workshops)
• 🎓 CPD: BHS Accredited Professionals receive 6 CPD points
• 🔗 Tickets & Info: yardwise.co.uk

• Not a conference – a workshop-based experience: No long lectures. Attendees will join small group roundtables with leading experts to discuss the issues that matter most to them.
• Bring your pain points: YardWise is designed to provide real solutions. Attendees are encouraged to arrive with 3–4 key problems they want to solve.

Expert line-up includes:

• Dr David Marlin & Amanda Stoddart-West (Welfare & Welfare Stewarding)
• Rebecca Stojak (Equine Solicitor – Geldards)
• Nick de Brauwer & Helen Whitelig (Redwings)
• SEIB Insurance Team
• Lizzie Herron (Equestrian Leadership & Communication)
• Lucy Catan MBE (Code of Good Employment)
• Claire Shand & Sarah (Worming & Parasite Control)
• Catherine Chapman (Accountancy & VAT)
• White Griffin (Equestrian Environmental Sustainability)
• Gail Eggington (Biosecurity – Ag+)
• Jane Patching & Leanne Kelly (Health & Safety – IMG)
• Livery Live (Yard Tech Solutions)
• British Horse Society (Business Support)

Inclusive and tailored: Relevant for all yard professionals – livery yards, riding schools, mixed yards – no matter your size or experience.

Networking and community-building: A much-needed opportunity for professionals who often work in isolation to connect, learn, and build stronger businesses.

Hospitality by Bedmax & Strawmax: Expect more than a sandwich – attendees will be well looked after!

• Website: YardWise.co.uk
• Facebook: YardWise Facebook Page
• LinkedIn: YardWise on LinkedIn

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Meet Rachel Bean – Vet Nurse, Educator & Global Canine Welfare Advocate

In this episode, we welcome Rachel Bean, a highly experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse, canine first aid trainer, and passionate animal welfare advocate. Rachel joins the Animalweb expert panel and shares her incredible journey, from her early days at the Dogs Trust to working across the globe with street dogs and wildlife detection teams.

We talk about:

• How she helps owners choose the right dog and avoid common behavioural issues
• The importance of proper canine first aid training – and why regulation is urgently needed
• Her international work in places like Thailand, Kenya, Sri Lanka, and the Orkneys
• Her latest project working with anti-poaching sniffer dogs in Zimbabwe
• Her growing passion for wildlife photography
• Her mission to improve animal welfare standards on film and TV sets in the UK

Whether you're a dog owner, pet professional, or just animal curious, this episode is full of useful advice, real stories, and inspiration.

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In this highly relevant Animalweb podcast, Dr David Marlin is joined by Animalweb's independent bit and bridle fitting expert Emma Busk to unpack the introduction of the new FEI noseband gauge, now in use on the international competition circuit. Together, they explore what the measure means in practice, why it has been introduced, and how riders, stewards, and horse owners are reacting to it.

Emma, who has worked with both the FEI and ISES gauges, shares her practical experience using the new tool and highlights some of the challenges around consistency, fit, and application across different types of nosebands and horse sizes. She and David discuss whether the gauge goes far enough in protecting horse welfare, and what more could be done.

Beyond the gauge, they delve into the broader topic of bit and bridle fitting, exploring why it matters, its impact on performance, and how to assess fit both in the stable and under saddle. Emma emphasises that every horse is different and that correct fit can’t be judged by looks alone. They touch on the importance of collaboration between vets, dentists, physios and fitters, and how past trauma or pain can affect a horse’s response to tack.

The episode closes with some top tips for checking noseband fit and an honest conversation about pressures in the competition world, rider habits, and the myths around stronger bits.

READ Emma's blog - Noseband Tightness in International Sport

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Dr Heather Cameron-Whytock recently joined the Animalweb Team to tell us about her recently published study - Equine Fatalities In Eventing.

This was originally recorded as a webinar that will be available to watch on AskAnimalweb from Wednesday 11th June.

This conversation delves into Heather and her colleague's recent research on equine fatalities in eventing, highlighting the misconceptions surrounding the risks associated with horse falls. The study reveals that a significant percentage of equine fatalities are due to musculoskeletal injuries and sudden deaths, rather than falls at fences.

To read the published paper - Equine Fatalities In Eventing.

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In this episode, equine physiotherapist Dr Gillian Tabor explores the complexities of recognising pain in horses. From facial expressions and behaviour to the blurred lines between conditions like kissing spines, gastric ulcers and lameness, Gillian dives into the latest research to help you spot the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs that something isn't right.

Whether you’re a horse owner, rider or equine professional, this episode is packed with insights on how horses show pain, why behaviours shouldn't be dismissed as 'naughty', and why thinking pain first could be the most important step in safeguarding your horse’s welfare.

Topics include:

• The science of how horses perceive pain
• Anticipatory vs actual pain behaviours
• Overlapping symptoms across common equine conditions
• Why girthiness isn’t always about the girth
• Key research from Dalla Costa, Dyson, Kumar and more

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In this episode, Dr David Marlin takes us inside the findings of a ground-breaking new research paper titled “Comparison of Rein Forces and Pressure Beneath the Noseband and Headpiece of a Snaffle Bridle and a Double Bridle”, recently published in the journal Animals.

Amidst ongoing public debate and controversy surrounding the use of double bridles in dressage, David shares how this study aimed to put assumptions to the test with science. Working with a team of researchers and high-level dressage horses, the study compared rein tension and pressure at key contact points across both snaffle and double bridles.

David also tackles common misconceptions about bit mechanics, explaining why the curb bit is a class one lever with a floating fulcrum, not the “nutcracker” some claim it to be. He discusses the ethics of research publishing, the importance of evidence-based conclusions, and his hopes for a more flexible and welfare-focused approach to bridle use in sport.

This is a must-listen for anyone interested in equine science, dressage, and horse welfare. The study was funded by Hartpury University and the British Equestrian Federation, and the full paper is freely available online. Follow this link to read more about it - New Study Reveals Similarities in Rein Tension and Noseband Pressure Between Snaffle and Double Bridles

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