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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.

EQUISOL website

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WATCH THE WEBINAR : Fact-Checking the Equine Industry

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.

Read the study : CLICK HERE

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.

Reach Louisa HERE

her podcast

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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:

The Efficacy of Intermittent Long-term Bell Boot Application for the Correction of Muscle Asymmetry in Equine Subjects

International Society for Equitation Science

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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.

Rein tension study

FEI action plan

ISES article

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

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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://x.com/louiseevans2020

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Louise-Evans-6

[email protected]

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!